| abstract |
The present invention discloses the formulation and use of an advanced solid-media chemical composition which includes both plant-derived and inorganic components which is designed and intended to enhance the removal of a broad range of recalcitrant organic and inorganic contaminants in the environment by providing an improved means of promoting the anaerobic, biologically mediated degradation, transformation, and/or detoxification of the contaminants which may be present in solid and liquid wastes, soils, sediments, and water bodies. The invention provides for improved means of (i) promoting the solid-phase extraction, absorption, and adsorbtion of recalcitrant contaminants from contaminated media, (ii) creating, enhancing, and maintaining anaerobic and highly reducing conditions (i.e., negative Eh values); (iii) providing sources of carbonaceous co-substrates, inorganic, and organic anaerobic electron acceptors, and organic and inorganic nutrients to promote the growth of contaminant-degrading microorganisms, and (iv) providing sources of inoculum of naturally occurring microorganisms which act to promote the biodegradation of contaminants. Additional forms, means, and methods for the production and use of the disclosed solid-chemical composition are also provided to provide additional advantages and to enhance other advantages provided by the composition and/or the components thereof. |