ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the potential for biosurfactants produced by marine microorganisms in combination with nanomaterials to improve the remediation of marine oil spills. Biosurfactants have been the subject of significant research over the last decade due to their distinct advantages over synthetic chemical surfactants, particularly their biocompatibility and biodegradability. Marine-derived biosurfactants have a more comprehensive range of structural, biological, and functional properties than terrestrial and freshwater-derived biosurfactants, offering up an unlimited number of options in diverse industrial applications. In addition, various research investigations utilizing biosurfactant-modified nanomaterials for improved oil-in-sea-water emulsification were highlighted. Marine-derived biosurfactants have the potential to be a viable alternative to chemical dispersants, providing the same oil dispersing and solubilizing capabilities without the chemicals; harmful impacts on aquatic life. Chitosan is chosen because it is derived from chitin, a plentiful natural polymer, which ensures its safety for use in marine oil spill remediation.
