Bioremediation-Techniques and Methods
2. Ex-Situ Bioremediation
Ex -Situ bioremediation involves removing the contaminated material (e.g., soil, sediment) and treating it at another location.
Methods:
Includes bioreactors, landfarms, and biopiles. Bioreactors use large vessels to mix and treat contaminated material in a controlled environment, while landfarms and biopiles involve placing the contaminated material in isolated areas for treatment.
Advantages:
Allows for better control of variables like temperature, aeration, and nutrient levels, potentially leading to faster and more efficient treatment. It also prevents the contaminant from spreading further.
Disadvantages:
Requires the removal and transportation of contaminated material, potentially leading to higher costs and environmental impacts.
Examples:
Using a bioreactor to treat contaminated soil slurry, or placing contaminated sediment in a biopile for aerobic decomposition.