Cost and Performance Report In-Situ Remediation of MTBE Contaminated Aquifers Using Propane Biosparging
Abstract
The objective of the ESTCP-funded project was to demonstrate application of propane biosparging (biostimulation) for in situ remediation of MTBE-contaminated aquifers. The primary objectives of this ESTCP-funded project were (1) to demonstrate the safe application of propane biosparging (i.e., biostimulation ) for in situ remediation of MTBE; and (2) evaluate the ability of propane biosparging to reduce MTBE concentrations in contaminated aquifers to below California Department of Health Services regulatory limit of 5 ug/L. To meet this objective, several secondary objectives were identified as follows: (1) perform microcosm testing to evaluate the ability of indigenous propane oxidizing bacteria and/or other microorganisms to degrade MTBE; (2) select and characterize a field demonstration site; (3) use field characterization and microcosm study data to design, construct and operate a field demonstration system; (4) evaluate performance of the treatment system during a 10-month treatment period; and (5) evaluate the cost of applying the technology at full scale. The project compared MTBE biodegradation in a Test Plot that was amended with propane oxidizing bacteria and treated with oxygen and propane to a Control Plot that received only oxygen. The technology also was evaluated under the USEPA SITE Program as part of the USEPA's MTBE Treatment Technology Verification Program. The demonstration was conducted from May of 2001 to March of 2002.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA515281
Entities
Organizations
- Environmental Security Technology Certification Program