Using bacteria to clean-up TCE at Idaho National Laboratory (ID)

Neil Fischbein — Wed, 31 May 2006 06:26:16 +0000

Over a year ago, TCE clean-up efforts at Idaho National Laboratory were paused to observe progress. Now, the Associated Press reports:

A naturally occurring bacteria is being used to clean up a hazardous waste plume [of TCE] in the aquifer under the Idaho National Laboratory.

[...]

Bacteria native to the underground basalt in the area is breaking down the organic solvent and turning it into harmless byproducts, scientists say. Scientists are considering other areas where the bacteria could help.

“The natural bacteria are solving the problem,” Ron Crawford, a University of Idaho professor who is studying the bacteria, told the Post Register.

The DOE has plans to clean up other areas with the bacteria that can break down TCE, and use a method that makes the bacteria “breathe” TCE when oxygen is removed.

If your state representative wants to support better protections…

Neil Fischbein — Thu, 16 Jun 2005 06:36:04 +0000

…to keep people safer from TCE, please encourage them to contact:

Jody Milanese (millaneese) in Congresswoman Sue Kelly’s office at 202-225-5441

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The TCE Blog » News – Idaho

Using bacteria to clean-up TCE at Idaho National Laboratory (ID)

If your state representative wants to support better protections…