A model for metal bioremediation in groundwater is constructed. The mathematical model accounts for (i) the chemical processes that eventually render biomass inactive (ii) the toxicity of metal to biomass, and (iii) transport by groundwater. Numerical simulations of the reaction-convection-diffusion equations are carried out via an operator splitting method. The results of the model are compared to a structurally similar model for organic bioremediation. We find that metal cleanup differs significantly from organic cleanup due to the unique mechanisms involved.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Vega, Nicole Marie

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 02D353M

Advisor

• Weekes, Suzanne L.

Year

• 2002

Date created

• 2002-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright