Biodegradation potential of oily sludge by pure and mixed bacterial cultures

► Oily sludge is a petrochemical residue classified as Hazardous Waste. ► Most components of oily sludge are toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic. ► We analyzed the biodegradation capacity of oily sludge by bacterial cultures. ► Bacterial isolates presented high saturated and aromatic hydrocarbon degradation. ► Bacterial consortium showed potential for application in bioremediation processes.