An Electrokinetic System for Accelerated Bioremediation for Differing Soil Types

The DoD has undertaken an ambitious environmental restoration program. Decontamination of soils and groundwater polluted with organics is a complex problem. Bioremediation is widely accepted for management of contaminated aquifers. Stimulation of bacteria by addition of electron donor species / nutrients can yield significantly faster site closure times, reducing the remediation time from 30 to three years. However, delivery of these compounds represents a significant challenge in low permeability clay soils. Lynntech has developed a patented electrokinetic system that allows delivery of electron donors and nutrient species to an exact location within the subsurface of the contaminated site. During Phase I Lynntech designed a small field demonstration system (96 ft2) that will be operational at Tinker Air Force Base (Old Fire Training Area, Sector CG037) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The first portion of Phase II research will include a 12,500 ft2 test site that will provide information on electroosmotic flow, effects of groundwater flow, and electromigration through the site. Information learned from the initial study will used to plan and perform site expansion to 55,000 ft2. Upon completion of Phase II research, Lynntech will determine if the site can be closed out and decommissioned or will require further treatment.