Development of Biomarkers for Assessing In Situ RDX Biodegradation Potential
Abstract
The objective was to identify the microorganisms and genes responsible for the biodegradation of RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine) in mixed microbial communities using stable isotope probing, quantitative PCR and high throughput sequencing. The research targeted RDX biodegradation in mixed community samples, as these microbial communities are more representative of those at contaminated sites. The research involved four major projects, the first of which was a literature review. The second task examined the RDX degrading communities in four different soil slurries. The third task examined the microorganisms involved in RDX biodegradation from surface soils from a detonation area at a Navy Base. The fourth task investigated the microorganisms and functional genes (xenA, xenB and xplA) linked to RDX biodegradation at two Navy sites. Several key microorganisms were associated with RDX removal in these mixed communities. These phylogenetic and functional biomarkers will be useful to determine the biological potential for RDX degradation across sites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1025345
Entities
People
- Alison M Cupples
Organizations
- Michigan State University