Micro-Bac International, Inc.
Biodegradation of TPH
Project This lined lagoon measured 150 feet by 75 feet, holding materials with a depth of approximately six feet. This material consisted of tank bottom sludge, soil, sand and metals. A layer of clear rain water covered about 30% of the solids with the balance of the solids breaking the surface in several large mounds.
Treatment Samples were taken for a treatability study as well as for analysis of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). TPH measured 600,000 ppm. After positive microbial treatability results, an engine-driven, 3-inch centrifugal pump was installed. The lagoon was inoculated with M-1000H*® and nutrients. The water was then drawn from the lagoon and reinjected using the pump and a stream straightener mounted on a fire hose. The water jet was used to hydraulically undermine the large mounds and distribute them throughout the lagoon. Other areas of the lagoon were manually excavated to assist in leveling the mounds prior to treatment.
Results The water became brownish and opaque within 48 hours. After 10 weeks, a significant reduction of hydrocarbons was visually noted . Samples were taken from a variety of locations around the site and blended into two composite samples that were sent to an independent lab for testing. The test results indicated that only 85,000 ppm TPH remained.
Conclusion The TPH of the lagoon's solids were reduced by more than 80%. Microbes and nutrients remain in the lagoon to continue the degradation process.
Information provided by James B. Neill