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Changes in structure and adsorptive behavior of dissolved fulvic acid mediated by ground-water microorganisms. Technical report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5895851

Degradation of a ground water supply can follow the introduction of xenobiotics onto the soil surface overlying the aquifer. It is clear that dissolved organic matter (DOM) or fulvic acid (FA), are present in aquifers and surface waters. The degree to which the DOM can enhance the transport of either organic chemicals or metals is unclear. This altered solubility may be significant enough to allow rapid movement of otherwise low solubility chemicals through soil to ground water or within an aquifer. The microbial population is a remedial force in controlling the fate of pesticides. The size and status of the microbial biomass, or population, in either soil or ground water is a direct reflection of the supply of available nutrients. The authors' efforts are aimed at understanding the significance of the DOM in controlling both the size of the microbial biomass and the type of bacteria making up the biomass. The objectives of the research conducted during the year were the following: isolate a population of bacteria capable of utilizing fulvic acid and measure microbial growth, and define the structural changes in fulvic acid when it serves as a carbon and energy source for microbial growth in flow-through culture systems.

Research Organization:
Purdue Univ., Lafayette, IN (United States). Water Resources Research Center
OSTI ID:
5895851
Report Number(s):
PB-92-117712/XAB; TR--191
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English