Environmental biotechnology and contaminated sites

We specialise in microbiological environmental aspects to improve water quality and use biological decomposition process to purify water and keep it clean. Natural and stimulated biological degradation processes in the subsurface can contribute significantly to the cost-effective, environmentally friendly and sustainable elimination of these substances.

In the event of contamination, TZW develops concepts and feasibility studies to clean up the affected resources. We use environmental biotechnology lab and microbiology and molecular biology detection methods when assessing the hazards of their biodegradability and ecotoxicity.

Microbiological decontamination concepts at contaminated sites

Using molecular biological investigations and laboratory studies in our biotechnology pilot plant, we develop the necessary framework conditions to stimulate and optimise pollutant degradation as part of our assessment of the biological degradation potential on contaminated sites. In addition, we use suitable aerobic or anaerobic and saturated and unsaturated lab systems depending on the investigated matters, to develop key site-specific parameters to dimension and upscale on-site and in-situ remediation work (e.g. Funnel-and-gate with bioreactor, iron(0) reaction walls, use of nanoiron).

Concept formulation for monitored and enhanced natural attenuation

The monitored and enhanced natural attenuation (MNA/ENA) requires in-depth knowledge of the process as well as, for example, the quantification and prediction of load reduction. Using deficit analyses, we formulate MNA/ENA concepts and determine the success factors for its implementation. Evidence for the natural attenuation is provided by assessing the pollutant profiles, redox zoning (redox-sensitive parameters, microbiological and molecular biological screening) and microcosms.

Degradability of new pollutants

For new substances, we identify the framework conditions for microbial degradation and conduct hazard analyses on degradability and ecotoxicity, based on literature searches and targeted laboratory testing. As part of feasibility studies we support the site owner or the engineering consult and support the implementation of the developed decontamination concepts with pilot field trials.

Innovative decontamination concepts by using new degradation pathways

Our practical research is particularly important in view of implementing innovative decontamination concepts. TZW uses its knowledge specifically for site-specific testing of new microbial degradation pathways, which enables us to derive new concepts for microbiological remediation practice.

Combination of technical and biological methods

Biological degradation processes are often unusable or inadequate for persistent and/or toxic substances. Using technical methods such as electrochemistry, ISCO or ozonation, the substances are exposed to microbial decomposition. Combining this with subsequent biological degradation makes it possible to develop cost-effective and sustainable concepts to effectively eliminate persistent substances.