Biodegradation of Propylene Glycol-Based MIL-A-8243D Aircraft Deicer.
Abstract
Biological degradation of propylene glycol in propylene glycol-based MIL-A-8243D aircraft deicer was investigated under conditions designed to simulate degradation in the environment. Shake flask, static flask, and static culture tube experiments were conducted using water from Westover Air Force Reserve Base (AFRB) and Buckley Air National Guard Base (ANGB). Degradation in water from Westover AFRB was limited by phosphorous availability. Phosphorous from the phosphate buffer in the deicer accelerated degradation relative to pure propylene glycol. Degradation in flasks receiving supplemental nitrogen and phosphorous was rapid, and propylene glycol depleted within 6 days. Water from Buckley ANGB was more limited in nitrogen than phosphorous, and propylene glycol degradation for both deicer and pure propylene glycol was slow. Addition of supplemental nitrogen in the form of ammonia resulted in markedly higher degradation rates. Additional information on contaminant levels in and characteristics of runoff is needed to support future research. Information on the additives in commercial deicers, which is usually proprietary, is needed for evaluating potential environmental impacts and performing any needed research. Additional research on metabolites and intermediates of propylene glycol degradation would be particularly indicated if difficulties are encountered in reducing BOD and COD to acceptable levels in treatment facilities. The production of metabolytes during environmental degradation of propylene glycol should be verified as part of field studies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA344569
Entities
People
- William J. Gooden
Organizations
- Colorado State University