SBIR Phase I: Bioremediation of Chlorinated Solvents in Saturated, Low Permeability Soils

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This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will investigate the problem of chlorinated solvent contamination in saturated, low permeability soils. The specific objectives of Phase I research are : (1) to quantify the effectiveness of chitin as an electron donor facilitating reductive dechlorination and enhancing bioavailability of tetrachloroethylene (PCE and TCE); ( 2) to incorporate chitin into a delivery system designed for low permeability soils; and (3) to evaluate the delivery method in the field. Preliminary studies have shown that chitin may be an ideal candidate to facilitate low cost, low maintenance bioremediation of chlorinated solvent residual sources. Obtained as a byproduct from the shellfish industry, chitin is particularly attractive as it is very commonly available. If favorable results are obtained during Phase I column and field studies, then a follow on Phase II project will further examine mechanisms controlling process efficiency and longevity.The commercial applications of this project will be in the multi-million dollar bioremediation market.