Development and Evaluation of Application Techniques for Delivery of Nutrients toContaminated Shoreline in Prince William Sound

摘要

The application of nutrients to assist and accelerate naturally occurringbiodegradation processes was studied at field scale on contaminated shoreline in Prince William Sound as part of the effort to recover from the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Selection of fertilizer forms and means to apply the nutrients comprised a major part of the evaluation project. Liquid and solid forms of nutrients were tested. New and innovative application technology was investigated for use under field conditions. Ease of application and cost-effective technology were important selection criteria. Worker protection and environmental-effect concerns served to modify the selection of application technology. Details of application technology selection are presented, difficulties with application and areas for potential research are discussed. Projections for development of application technology to subsurface deposits of stranded oil are made.