Protocol for Enhanced in situ Bioremediation Using Emulsified Edible Oil

摘要

Management of groundwater contaminated with chlorinated solvents, perchlorate, and explosives is one of the Department of Defense's (DoD's) greatest environmental challenges. Chlorinated solvents have been used for years in both the military and commercial sectors for cleaning and degreasing many products and equipment including aircraft engines, automobile and truck parts, electronic components, and clothing. Widespread use of these compounds has resulted in impacts to the environment. Because of their physical and chemical properties, most chlorinated solvents are relatively recalcitrant in the subsurface, are more difficult to access once they are in the ground, and take longer to remediate. Similarly, groundwater contaminated with perchlorate has become a major environmental issue for the DoD due to the use, release, and/or disposal of solid rocket fuel and munitions containing ammonium perchlorate. These releases have resulted in extensive contamination of groundwater supplies. Perchlorate is highly soluble in water and poorly sorbs to mineral surfaces. The objective of this protocol is to provide guidance on the use of emulsified edible oils for enhanced 'in situ' anaerobic bioremediation. Edible oils have been applied at more than 60 commercial and military sites nationwide. Although emulsified oils are well demonstrated in the laboratory and the field, this technology continues to evolve. This protocol is based on the current state of practice at the time of writing.