Effects of Aquifer Environmental Factors on Biodegradation of Organic Contaminants.

摘要

New Mexico aquifers are contaminated with a wide variety of organic compounds. Benzene and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA) are frequently detected and represent two major structural contaminant classes, aromatic and chlorinated aliphatic organic compounds. Important environmental effects on the biodegradation of these two compounds were examined in laboratory batch incubations of regional aquifer material with 14C-radiolabelled benzene and TCA. Redox status, changes in redox conditions, and long and short pre-exposure periods were investigated for their effects on complete biodegradation as indicated by 14CO2 generation over time. Additional variables which were quantified include residual organics in aquifer material, residual volatile organics and 14CO2 incorporated into microbial biomass.