Transport of Bacteria in Ground Water

Abstract

Many soil sites and aquifers that are contaminated with organic chemicals can be remediated by stimulating the growth and activity of a part of the indigenous microbial population. In some cases, bioremediation may be improved by introducing special microorganisms into the soil or aquifer. This may reduce adaptation times, enhance bioconversion rates, or prevent the build-up of undesired intermediates or dead-end products. Microbial transport is important for bioremediation for three reasons. i) Bacteria can only be succesfully introduced into an aquifer when their transport and attachment behaviour is understood and can be controlled. ii) A widespread dispersal of indigenous or added microorganisms during or after application must be prevented to avoid microbial contamination of the aquifer. iii) Mobile microorganisms may take part in a colloid-facilitated transport of non-degraded or non-degradable contaminants and may thus contribute to an undesired dispersal of pollutants.