Modeling Plant Uptake and Biodegradation of Semi-Volatile Hydrocarbon Compounds

Abstract

In recent years, the possible use of plants for treatment of the large volumes of slightly contaminated soils offered a potential alternative for waste management. This study develops a methodology to simulate the transport of semi-volatile dissolved hydrocarbon compounds in soil water and their interaction with plant roots. Microbial activity on the root surface is incorporated into the simulation by a biofilm model. Furthermore, the model takes root growth into account. The numerical solution of this study can be employed to assess the efficiency of an in situ remediation technique using plants, possibly cash crops like cotton, to clean an area contaminated by semi-volatile organics.