ABSTRACT
The physical and hydraulic properties of the aquifer, in an oil/gas-producing field near Traverse City, MI, are correlated with the natural biotic component present that is responsible for degrading hydrocarbon (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes [BTEX]) in situ. These properties are also correlated with the adsorbed phase component as a means to predict the biologically degraded quantity of hydrocarbon vs. the quantity removed through purging. Both the sessile and planktonic viable populations were assessed using a plating technique. BTEX degrading organisms were determined using two methods. One method offers a time-saving turnaround in the laboratory for determining the potential of a site for bioremediation technology, and is explained in this chapter. Presently, a pump-and-treat technology (air stripping and vapor phase granular activated carbon off gas treatment) is operational, and will be modified to include reinjection of a portion of the treated groundwater with amendments.
