Mathematical Modeling of Natural in Situ Bioremediation to Estimate Initial Contaminant Concentration Effect

Abstract

A mathematical model has been simulated to describe natural in situ bioremediation of contaminated soil. The model equations consist of a system of three non-linear partial differential equations. Sensitivity analysis conducted by numerically solving them, has demonstrated the effect of initial contaminant concentration on the time and mechanism of remediation. The result of simulation indicates that microbiological degradation of contaminant within the soil aggregate may play a significant role in remediation so that most of contaminants, which are initially present within the aggregates, are consumed before they reach the outer surface.