Another in-situ remedial technology is enhanced bioremediation which is also known as enhanced aerobic bioremediation. Natural bioremediation (breakdown) requires the continued presence of bacteria, nutrients, oxygen and moisture whereas enhanced bioremediation is used to accelerate naturally occurring bioremediation of contaminants in the subsurface. Bioremediation provides a supplemental supply of oxygen to bacteria (normally limiting factor). It can increase the rate of contaminant breakdown by several orders of magnitude. Bioremediation also can be applied to both soil and groundwater contamination.
The advantages of enhanced bioremediation are the following:
- Enhances naturally-occurring processes.
- Destroys contaminants in-place.
- Produces no significant wastes.
- Low-energy approach.
- Relatively inexpensive.
- Minimal disturbance to site operations.
- Simple O&M techniques.
- Agency-accepted cleanup technology.
The disadvantages of enhanced bioremediation are the following:
- Longer timeframes.
- Requires long-term monitoring.
- May require permits for injection.
- Extensive knowledge of soil and groundwater chemistry required.
- May not be fully effective on gasoline additives (MTBE).
- May require the addition of nutrients and/or bacteria.
For more information on enhanced bioremediation, contact one of the environmental remediation consulting experts at August Mack Environmental at 800.579.0770.
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