At Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma, our team supported a large-scale groundwater remediation project aimed at reducing chlorinated solvent concentrations near a closed landfill and in several plume areas. We implemented in situ bioremediation technologies, including a bioreactor supported by a well circulation system and over 6,000 linear feet of biowalls constructed with a continuous one-pass trenching machine.
To minimize the project’s environmental footprint, we helped integrate several green remediation strategies. Locally sourced materials—including woody debris from municipal tree removal and cotton by-products from nearby gins—were used as organic substrate. Excavated soils were stockpiled and reused onsite. We also supported the use of solar energy to power a recirculation pump, eliminating the need for grid electricity.
The biowalls and bioreactor achieved removal efficiencies of up to 99% for trichloroethylene (TCE) and other chlorinated ethenes. Performance was sustained over time through periodic replenishment with biobased emulsified products such as soybean and vegetable oils. Our team’s approach not only met cleanup goals but also significantly reduced the environmental impact and long-term operational costs.