Biodegradation of 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) by the Microbes and Their Synergistic Interactions

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) is a prominent environmental pollutant due to its widespread use in military, industrial, and mining activities. Numerous documented physical and chemical abiotic treatment technologies for its disposal exist, but microbial remediation emerged as a green substitute for TNT disposal administration proficiently and ecologically. This chapter systematically examines the biotic conversion and diminution of TNT through microbial degradation, focusing on bacterial breakdown and the synergistic interaction of microbes and TNT in this process. We analyze the biochemical pathways and mechanisms employed by various bacteria in TNT degradation, highlighting the role of enzymes and metabolic intermediates. This chapter aims to provide a detailed discussion of TNT attenuation through microbes in both aerobic and anaerobic environments in the aqueous and soil strata. Additionally, it comprehends the strength of microbial strains in isolation, consortium, and under immobilized conditions. Furthermore, the synergistic interaction of microbes is explored, emphasizing their potential for accelerating the biotransformation of TNT. Additionally, we discuss the factors influencing bacterial degradation. This chapter focuses on the comprehensive discussion of TNT attenuation through microbial remediation, covering degradation mechanisms, microbial strains, and treatment arrangements.