Bioremediation

In-situ bioremediation uses the capacity of bacteria to degrade contaminants at contaminated sites for a better soil and groundwater quality. The Deltares Bioremediation Lab researches both degradation under natural conditions (Natural Attenuation) and the stimulation of microbial degradation. Research at our facility answers questions about the needed environmental conditions and about the effective stimulation of microbial degradation at contaminated sites.

Research topics

Our research focuses on the microbial processes that are responsible for the degradation of contaminants at contaminated sites. We perform aerobic and anaerobic degradation studies in batches, soil columns and reactor experiments to mimic the processes in the field. With this, we are able to answer your questions related to the ongoing microbial processes and if and how the degradation can be stimulated. Compounds that we work on are:

• Aromatic hydrocarbons, such as BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and toluene);
• Chlorinated ethenes, such as  PCE, TCE, cis-DCE, and VC);
• Chlorinated ethanes (DCA);
• Chlorobenzenes;
• Oxygenating compounds MtBE, EtBE, and TBA;
• Endocrine disruptors, such as nonylphenol;
• Pesticides , such as lindane, HCH;

Furthermore, we perform specific analyses such as:

• Compound specific stable isotope analyses to distinguish degradation from dilution, transport, and volatilisation;
•  Molecular analyses to demonstrate the presence of the bacteria and/or specific enzymes that are responsible for the degradation.

Overview of projects and clients:

• Holland in-situ Project; Integrated approach towards optimised use of in-situ remediation techniques (contaminated industrial sites, contractors);
• Pesticides removal at an industrial site (chemical industries);
• Development of a molecular method to measure vinylchloride reductase to demonstrate remediation processes at contaminated sites. (dry cleaning companies; contaminated industrial sites);
• Detection and enhancement of MTBE degradation; the use of stable isotope and molecular analyses (petrochemical industries, chemical industries, consultants, contractors);
• Anaerobic degradation of benzene with either nitrate or chlorate as electron acceptor (chemical industries, contractors, consultants);
•  Aquaterra; interaction between (contaminated) groundwater, subsurface water and the (sub)surface  (EU; 6th Framework European Union).