Bioremediation of hydrocarbon-impacted soils is a well-establish technology. However, it is often misapplied resulting in less than ideal results. The primary reason for failure of a landfarming process is a lack of understanding by the practitioner of the unique needs and limitations of microorganisms in the soil that are responsible for the transformation processes. Biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons is a growth related process. If hydrocarbon-degraders are not actively growing and reproducing there will be no biodegradation of hydrocarbons. Growth requires access to the hydrocarbons, oxygen, nutrients, moisture and the right environmental conditions. Recommended practice will be reviewed along with a few horror stories.

Primary Author / Conference Presenter:
Kerry L. Sublette
The University of Tulsa
Tulsa, Oklahoma
USA