Influence of iron reducing processes for degradation of organic pollutants

Iron reducing processes (reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II) seem to be important for the turn over of bulk organic matter and organic compounds in landfill leachate contaminated aquifers, based on field observations. This project has been initiated to obtain a better understanding of the factors governing the microbial Fe(III)-reduction in aquifers and to isolate and to characterize a pure culture of Fe(III)-reducing bacteria for controlled experiments. The interaction between the Fe(III)-redicing bacteria and the environmental factors such as the concentration and type of Fe-oxides and carbon sources, including xenobiotics, is specifically in focus.