New Approaches to Evaluate the Biological Degradation of RDX in Groundwater
ER-1607
Objective
Application of SIP to examine RDX biodegradation.
Methods to remove nitramine and nitroaromatic explosives from surface soils, including enhanced bioremediation, are well documented, but there are few proven techniques to effectively treat explosives, particularly nitramine explosives, in groundwater. In large part, an inadequate understanding of the microbiology, relevant biogeochemistry, and metabolic pathways of explosives degradation in situ accounts for the absence of consistently effective bioremediation approaches. This research is designed to address current scientific limitations in these areas.
The objective of this project is to combine state-of-theart analytical techniques, molecular approaches, and biogeochemical studies to enhance understanding of the biodegradation of the nitramine explosive hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in subsurface environments. A new understanding of such biodegradation processes will provide the Department of Defense (DoD) with an enhanced ability to predict the fate of nitramines in contaminated groundwater environments and to enhance more consistently the rate and extent of biodegradation through active remedial approaches.
Technical Approach
Key indicator metabolites of aerobic and anaerobic RDX biodegradation (including MEDINA, NDAB, nitrosoderivatives, and nitrous oxide) will be analyzed in groundwater from diverse contaminated sites using specialized analytical approaches. Laboratory microcosm and column studies will be conducted to understand the influence of important geochemical and environmental variables on the rates, extents, and pathways of RDX biodegradation. Stable-isotope probing (SIP) will be performed using 13C- and 15N- labeled RDX to better understand the microbial communities involved in RDX biodegradation in groundwater environments. Compound-specific stable isotope techniques will be developed and tested for in situ quantification of RDX biodegradation.
Benefits
This project will use innovative analytical and microbiological research to provide new information on in-situ RDX biodegradation. It is anticipated that the results will lead to more efficient and cost-effective approaches for treating RDX and other energetics at DoD sites. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2011)
Points of Contact
Principal Investigator
Dr. Paul Hatzinger
CB&I Federal Services
Phone: 609-895-5356
Fax: 609-936-9221
Document Types
- Fact Sheet - Brief project summary with links to related documents and points of contact.
- Final Report - Comprehensive report for every completed SERDP and ESTCP project that contains all technical results.
- Cost & Performance Report - Overview of ESTCP demonstration activities, results, and conclusions, standardized to facilitate implementation decisions.
- Technical Report - Additional interim reports, laboratory reports, demonstration reports, and technology survey reports.
- Guidance - Instructional information on technical topics such as protocols and user’s guides.
- Workshop Report - Summary of workshop discussion and findings.
- Multimedia - On demand videos, animations, and webcasts highlighting featured initiatives or technologies.
- Model/Software - Computer programs and applications available for download.
- Database - Digitally organized collection of data available to search and access.