Stimulating the anaerobic biodegradation of explosives by the addition of hydrogen or electron donors that produce hydrogen (original) (raw)

(HMX), and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) by a methanogenic mixed culture was investigated. Microcosms containing a basal medium and the mixed culture were amended with ethanol, propylene glycol (PG), butyrate or hydrogen gas as the electron donor and a mixture of TNT (50 µM), RDX (25 µM), and HMX (8 µM). After 29 days, TNT and RDX were completely transformed to unidentified end products in the bottles amended with ethanol, hydrogen, or PG, while 53%, 40%, and 22% of the HMX was transformed, respectively. There was no loss ofRDX or HMX in the electron donor unamended control bottles. The ethanol and PG were transformed to near stoichiometric amounts of acetate and propionate, suggesting the immediate electron donor supporting the transformation of the H 2 or electron donors that produce H 2 may be a useful strategy for enhancing the anaerobic biodegradation of explosives in contaminated groundwater and soils. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.

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