Assessing Aeration Methods for Remediation of Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soil

Overview

In Montana, over 150,000 acres of public land have been contaminated by hydrocarbons. These areas are more susceptible to groundwater contamination and climate issues. I chose this investigation because if remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils could be achieved through aeration methods/bioremediation, it could free up land for agricultural use, reduce the impact on climate, and reduce cleanup costs and groundwater contamination. My hypothesis was that the group of paint cans with the turned soil and Pseudomonas fluorescens will have achieved the best remediation. T o test this, I used different aeration techniques (turn, holes, none) and planted Pseudomonas fluorescens into half of the paint cans of each aeration technique. I gathered samples at the beginning of experimentation and from each of the groups at the end. The results of my experimentation showed that remediation was best achieved in the paint cans of group F. The total extractable hydrocarbons of the average of this group were, at minimum, 287.6 mg/kg less than the other groups. Based on these findings, I was able to accept my hypothesis. After completing statistical analysis, I found that my data was not statistically significant. T o further continue this investigation and to further achieve remediation, I would try different methods of bioremediation, look to perform experimentation during a warmer time of year, and try to better distribute the hydrocarbons in the soil. I would also look to continue remediation efforts for longer periods of time. 44

Competition history

• JSHS 2023 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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