In situ anaerobic bioremediation of earth and sold waste contaminants using organic/water emulsions
US6797171B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 4, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB09C1/10
- WIPO fieldEnvironmental technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process for in situ anaerobic bioremediation of contaminated earth media and solid waste media, including mining and chemical plant wastes, is shown. The process includes creating an emulsion of organic liquid dispersed in water, followed by infiltrating the emulsion into the media. Water, as the continuous emulsion phase, provides low viscosity and media wetting, favorable to infiltration. The emulsion disengages inside the media leaving dispersed organic nutrient attached to the media where it is accessible for microbial redox reactions, causing anaerobic conditions. Bioremediation includes sulfate reduction and precipitation of metal sulfides, and many other contaminant altering reactions achievable under anaerobic conditions. Components of the organic liquid are selected to enhance microbial activity and media adhesion. Contaminated groundwater and surface water, such as acid mine drainage, can be treated as they flow through a saturated media bed after the emulsion has been introduced into the media.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.