Map of isotopic enrichments in a contaminated plume |
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Provide evidence for natural attenuation at contaminated sites with quantitative isotopic tools (monitored natural attenuation)
- We detect the enrichment of heavy isotopes (13C) in residual contaminants and calculate the amount of biodegradation.
- Dominant terminal electron-accepting processes (e.g. sulphate and nitrate reduction) are evaluated by characterising changes in isotopic signatures (34S/32S, 15N/14N, 18O/16O
in sulfate and nitrate).
Validating the effectiveness of in situ bioremediation (enhanced natural attenuation)
- Quantifying the isotopic enrichment at a treatment site will allow us to validate the effectiveness of a remediation regime.
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A schematic of BACTRAP distribution in a groundwater well |
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Sensitive and direct proof of biodegradation within a contaminant plume by the use of in situ microcosms
- We directly monitor in situ biodegradation in a groundwater system by using microcosms (BACTRAPs) that are loaded with isotopically-labelled contaminant (13C). After recovery, incorporation of 13C into the biomolecules of bacteria will demonstrate that active remediation is taking place within the contaminant plume.
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Localization and elucidation of the plume structure and contaminant source
- Isotopic fingerprints of chemicals allow us to identify the contaminant source and, potentially, pinpoint the contaminant manufacturer.
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Hydrological assessments of groundwater quality
- Tracer isotopes such as deuterium, tritium, 18O
and noble gases allow us to estimate the age, catchment area and transport patterns of a groundwater system.
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