Constraints on hydrocarbon adsorption and nutrient release from zeolites at low temperatures for hydrocarbon remedation in Antarctica

Project aim

Hydrocarbon contamination poses a major threat to Antarctic and subantarctic ecosystems because these products are persistent and toxic. The potential for in situ or on-site remediation of hydrocarbon contaminants has been assessed as the only viable treatment strategy for Antarctica because the costs and environmental risks preclude off-site treatment. Prevention or minimisation of off-site migration is the first step in reducing risks from terrestrial fuel spills; a permeable reactive barrier is essential for this application. The main factor limiting natural microbial degradation of hydrocarbon contaminants in the Antarctic is nutrients, although cold temperatures, seasonally dry conditions, and sometimes oxygen (especially in some sub-Antarctic environments) are also important.

This project is designed to contribute to the development of permeable (bio-) reactive barriers (PRBs) for the containment and remediation of hydrocarbon spills that are dispersed by surface and subsurface runoff. It will contribute two fundamental aspects of barrier design: (i) low temperature adsorption data for the most commonly used fuel in Antarctica (SAB) (ii) nutrient uptake and low temperature release rates for controlled release nutrient delivery.