Biodegradation of Chemicals at Trace Concentrations
Abstract
New theoretical kinetic models for microbial biodegradation were developed based on growth and enzyme kinetics. These model were validated using individual bacterial cultures, and then they were applied to the kinetics of mineralization in waste water, fresh waters and soils. The observations on samples from these environments were in line with the theory. A conceptual model was also developed suggesting the existence of a threshold concentration below which growth-dependent mineralization will not occur, and the threshold level was verified with individual bacteria. Models were also devised and then tested for the simultaneous biodegradation of two organic chemicals present at low concentrations. Anomalies were found in the biodegradation of these low levels of organic compounds. Kinetics were tested for the cometabolism of toxic chemicals in fresh waste waters. Reasons for the frequent failure of microbial inoculation to enhance biodegradation in natural environments were established. It was shown that the acclimation period prior to active biodegradation in waste water may be a result of protozoan grazing on the populations of mineralizing bacteria. Keywords: Groundwaters; Pollutants; Soil decontamination, Surface waters; and Water pollution.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 30, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA168922
Entities
People
- Martin Alexander
Organizations
- Cornell University