Using bacteria to clean-up TCE at Idaho National Laboratory (ID)
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.Read more here
[...]
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.
Related Posts (on one page):
- Using bacteria to clean-up TCE at Idaho National Laboratory (ID)
- Cleanup paused at Idaho National Laboratory (ID)