Biodegradation of liquid scintillation cocktails

摘要

An apparatus for the biodegradation of toxic organic solvents contained in liquid scintillation cocktail (LSC) wastes is disclosed, as well as a method for its operation. Additionally, a novel microorganism, Pseudomonas sp NRRL B-18435, is disclosed for the biodegradation of the organic solvents contained in such wastes. The apparatus is capable of operating with solvent concentrations greater than 5,000 ppm and emulsifier concentrations greater than 2,000 ppm. Rates of solvent biodegradation range from 0.095 mg/L.min to about 7.0 mg/L.min.