Reductive Biological Transformation of Alkyl Halides

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Alkyl halides are the most prevalent groundwater contaminants in the United States and are significant components of hazardous wastes. The potential for biological transformation of these compounds has been found only recently. In-situ biotransformation appears an excellent possibility for cleansing groundwaters of these contaminants, but a better understanding of the microorganisms and environmental factors is clearly needed. Good potential also exists for use of biological processes for treatment of hazardous wastes. Studies will be conducted on environmental factors affecting rates of biotransformation of alkyl halides and intermediates formed using pure cultures of microorganisms observed to bring about the transformations. Environmental factors of interest are redox environment, temperature, electron donors and acceptors, and microbial species.