Microbial Data to Support Natural Source Zone Depletion

Natural source zone depletion (NSZD) refers to the loss of light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) petroleum hydrocarbons from the subsurface due to the naturally occurring processes of dissolution, volatilization, and biodegradation. NSZD can be very important at LNAPL-contaminated sites following active remediation. For example, ASTM guidelines for moving sites to closure (MStC) recognize that NSZD processes at underground storage tank (UST) releases are significant for the stability of LNAPL bodies.

Collecting multiple lines of evidence and trending the data over time can provide insights into NSZD processes occurring at a site. To directly assess the potential for LNAPL biodegradation in the source zone, molecular biological tools (MBTs) are recommended. A better understanding of NSZD can improve the conceptual site model as well as projections of the mobility, distribution, and longevity of LNAPL.

Molecular Biological Tools for NSZD

QuantArray®-NSZD

QuantArray®-Petro

CENSUS® (qPCR) ER

Next Generation Sequencing

MBTs to Assess NSZD at Petroleum Sites

QuantArray^®-NSZD quantifies a broad spectrum of microorganisms and functional genes involved in biodegrading LNAPL in the source zone, including methanogens, methanotrophs, sulfate reducers, iron reducers, denitrifiers, fermenters, acetogens, biosurfactant producers, and slime formers. Additionally, QuantArray^®‐Petro can be used to assess the genetic potential for both anaerobic and aerobic biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons. CENSUS^® qPCR can also be used to quantify microorganisms associated with NSZD processes.

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) identifies the microorganisms present down to the genus and reports their relative proportions, which can provide insight into the types of microbial processes occurring in the source zone.

Frequently asked questions

What type of sample should I submit for microbial analysis?

Microbial testing can be performed on a variety of sample types, including groundwater from the saturated zone, soil from the vadose zone, and even liquid samples containing LNAPL. More information on sample collection can be found here.

Do I need to provide additional sample volume per location to analyze for both QuantArray® and NGS?

No, the DNA extracted from your sample is sufficient to perform multiple molecular analyses, including QuantArray® and NGS.

Resources for NSZD Testing

QuantArray®-NSZD Brochure

Complementary Tests for Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Natural Source Zone Depletion Webinar

EASY STEPS TO SUPPORT NATURAL SOURCE ZONE DEPLETION

1) Call us at 865.573.8188 or email at [email protected]
2) A friendly member of our team will advise you on the right tools for the job
3) Order and receive your supplies
4) Perform sampling according to our clear and easy protocols
5) Fill out the chain of custody form
6) Send to the nearest Microbial Insights location
7) Receive your unbiased report with actionable data and insight

Corrective Action Plans

Have a different corrective action plan you are considering? Click the button information for other plan types and how Microbial Insights can help your project.

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