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Phytoimmobilization
Phytoimmobilization combines
phytoextraction with contaminant
stabilization in a specially amended top
soil layer. This method reduces the
volume of waste for ultimate disposal.
Contaminants are removed from the
soil through phytoextraction and are
encapsulated in plant tissue. The dying
plants fall onto a geotextile mat that
is embedded with sequestering
agents. The contaminants are
immobilized by the sequestering agent.
Market Assessment
David Glass Associates conducted a U.S. phytoremediation study in 1998. The
current market for remediation of metals
and radionuclides was estimated at $3 to $6 million. The future annual U.S.
market was estimated at $1 billion for metals and $0.5 billion for radionuclides.
Patent Status
U.S. Patent 6,560,920 has been issued on this invention.
Stage of Development
Laboratory experiments proving concept feasibility have been conducted at the
Savannah River Site.
Contact
Joseph Dugan, Licensing Associate
(803) 725-0848
joseph.dugan@srnl.doe.gov
For More Information
See tech brief.
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