ARGUS Umweltbiotechnologie GmbH Case-study: Microbiological in-situ Remediation Case-study: Microbiological in-situ Remediation Case-study: Microbiological in-situ Remediation Case-study: Microbiological in-situ Remediation © 2024 ARGUS Umweltbiotechnologie GmbH ServicesRotary hoe and tank with nutrients Drainage with gravel bed Pipe laying in the area of a motorway service station Soil remediation Deciding on a contaminated-soil remediation process depends on the type, size and position of the contamination, as well as particular site conditions and stake-holder interests. ARGUS Umweltbiotechnologie GmbH applies microbiological and chemical remediation techniques in non-saturated and saturated soils, as well as in groundwater. Both processes can be combined with remediation of highly- impacted contaminant source-zones. Ongoing usage of the ground surface and buildings during in-situ remediation within the remediated site, is also possible and almost completely without hindrance to site users. This avoids time-consuming and cost-intensive soil excavation works. Microbiological in-situ Processes use the capability of site-specific microorganisms to break down and mineralise organic contaminants in soil, by adding oxygen-donors (for aerobic process), e.g. Molasses/Lactate (for anaerobic process) and/or additional growth factors (substrates, mineral salts). For microbiological remediation of soil contamination within 1m of groundsurface, we recommend using a soil tiller in conjunction with liquid fertilizer. Landfarming of large surfaces can be achieved cost-effectively in doing so. Our main application areas for microbiological processes are contamination with: •Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX), •Mineraloil Hydrocarbons (e.g. Diesel, heating oil, transformer oils etc.), •Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) •Phenols (in particular Alkylphenol) and •Semi-Volatile Halogenated Hydrocarbons (SVHH) Based on the specific baseline conditions of the remediation site, we install a system of infiltration groundwater wells, as well as drainage channels and aerators to provide sufficient quantities of oxygen donors, substrates and nutrients for the chosen microorganisms on a continuous or discontinuous basis. Monitoring wells are used to survey and document development of contaminants, substrate and oxygen as well as redoxpotential. The infiltration regime and oxygen/Molasses/Lactate dosages, together with further additives, are dictated by the monitoring results, in order to continuously optimise the process. |