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Biodegradation potential of MTBE in a fractured chalk aquifer under aerobic conditions in long-term uncontaminated and contaminated aquifer microcosms

This paper presents the first carefully controlled laboratory study to show that MTBE, an important and widespread organic contaminant (fuel additive) in groundwater, can be biodegraded in chalk aquifers. The study demonstrated for the first time the potential for engineered bioremediation of MTBE-contaminated groundwater in aquifers. The findings supported implementation of a cost-effective management decision by a contaminated land site owner. This work led to a successful NERC research project at Sheffield (ongoing), co-funded by CONCAWE, the European organisation of petroleum fuel retailers (contact Jonathan Smith: Jonathan.W.Smith@shell.com).