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Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1007/s00253-010-2461-2
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Title (Primary) Current approaches for the assessment of in situ biodegradation
Author Bombach, P.; Richnow, H.H.; Kästner, M.; Fischer, A.
Source Titel Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
Year 2010
Department ISOBIO; UBT
Volume 86
Issue 3
Page From 839
Page To 852
Language englisch
Keywords Microbial in situ degradation; Contaminated aquifer; In situ microcosm; Compound-specific isotope analysis; Metabolites; Functional genes
Abstract Considering the high costs and technical difficulties associated with conventional remediation strategies, in situ biodegradation has become a promising approach for cleaning up contaminated aquifers. To verify if in situ biodegradation of organic contaminants is taking place at a contaminated site and to determine if these processes are efficient enough to replace conventional cleanup technologies, a comprehensive characterization of site-specific biodegradation processes is essential. In recent years, several strategies including geochemical analyses, microbial and molecular methods, tracer tests, metabolite analysis, compound-specific isotope analysis, and in situ microcosms have been developed to investigate the relevance of biodegradation processes for cleaning up contaminated aquifers. In this review, we outline current approaches for the assessment of in situ biodegradation and discuss their potential and limitations. We also discuss the benefits of research strategies combining complementary methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex hydrogeological and microbial interactions governing contaminant biodegradation in the field.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=9816
Bombach, P., Richnow, H.H., Kästner, M., Fischer, A. (2010):
Current approaches for the assessment of in situ biodegradation
Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 86 (3), 839 - 852 10.1007/s00253-010-2461-2