Increasing Microbial Distribution During Injections

Distribution of the microbes in the subsurface can be a limiting factor to efficient bioremediation. There are several steps that can be taken to maximize distribution of the microbes at a site.

• Know the hydrogeology of the site. The microbes are mobile, but at the same time, the distribution of the microbes is highly dependent on the natural groundwater flow patterns at the site. The type of soil found at the site may influence the distribution as well.
  
  
• The use of pressure during delivery of the microbes to the subsurface can be beneficial. Inject at low pressure (10 to 14 psi or lower). Because the microbes are sensitive to high pressure, their populations will be reduced if exposed to any pressure higher than 14 psi.
  
  
• To decrease injection time and increase distribution of the microbes in the formation, purge the wells before injecting the microbes.