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Mineralization of Hydrocarbons in Soils under Decreasing Oxygen Availability

Landscape and Environmental Research Group, Univ. of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Prinsengracht 130, 1018 VZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

^* Corresponding author (jan.freijer{at}rivm.nl).

ABSTRACT

Techniques for remediation of soils contaminated with hydrocarbons (HCs) can be improved when the factors that control the decomposition rate are identified. In this study, the effect of O₂ availability on the decomposition rate of hydrocarbons in soils is examined. A kinetic second-order model with the O₂ concentration and biomass concentration as rate-controlling variables is used to quantify HC decomposition, O₂ consumption, and CO₂ production. Concentrations of O₂ and CO₂ are calculated analytically as a function of time in a three-phase closed system. These calculations are compared with measurements of repetitive O₂-depletion experiments in closed jars containing a layer of soil contaminated with HCs. About 80% of the HC decrease could be attributed to mineralization, while the other 20% was assumed to be converted into biomass and metabolites. After calibration, model calculations agree with the experimental results, which makes the concept of O₂ concentration and biomass concentration as rate-controlling variables plausible. The parameter values that are obtained by calibration have a clear biochemical significance. It is concluded that attention has to be paid to the O₂ supply in closed-jar experiments to avoid erroneous interpretation of the results.

Present address: National Institute of Public Health and Environmental Protection, P.O. Box 1 3720 BA Bilthoven, the Netherlands.

Received for publication November 12, 1994.