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Exploration of Biodegration Methods for Hexahydro-1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5-Triazine (RDX)
EPA Grant Number: F6P20594Title: Exploration of Biodegration Methods for Hexahydro-1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5-Triazine (RDX)
Investigators: Coley, Bianca M
Institution: Spelman College
EPA Project Officer: Boddie, Georgette
Project Period: May 30, 2006 through February 29, 2008
Project Amount: $41,500
RFA: GRO Fellowships for Undergraduate Environmental Study (2006)
Research Category: Academic Fellowships
Description:
Objective:This research project will attempt to identify a method to biodegrade hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX). RDX is used as a military explosive and in civilian demolition. These explosives, located at military bases, can leach into the soil and groundwater if conditions permit. In the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the possible issue of petrochemicals contaminating water could arise because of the ammunition storages located near the areas affected by the hurricanes. It is important to have a method to biodegrade RDX to enable protection of human health. CDC indicates that RDX can cause nausea, vomiting and seizures. By using preliminary gas chromatography mass spectrometry analyses we found that RDX was not degraded over time. Our experiments test for the possible breakdown in anaerobic conditions followed by aerobic conditions. Results will be presented at Spelman College Annual Research Day and at the Safe Water Conference.
Supplemental Keywords:TREATMENT/CONTROL, Scientific Discipline, Waste, Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Chemistry, Treatment Technologies, Bioremediation, biodegradation, RDX, aerobic cometabolism, ammunnition storage and leaching, contaminants in soil, contaminated sediments, bioremediation of soils, contaminated groundwater