Research Product

Our understanding of the biodegradation of potentially hazardous organic chemicals in the environment continues to expand at a rapid rate. For example, unique microorganisms possessing novel biodegradative abilities continue to be discovered, knowledge of physicochemical factors limiting biological activity in the field (e.g., bioavailability) has increased, and innovative methods for assessing and monitoring field performance have been developed. Concomitantly, innovative strategies for integrating microbiological advances with new implementation tools have provided bioremediation technologies with significant application potential. This article summarizes existing biotreatment approaches, presents some of the inherent benefits and disadvantages associated with each technology, and describes some of the more recent advances in the bioremediation industry. Last, we describe our own use of innovative inoculation procedures that may enhance the effectiveness and expand the applicability of various bioremediation technologies, thereby providing cost-efficient, effective tools for full-scale remediation of soil and water impacted by compounds notoriously difficult to treat biologically.