Environmental biotechnology research: an overview.
Cleanup and treatment of hazardous wastes incur major operational costs for the U.S. Air Force. Bioremediation can provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional technologies for a wide range of natural organic compounds such as jet fuel. Bioventing and natural attenuation are emerging as treatments of choice in many instances. Synthetic organic chemicals are much more resistant to biodegradation. However, recent advances in biotechnology allow the development of strains able to use nitro- and chloro-substituted organic compounds as their sole source of carbon and energy. Current basic research is focused on expanding the range of synthetic chemicals amenable to biodegradation. At the same time, development of appropriate bioreactors and models for scale up are essential for practical application of the technology.
Armstrong Laboratory, Tyndall AFB, Florida 32403-5323.
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D001709:Biotechnology; D004783:Environmental Microbiology; D004787:Environmental Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006256:Hazardous Waste / Q000517:prevention & control; D012106:Research
D006256:Hazardous Waste