초록 ▼

A method and apparatus are disclosed in which alkanes such as butane are used to degrade pollutants such as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and carbon tetrachloride (CT) at contaminated sites. In a preferred embodiment, pollutant concentrations are reduced by injecting a butane substrate into a contaminat

A method and apparatus are disclosed in which alkanes such as butane are used to degrade pollutants such as tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and carbon tetrachloride (CT) at contaminated sites. In a preferred embodiment, pollutant concentrations are reduced by injecting a butane substrate into a contaminated area to stimulate the growth of anaerobic butane-utilizing bacteria which degrade the pollutants. In addition to the anaerobic treatment, the area may optionally be treated aerobically by switching from anaerobic to aerobic conditions.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method of degrading a pollutant, the method comprising treating the pollutant by supplying an alkane in the substantial absence of oxygen to stimulate the growth of anaerobic bacteria which degrade the pollutant, wherein the alkane comprises a butane substrate including at least about 10 weight

1. A method of degrading a pollutant, the method comprising treating the pollutant by supplying an alkane in the substantial absence of oxygen to stimulate the growth of anaerobic bacteria which degrade the pollutant, wherein the alkane comprises a butane substrate including at least about 10 weight percent butane.