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How to engineer biological processes that neutralize hazardous wastes
Author(s) -
Bhattacharya Sanjoy K.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
remediation journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.762
H-Index - 27
eISSN - 1520-6831
pISSN - 1051-5658
DOI - 10.1002/rem.3440020210
Subject(s) - hazardous waste , environmental science , waste management , bioremediation , biochemical engineering , aeration , organism , environmental engineering , engineering , contamination , ecology , biology , paleontology
Because bioremediation must satisfy the fundamental biological tastes of specific organisms, environmental engineers must create a nutritious waste stew. Waste‐hungry organisms need a proper electron acceptor. Oxygen is preferred; if it is not available, nitrate, sulfate, or carbon dioxide may work. The waste itself is a source of carbon and energy. Macronutrients are next—including phosphorus, nitrogen, and certain metals, if they are not already present in the wastewater—as well as micronutrients. Other factors, including pH, temperature, aeration, and mixing must suit the organisms' natural temperaments. This article explores how bioengineers can combine these ingredients in precise quantities and proportions in both conventional and innovative aerobic and anaerobic bioprocesses, including in situ treatment and even composting, to make the organisms healthy, happy, and inexpensive.