Effects of Freeze–Thaw Phenomena on Controlled Nutrient Release: Application to Bioremediation
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2016-12-01
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Clean - Soil, Air, Water
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WILEY-BLACKWELL
Melbourne Authors
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Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
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Journal Article
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Freidman, B. L., Gras, S. L., Snape, I., Stevens, G. W. & Mumford, K. A. (2016). Effects of Freeze–Thaw Phenomena on Controlled Nutrient Release: Application to Bioremediation. Clean Soil Air Water, 44 (12), pp.1739-1749. https://doi.org/10.1002/clen.201600162.
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Abstract
Cold region soils are often devoid of sufficient nutrients essential for timely bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminants. While materials that release nutrients in a controlled manner have been shown to stimulate biodegradation over extended time periods, the physical and chemical response of these materials to repetitive freeze–thaw stresses typical of cold regions remains poorly understood. This study reports the performance of four controlled release materials in water (Osmocote™, Nutricote™, Polyon™, Zeopro™) exposed to freeze–thaw cycling or control temperature of 4°C. Additionally Zeopro™‐activated carbon mixtures are investigated for application to permeable reactive barriers. Osmocote™ experienced higher nutrient release under control conditions compared with samples exposed to freeze–thaw after 20 days. Nutrient release from Nutricote™ and Polyon™ was similar under freeze–thaw and control conditions. Zeopro™ delivered low nutrient concentrations into solution in both freeze–thaw and control samples with calcium phosphate dissolution accelerated in the presence of activated carbon. Osmocote™, Nutricote™ and Polyon™ revealed strong resistance to breakdown under freeze–thaw. Zeopro™ experienced only partial disintegration, while significant break‐up of activated carbon occurred under freeze–thaw. A physical and chemical understanding of the response of multiple fertilisers can guide the selection of materials for biostimulation and biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in environments exposed to freeze–thaw cycling.