Pilot-scale experimental study on the enhanced natural attenuation of complex organic contaminants based on the recharge of electron acceptors.

Anaerobic biodegradation plays a crucial role in attenuating organic contaminants in natural aquifers, where the concentration and type of electron acceptors directly determine the stages and rates of degradation progress. In this study, nitrate depletion was monitored in a simulated pilot-scale aquifer contaminated with toluene and trichloroethylene, while sulfate became the new periodic electron acceptor, accompanied by a decrease in the contaminant attenuation rate. Consequently, nitrate was injected into the contaminated plume in stages, and the hydro- and biochemical impacts were further monitored. The results revealed that the active recharge of nitrate became a new electron donor involved in anaerobic reduction processes, with contaminants attenuation rates increased by 2.48-3.88 times compared with that before injection. Moreover, the active recharge of nitrate inhibited further consumption of sulfate and oxidized pre-existing sulfides, which reduced the biological toxicity of the aquatic environment and provided favorable conditions for the growth of nitrate-reducing microorganisms. This study evaluated the enhancement of natural attenuation by recharging nitrate as an electron acceptor, providing a theoretical basis for environmentally friendly and economic remediation of petroleum-contaminated aquifers.