Optimizing Anaerobic Bioremediation

Nutrimens® Granular, Enhancing the Efficiency of Electron Donor Utilization in Bioremediation

Bacteria are very sensitive to low pH. The optimal pH for bioremediation is between 6 and 8.5. To keep your in situ bioremediation project on track, pH should be maintained within a range where bioremediation is maximized. In general, more fermentation means more volatile fatty acid (VFA) production and lower pH. A major consequence when pH falls below 6 is a dramatic decline in enhanced reductive dechlorination.

One of the unique features of Tersus’ Nutrimens® Granular product is that the product stimulates fermentation resulting in more VFA production. Yet, its impact on pH is minimal. Doto and Liu (2011) reported and increase in total VFA production with increasing amounts of Tersus’ Nutrimens® Granular, while the pH was maintained at a higher or equal level to the control. This change could be a result of more lactate-bacteria that covert lactate to propionate (Callaway and Martin, 1997.).