| The effectiveness of in-situ bioremediation as a treatment technology for perchlorate-contaminated groundwater was examined. Perchlorate reducing organisms were found to be ubiquitous in both uncontaminated and contaminated environments based on Most Probable Number (MPN) determinations. Furthermore, the ability to stimulate and/or accelerate in-situ perchlorate degradation through donor addition was studied through microcosm experiments. Acetate, molasses, canola oil and oleate all served as successful electron donors. The effect of sulphate on perchlorate degradation was also assessed. It was determined that the effect of sulphate on perchlorate degradation is dependent on both the relative concentrations of perchlorate and sulphate, and on the microbial community composition at a site.; Perchlorate reducing organisms were isolated from the sites and studied with respect to characteristics that may affect in-situ biodegradation of perchlorate. All organisms isolated were facultative aerobes, all but two can reduce nitrate, and none can reduce ferric iron or sulphate. Growth kinetic parameters were similar for the isolates tested. |
