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BIOREMEDIATION

APPLICATIONS

Learn the difference between in-situ and ex-situ methods for bioremediation! Discover ways in how they both ultimately benefit the environment and what makes each unique.

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WHAT IS IN-SITU BIOREMEDIATION?

This form of a bioremediation process is usually performed at the original site of the contamination. 

This process however depends on a variety of factors including pH, moisture supply, nutrients, and the on-site characteristics.

By adding and monitoring these factors, it gives the process/organisms a chance to increase its rate of degradation.

IN-SITU

BIOREMEDIATION

EX-SITU

BIOREMEDIATION

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WHAT IS EX-SITU 

BIOREMEDIATION?

Ex-situ is a technique that occurs away from where the original contaminants are found in the given site. 

This form of bioremediation uses microorganisms and hydrocarbons as a treatment for the surface of the ground and soil.

Unlike the previous method mentioned above, the ex-situ process costs a lot more.

AN EXAMPLE OF AN EX-SITU PROCESS

Composting is a major example of an ex-situ process. Composting is simply decomposing organic matter like leaves, fruits, or vegetable scraps. This eventually energizes the soil underneath that is made up of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi or even earthworms. Composting enhances the ability of plants to fight off diseases and even improve the health and nutrition value of the particular plant being grown.

  • Money efficient

  • Practical and convenient

  • Produces healthier plants and soil composition

  • Safer alternative to landfilling

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AN EXAMPLE OF AN IN-SITU PROCESS

Bioventing is a new form of an in-situ remediation process that specializes in depending on microorganisms to essentially biodegrade organic constituents. Typically, these constituents are found in soils in the "unsaturated zone." Bacteria is then introduced to better air and oxygen flow to sustain microbial activity. The technology used to make this process work can vary in price ranges but can ultimately cost more in smaller sites. This innovation was first introduced in the early 1980s and has now made its mark in today's time.

  • Dispose solvents

  • Reduce air pollution

  • Short treatment time

  • Impact mineralization processes

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MORE TECHNOLOGIES
Discover the other forms of technology used in the bioremediation process
BIOFILTERS

Biofilters work to control pollution using a bioreactor. The bioreactor contains living microorganisms that specifically capture and degrade pollutants. Whether it is air pollution or water contaminants, these biofilters work effectively due to its complexity.

 

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Disadvantages:

 

  • Not all organic compounds can be treated

  • High concentrated contaminant sources require a larger biofilter unit

  • Longer acclimation periods 

Advantages:

 

  • Can develop microorganisms with low growth rates

  • Lower cost

  • Versatile to treat toxins

  • Low chemical usage

BIOREACTOR

Bioreactors are used commonly in the world of biotechnology. This technology is a vessel that carries out a chemical process to culture aerobic cells derived from organisms for the conduction of enzymatic immobilization. Bioreactors come in a wide variety of types that all serve to reach a common goal. 

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Disadvantages:

 

  • Requires shaft seals and bearings

  • Very limited on size and weight

  • Poor temperature control

Advantages:

 

  • Easily adaptable

  • Lower cost

  • Easy to clean

  • Simple constructing design

BIOSTIMULATION

Biostimulation require forms of nutrients that are added in a particular site to promote the activity of microorganisms or remediate unwanted contaminants. Phosphorus, oxygen, and nitrogen are common examples of these nutrients. Stimulants like fertilizer are also widely used. 

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Advantages:

 

  • Can be an ex-situ or in-situ process

  • Can be developed in a matter of time in developing countries 

  • prevents disturbance to the environment

Disadvantages:

 

  • Not all contaminants work for this process

  • More expensive

  • High field monitoring

  • Longer treatment time

LAND-FARMING

Land-farming is a bioremediation process (typically done as an in-situ process) that occurs on the upper soil zone in which sediments are blended to enhance the growth of beneficial microorganisms. This also treats the contaminants on the surface and any pesticides remaining. 

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Advantages:

 

  • High crop yield 

  • Can even remove large petroleum spills

  • Can treat diesel fuel and pesticides 

Disadvantages:

 

  • Requires a lot of space

  • Uncontrolled conditions for biological degradation 

  • Inorganic contaminants can not be biodegraded 

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