Innovative hybrid bioremediation and desalination for hydrocarbon- and salt- contaminated soils and groundwater

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Hydrocarbon-based resources are still indispensable sources of energy and one of the core elements driving economic growth in Canada. However, the intensified extraction of hydrocarbon energy resources is posing environmental risks to surrounding soil and groundwater resources. Numerous oilfield sites are impacted simultaneously by hydrocarbons (organic) and co-extracted salts and/or metals (inorganic), and mixed contamination at Canadian sites, including northern sites, is a pressing environmental concern for which the costs of remediation are prohibitively increased by multiple challenging conditions. In collaboration with Imperial Oil and PINTER & Associates, Dr. Wonjae Chang (Principal Investigator) and his research team will focus on hybrid bioremediation and desalination (HBD) technologies specialized for mixed organic and inorganic contaminants in environmentally challenging conditions. We aim to synergistically combine biological and physicochemical remediation processes for the removal of hydrocarbons, Na+ and Cl- (and other environmentally significant anions) from impacted soils, saline leachate and groundwater. The two key elements of the HDB process are (1) native, halotolerant, cold-adapted bacteria capable of degrading hydrocarbons during desalination, and (2) natural and engineered minerals that can readily incorporate salt cations and anions into their mineral frameworks. The HBD process is an innovative concept that will broadly foster the development of remediation technologies specialized for mixed contamination. This research is on the frontline of Canada's innovation for sustainable development and the environment. It will be beneficial to public safety and the environmental sustainability of Canadian energy. This research will contribute to meeting Canada's needs today and will become a high-impact research field for Canada's future.