ISSN:
1476-5535
Keywords:
bioventing
;
biodegradation
;
respirometry
;
inoculation
;
nutrients
;
diesel oil
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
Notes:
Abstract The effects of bioventing, nutrient addition and inoculation with an oil-degrading bacterium on biodegradation of diesel oil in unsaturated soil were investigated. A mesocosm system was constructed consisting of six soil compartments each containing 6 m3 of naturally contaminated soil mixed 1∶1 with silica sand, resulting in a diesel oil content of approximately 2000 mg kg−1. Biodegradation was monitored over 112 days by determining the actual diesel oil content of the soil and by respirometric tests. The best agreement between calculations of degradation rates based upon the two methods was in July, when venting in combination with nutrient addition resulted in degradation rates of 23 mg kg−1 day−1 based on actual oil concentration in the soil and 33 mg kg−1 day−1 calculated from respirometric data. In September, these rates decreased to 9 and 1.4 mg kg−1 day−1, and in October the degradation rates were 5 and 0.7 mg kg−1 day−1 based upon the two methods. The average ambient temperature during the respirometric tests was 14,10 and 2°C in July, September and October, respectively. The combination of venting and nutrient addition resulted in an average residual oil content of the soil of 380 mg kg−1. Neither venting alone nor inoculation enhanced oil degradation. The respiratory quotient averaged 0.40. The oil composition changed following degradation resulting in the unresolved complex mixture constituting up to 96% of the total oil content at the end of the experimental period.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01570070
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