PrecipiPHOS™
Metal Treatment Method

stabilizes metals in situ

PrecipiPHOS™ Metal Treatment Method
This new method of phosphate-amended
bioventing provides a cost-effective,
controllable alternative to other methods
of remediating sites contaminated with metals.
This method provides a carbon feed source and a phosphate nutrient for the growth of microbes that in turn produce inorganic phosphates as a byproduct of the digestive
process. The inorganic phosphates stabilize the metals through precipitation, co-precipitation, or adsorption. This method is useful in treating dissolved metals, metals sorbed to soils, and radionuclides.

Market Assessment
The U.S. market for metal remediation is estimated to grow to $1 billion per year. Other countries also have sites contaminated with heavy metals. The potential market for remediation of at least 15,000 sites in Japan is estimated at $12 to $15 billion.

Patent Status
A patent cooperation treaty application has been filed on this invention.

Stage of Development
This invention is in the conceptual stage but builds on the established, patented PHOSter™ technology. Components of
this method have been field tested, but the overall system has not been demonstrated. Proof-of-concept testing, at an estimated cost of $200,000 to $500,000, is needed.

Contact
Joseph Dugan, Licensing Associate
(803) 725-0848
joseph.dugan@srnl.doe.gov

For More Information
See tech brief.