Scientists May Have Found A Solution to MTBE Groundwater Contamination

Despite being banned in many states, MTBE contamination is still a problem for parts of the country. Now, scientists from Environmental Resolutions, Inc. (ERI) may have found a solution.

According to Genetic Engineering News, "bioreactors are now being used at dozens of locations, which show that naturally occurring microorganisms concentrated in state-of-the-art bioreactors can effectively clean contaminated groundwater sites." It seems that bioreactors can clean both MTBE and related chemicals such as TBA and other gasoline components.

"The bioreactor groundwater treatment technology developed by ERI and UC Davis includes an aboveground tank containing trillions of microorganisms, primarily bacteria that attach themselves to the surfaces of fine grains of sand. The grains are distributed throughout the tank by the upward flow of the water passing through the tank for treatment. As the contaminated water mixes with them, the microorganisms consume MTBE and other dissolved gasoline components as food. During the water's 20-minute journey through the bioreactor, the microorganisms destroy the gasoline chemicals, converting them to carbon dioxide and water, thus eliminating the contamination."

ERI bioreactors have been able to treat exteremly high concentrations and reduce it to the undetectable point. The bioreactors are quiet and odor-free and can be efficiently moved -- along with their microbial communities -- to new treatment sites.

If you have been affected by MTBE contamination, now is the time to seek legal help. Fill out the form below for a free case evaluation from the MTBE lawyers at Weitz and Luxenberg.

Click To Talk To Us Online

see also:

Developments MTBE bans under recent state laws
Recent state laws have been passed to ban MTBE in certain areas.

What Big Oil Knew The Oil Companies knew about the dangers of MTBE
Oil companies have known about the dangers of MTBE since 1980.

Learn More Protect Yourself from the Dangers of MTBE, Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether
Harmed by MTBE Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether? Let us fight for you.