Passively Enhanced In-situ Biodegradation of Chlorinated Solvents
A hydrogen-release compound (HRC) aids the biodegradiation process.
Harding Lawson Associates (HLA) conducted a field demonstration to evaluate in-situ enhanced anaerobic biodegradation of chlorinated solvents using a hydrogen-release compound (HRC). The technology is designed to enhance the natural biodegradation process for a more rapid and complete degradation of the organic contaminants to non-toxic compounds (e.g., ethylene). This article presents the results from a field demonstration that was conducted over an eleven-month period.
HRC is a lactic acid ester. When delivered to the subsurface, lactic acid, which has been shown to be an effective electron donor, is released continuously into ground water. Because this material can be injected directly into the subsurface, it can be used to deliver nutrients passively and enhance active biodegradation of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (cVOCs).