Column Study Simulating In Situ Bioremediation of Perchlorate Using Acetate as an Organic Substrate

Abstract

Perchlorate, which is highly soluble and is persistent in the environment, is being identified increasingly as a groundwater contaminant. Because perchlorate is biodegradable, a column study was conducted investigating the feasibility of in situ biodegradation of perchlorate using acetate as an organic substrate, which was necessary to stimulate biodegradation of perchlorate. Degradation of the perchlorate was rapid, with a minimal lag phase, once acetate was added to the column. By 72 h, complete removal of the perchlorate occurred (from 10 to