Effect of viscosity of nonaqueous-phase liquids (NAPLs) on biodegradation of NAPL constituents

Journal Article · Tue Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1996 · Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.5620151005· OSTI ID:474289

Birman, I; Alexander, M ^[1]

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1. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY (United States)

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of viscosity of nonaqueous-phase liquids (NAPLs) on biodegradation of phenanthrene in soil slurries and to find means to enhance the process in viscous NAPLs. When present in kerosene, diesel fuel, fuel oil, and mixtures of the NAPLs, phenanthrene was biodegraded rapidly. Gasoline alone or in mixtures with other solvents prolonged the acclimation phase and reduced the rate of mineralization of the hydrocarbon. The rate and extent of biodegradation decreased with increasing viscosity of nontoxic NAPLs. The slow mineralization of phenanthrene initially in 150 Bright stock or crude oils was enhanced by vigorous agitation of soil slurries, addition of a nonionic surfactant and delayed inoculation, or increasing the temperature. The data suggest means for enhanced bioremediation of toxicants present in viscous NAPLs.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 474289
• Journal Information: Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Journal Name: Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 15; ISSN ETOCDK; ISSN 0730-7268
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
BIODEGRADATION
HYDROCARBONS
OIL SPILLS
ORGANIC SOLVENTS
REMEDIAL ACTION
SOILS
VISCOSITY