The Amnite P series (P100, P300, PC100) contain bacteria and fungi formulated for the effective bioremediation of soil and water contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons and substituted organic compounds.
To achieve effective biodegradation the microbes need the following conditions in order to work efficiently. Optimum conditions are:
- Temperature: 15 - 30oC
- pH between 5 - 9
- Oxygen levels above 2ppm
- Adequate presence of nutrients - nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous and trace elements. Nitrogen should be ~ 1-5% by weight of oil with the N:P ratio ~10:1
- Moisture level should be between 30 - 80% of the water holding capacity.
The geology of the site is also a critical factor. Impermeable soils such as clay limit the diffusion of water and oxygen and on chalk and sandstone problems can arise with aquifers. The presence of heavy metals or cyanide in the contaminated soil can inhibit biodegradation. It is therefore essential before carrying out bioremediation to have a geological survey undertaken of the site, to draw soil samples across the area and to have both a speciation of the contaminants undertaken as well as a laboratory degradability study. Once this information is available a decision can be taken on the remediation method and the microbial products to be used.
For further advice on product choice, treatment methods or laboratory studies contact CBL.
