Patent ID: 6573087
Filing Date: 2003-06-03
Classification: B09C,C02F,C09K,C10G,Y10S

Abstract:
An absorbent package for containment and bioremediation of hydrocarbons in water comprising:a concentration of microbial organisms capable of degrading hydrocarbons; a timed release mechanism for containing said concentration of microbial organisms, wherein upon activation said timed release mechanism controllably releases said concentration of microbial organisms; an absorbent matrix of hydrophobic, oleophilic fibrous material selected from the group consisting of synthetic fibers and cellulose fibers for storing an accumulation of hydrocarbons, whereby hydrocarbons wick by capillary action into said absorbent matrix contacting said concentration of microbial organisms wherein said absorbent matrix controls microbial hydrocarbon degradation by permitting oxygen, water, and nutrients to aid hydrocarbon consumption by said concentration of microbial organisms; and a porous casing, filled with said absorbent matrix and said concentration of microbial organisms having a timed release mechanism, said porous casing forming a package through which hydrocarbons pass into said absorbent matrix whereby the hydrocarbons are absorbed into said absorbent matrix and accumulated therein for controlled degradation by said concentration of microbial organisms into a benign material.