Aerobic Biodegradation of Chlorinated Solvents in Unsaturated Soils

by Frederick B. Closmann, Univ of Texas, United States,
Gerald E. Speitel, Jr., Univ of Texas, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Environmental Engineering

Abstract:

A potentially attractive application of methylotrophic bacteria is in the treatment of contaminated, unsaturated soil. Methane and air could be supplied by injection and withdraw wells, thereby stimulating the growth of indigenous methylotrophs. This research represents an initial investigation of the feasibility of such an approach. Several different soils were studied to determine appropriate environmental conditions for chlorinated solvent biodegradation and to measure biodegradation rates. ¹⁴C-radiolabeled chemicals were used to measure chlorinated solvent biodegradation and to confirm complete conversion to CO₂.

Subject Headings: Soil pollution | Soil treatment | Unsaturated soils | Solvents | Biological processes | Organic compounds | Chemical treatment

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