ARCHIVED REPORTS XR0006866 - Laserfiche WebLink

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PRINCIPLES OF USE The basic concepts are not difficult. Systems are seeded with formulations of carefully matched organisms that can use the various petroleum products to increase their biomass as energy sources. Application techniques maximize the biological activity and enable the various organisms to handle the original array of compositions present as well as those formed through catabolism. Nearly every program needs to be looked upon as a case unto itself, however, some guidelines are provided here for consideration. A Solmar Corp. represent- ative should be consulted prior to initiating any program. In nearly all instances treatability studies should be conducted by Solmar Corp. to assure suitability of any program and to determine the product of choice. Principles need to be borne in mind. The Advanced Bio Cultures Formulations are based upon preserved microorganisms which become activated when put in water. Like all living organisms the various essential elements must be included in their diet, such as calcium, carbon, iron, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorous, etc. Application techniques must take this into account. Time requirements for completion of any program are dependent upon many differ- ent factors including the nature of the compositions present, the complexity of these compositions present, the temperature, pH, salinity, final disposal techniques, the amount of aeration and agitation available. For example, bacteria perform most efficiently at 35°C. Their efficiency • is roughly halved for every 10°C shift. Pasteurization occurs above 50°C. Similarly a pH of 7 is best with activity being approximately halved for every shift of I pH unit. Variable pH's have a very deleterious effect on the bac- teria. Aeration is crucial. The initial degradation steps require oxygen. Further- more the bacteria operate far more efficiently aerobically. Aeration also provides agitation, which increases the oil/water interface surface area drama- tically. The bacteria then have a greater opportunity to degrade the oils. Some compositions are more easily degraded than others. Straight chained compounds generally breakdown much more quickly than aromatics or cross-linked structures. It may take longer to break down a large number of different compositions than if fewer are present. The viscosity and quantity of oil to be degraded influence the time required for the program. ANTICIPATED RESULTS Programs vary considerably. Where emulsification is present, many systems experience demulsification as the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of the emul- sifying agent is disrupted by biodegradation. This can facilitate phase separ- ation techniques. On the other hand where distinct phases exist and little degradation has occur- red treatment with the Advanced Bio Cultures may produce an emulsion, thereby accelerating biodegradation. In the treatment of lagoons or sumps degradation may seem slow initially and then appear to speed up as the system approaches a state of equilibrium. Following this, sludge from the bottom frequently is freed up, which then covers the surface. It is subsequently broken down.