Related Experiment Videos
Pentachlorophenol and phenanthrene biodegradation in creosote contaminated aquifer material
S A Mohammed1, D L Sorensen, R C Sims
1Utah Water Research Laboratory, Utah State University, Logan 84322-8200, USA.
Chemosphere
|June 24, 1998
Summary
Biodegradation of phenanthrene and pentachlorophenol in Libby Superfund Site aquifer samples was studied. Phenanthrene showed 14% mineralization, while pentachlorophenol showed less than 1%, indicating limited biodegradation potential for these contaminants.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Microbiology
- Remediation Technology
Background:
- The Libby Superfund Site in Montana is contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and pentachlorophenol from wood preserving wastes.
- Biodegradation is a promising in-situ treatment for hazardous waste sites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the biodegradation potential of phenanthrene and pentachlorophenol in aquifer samples from the Libby Superfund Site.
- To evaluate the influence of temperature, sampling depth, nutrient addition, and oxygen on biodegradation.
Main Methods:
- A microcosm study using radiolabeled phenanthrene and pentachlorophenol.
- Incubation of aquifer samples under varying conditions for 56 days.
- Measurement of mineralization, volatilization, solvent extraction, and soil binding.
Main Results:
- Phenanthrene mineralization reached 14%, while pentachlorophenol mineralization was below 1%.
- Temperature (10°C vs. 20°C) did not significantly affect phenanthrene mineralization, suggesting microbial acclimation.
- Volatilization was minimal (<2%) for both compounds; most remained solvent-extractable or soil-bound.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradation of phenanthrene is feasible but limited for pentachlorophenol in these aquifer samples.
- Environmental factors like temperature may influence biodegradation rates.
- Further research is needed to optimize remediation strategies for pentachlorophenol contamination.