Innovative strategies for the recovery of LNAPL contaminated sites by in situ bioremediation

The main goal of the research project is to devise alternative enzymatic an d microbial processes for an effective in situ remediation of areas contami nated by LNAPL (Light Non Aqueous Phase Liquid). NAPL or NAPL constituents may be transformed in more simple, less-toxic com pounds or they may be incorporated in polymeric aggregates by biologically- mediated processes, through the action of competent microorganisms or isola ted enzymes. Specific objective of the research is to identify and characterize site-spe cific microorganisms and enzymes able to minimize, control and/or to elimin ate NAPL-contamination under multiphasic conditions.