RainGrow offers cost effective bioremediation solutions while applying unique proprietary approaches to site contamination.
Soil Hydrocarbon Bioremediation
Bioremediation is an assisted natural process by which living organisms decompose hazardous materials. This method exploits the natural ability of microbes to consume chemical and biological contaminants, and yields byproducts such as water and carbon dioxide.
For petroleum contaminated soils, for example, once RainGrow has utilized traditional pump & treat techniques for free product recovery (pumping, sparging, stripping, vapor extraction, etc.), and hydrocarbon levels reduced below which these methods are effective, we then use a combination of proven and proprietary bioremediation processes to continue treatment until hydrocarbon contamination within vapor, water and soil is beneath
regulatory concern.
We work with existing data that characterizes hydrocarbon plumes but may recommend additional tests if needed. Soil samples are then analyzed for one or many parameters. We pay particular attention to features that affect our ability to access the hydrocarbon plume and stimulate their biodegradation. Factors that limit the growth and activity of indigenous hydrocarbon-consuming microorganisms are also identified. We then act to obviate, sequester, or remove those factors. Where appropriate, we will provide our natural biostimulants to help accelerate the rate of hydrocarbon degradation. If indigenous bacteria are not present we also have the ability to grow and inoculate the site with specific microbial cultures. In addition to soil, we are fully capable of treating pumped water and vapor extracts by using bio-filter treatment trains, followed by re-injection back into the soil, until safe levels of both are achieved.
The aforementioned approach is supported by increasing amounts of research evidence signifying the enhancement of onsite breakdown of hydrocarbons using humic substances. One significant benefit of bioremediation is that it avoids the introduction of dangerous chemicals, precluding any toxic residuals. Microbial breakdown is a naturally occurring process that can be enhanced without the introduction of harsh additives. As an in-situ procedure significantly less equipment is used, and there is a reduction in human exposure to the contaminants. These benefits considerably reduce costs while effectively remediating the site.
