DEVELOPING GUIDELINES FOR BIO-TRAP
SAMPLERS TO EVALUATE ORCŪ-ENHANCED
REMEDIATION OF BTEX CONTAMINATED AQUIFERS
Greg Davis*
Dora Ogles
Josh Streufert
Debra McElroy
Microbial Insights
2340 Stock Creek Blvd
Rockford, TN 37853
Voice: 865-573-8188
Fax: 865-573-8133
E-mail: gdavis@microbe.com
Scott Mullin
Regenesis
San Clemete, CA
Steve Sittler
Handex
Indianapolis, IN
Kerry Sublette
University of Tulsa
Tulsa, OK
Numerous studies within recent years have shown the utility of Bio-Trap samplers combined with molecular based diagnostic tools (such as PLFA and Real-time PCR (CENSUS)) as an effective way to monitor microbial response to a particular treatment. However, guidelines for the use of Bio-Trap samplers and the respective assays employed need to be established to ensure that the results obtained are meaningful. This study focused on establishing such guidelines in the evaluation of the microbial response to ORCŪ at a BTEX contaminated site. The study design included consideration of criteria such as well selection, Bio-Trap incubation times, and selection of appropriate analyses. In this study, Bio-Trap samplers were analyzed for the abundance of specific microbial oxygenase genes involved in the biodegradation of aromatic hydrocarbons. The results obtained were used to establish preliminary guidelines on the most effective procedures for field applications, and to show that an understanding of microbiological processes is a key factor in cost-effective site management.