Influence of soil and sediment pH and redox conditions on degradation of toxic organics

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-1991

Abstract

The presence of toxic organics in soil and sediments has raised concern over persistence and bioaccumulation. In the absence of oxygen, microbial degradation of toxic organics proceeds by the ability of organisms to use alternate electron acceptors such as nitrate, sulfate, iron and manganese oxides, and CO2. Redox (oxidation-reduction potential) and pH conditions in soil have been shown to influence rates of toxic organic degradation. Sediment pH and redox potential significantly affect PCB mineralization. Naphthalene and benzo(a)pyrene degradation are also influenced by soil redox conditions. The optimal soil redox conditions for degradation of various classes of organics are summarized. Excess concentrations of the electron acceptor nitrate enhanced naphthalene mineralization in soil. Sediment pH and redox conditions are two parameters which can be managed to enhance degradation of toxic organics in contaminated soil or sediment and would be important in evaluating persistence in restrictive subsurface environments.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Symposium on Ground Water

First Page

311

Last Page

316

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