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Title: Influence of alternative electron acceptors on the anaerobic biodegradability of chlorinated phenols and benzoic acids

Journal Article · · Applied and Environmental Microbiology; (United States)
OSTI ID:6773432
; ;  [1]
  1. New York Medical Center, NY (United States)

Methanogeneic conditions can promote the biodegradation of a number of halogenated aromatic compounds. This study, using sediments from freshwater and estuarine sites, is an evaluation of the anaerobic biodegradability of monochlorinated phenols and benzoic acids coupled to denitrification, sulfidogenesis, and methanogenesis. The results indicate that chlorinated phenols and benzoic acids are biodegradable under at least one set of anaerobic conditions. Metabolism depends both on the electron acceptor available and on the position of the chlorine substituent. Presence of alternative electron acceptors, nitrate, sulfate, and carbonate, can affect degradation rates and substrate specificities. Since contaminated sites usually have mixtures of wastes, bioremediation efforts may need to consider the activities of diverse anaerobic communities to carry out effective treatment of all components. 37 refs., 4 figs., 4 tabs.

OSTI ID:
6773432
Journal Information:
Applied and Environmental Microbiology; (United States), Vol. 59:4; ISSN 0099-2240
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English