Apparatus for bioemediating explosives

Technology for in situ remediation of undetonated explosive material. A bioremediating apparatus in the form of a storage chamber houses in moist condition type of microorganisms capable of metabolizing the explosive material. Examples of such microorganisms include Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, Morganella morganii, Rhodococcus spp., Comamonas spp., and denitrifying bacteria. The bioremediating apparatus is joined with an explosive apparatus that houses a charge of explosive material. A solution released into the storage chamber by opening a first valve hydrates the microorganisms. The explosive assembly has an actuation means for opening the first valve and a second valve that releases the microorganisms from the storage chamber to begin metabolizing the explosive material, when the explosive apparatus is joined with the bioremediating apparatus. If the explosive material fails to detonate, the explosive is remediated by the action of the microorganisms. Remediation includes both disabling of the explosive material and detoxification of the resulting chemical compositions. The valves utilized are either mechanical, and thus opened by the coupling of the bioremediating apparatus to the explosive apparatus, or comprised of a slowly effacing material, such as gelatin. A micro-scale form of a bioremediating apparatus includes microorganisms encapsulated in gelatin for disposition mixed in or contacting the explosive material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
1. The Field of the Invention 
The present invention is directed to systems, apparatus, and methods for 
remediating explosives. More particularly, the present invention is 
directed to the remediation of explosives which have failed to detonate. 
2. Background Art 
Explosive charges are inherently dangerous in a number of respects. 
Inadvertent detonation poses risks of severe personal injury or death, as 
well as of substantial property destruction and consequential losses. 
Explosive charges are, in addition, comprised of material substances, 
which even when not consolidated in shape capable of performing as a 
detonatable explosive charge, are nevertheless toxic and thus potentially 
injurious to human health and to complex as well as simple plant and 
animal life. 
Explosive charges that are not securely stored in a supervised manner, or 
isolated from the environment and from indiscriminate access by human and 
animal life forms, thus present both safety and environmental hazards. 
Such hazards are pointedly apparent where an explosive charge fails to 
detonate after the explosive charge has been installed for that purpose 
during activities pertaining to mining, construction, or to seismic 
surveying. Fortunately, installed explosive charges that do not detonate 
as planned are usually locatable and often recoverable through the 
expenditure of reasonable efforts and without safety risks to personnel. 
On the other hand, there do routinely arise circumstances in which 
undetonated explosive charges of this type are not recovered or simply 
cannot be recovered. Then, the risks are present that the undetonated 
explosive charge could at some subsequent time be detonated inadvertently 
or become a source of toxic environmental contaminants. 
As an example, seismic survey data used to ascertain the nature of 
subsurface ground structures is routinely obtained by recording and 
analyzing shock waves that are propagated into the ground and produced by 
detonating explosive charges. The shock waves are then monitored during 
transmission through the ground. In this role, such seismic charges are 
usually utilized in large sets, installed as an array of individual 
seismic charges at widely disbursed locations. The seismic charges are 
interconnected with detonation equipment for remote detonation, either 
simultaneously or in sequence. 
Seismic charges for such surveys can be detonated either above or below the 
surface of the ground. In either case, it is not uncommon that at least 
one of any set of such seismic charges does not detonate as intended. Such 
failures may be caused by defects in the explosive charge itself, by 
damage caused during installation, by faulty detonation equipment, or by 
the failure of personnel in the field to make effective interconnections 
between that detonation equipment and each seismic charge in the installed 
set. 
When a seismic charge installed above the ground fails to detonate as 
intended, it is usually possible to locate and safely recover the 
undetonated seismic charge. Nonetheless, circumstances do exist where the 
detonation of a set of seismic charges installed above the ground 
dislocates one of the undetonated seismic charges in the set, directing 
that undetonated seismic charge into a terrain in which the charge cannot 
be located or cannot be recovered easily. Responsible seismic crews 
naturally are trained to exercise all reasonable efforts to recover 
undetonated seismic charges that are located on the surface of the ground, 
but even the most rigorously indoctrinated and enthusiastic seismic 
personnel cannot guarantee that all undetonated seismic charges installed 
above the ground are ultimately recovered. 
Aside from the human factor involved, the intervention of severe weather 
conditions, such as sandstorms, blizzards, tornadoes, or hurricanes, can 
impede efforts to recover undetonated seismic explosives. Some such 
weather conditions offer the prospect of even altering the terrain, 
thereby burying the undetonated seismic charge temporarily or for a 
substantial duration. Floods can cover the seismic survey site, removing 
or obscuring undetonated seismic charges. In the extreme, geological 
surface changes, such as mudslides, rockfalls, and fissures caused by 
earthquakes, by heavy weather, or even by seismic survey activity itself, 
can preclude the recovery of undetonated seismic charges, and even obscure 
the understanding that any seismic charge has failed to detonate. 
The safety risks and environmental hazards posed by loose, undetonated 
explosive charges will be present where any undetonated seismic charge 
remains unrecovered after the detonation of the set of seismic charges of 
which it was a part. 
The likelihood that an undetonated seismic charge will be abandoned is 
greatest, however, relative to the conduct of seismic survey activity 
based on the detonation of seismic charges installed below the surface of 
the ground. In such sub-surface seismic detonation activity, a series of 
deep boreholes are drilled into the earth or rock at predetermined 
locations that are intended to maximize the data to be derived from the 
shock waves promulgated from the detonation of the seismic charges. A 
seismic charge is placed at the bottom of each borehole and then shut in 
the borehole in a relatively permanent manner using a concrete or a 
sealing compound, such as bentonite. The balance of the borehole is then 
backfilled with loose soil and rock, a process which alone accounts for 
the majority of failed seismic detonations. Backfill materials have an 
understandable tendency to break the detonating cord that interconnects 
the installed seismic charge at the bottom of the borehole with detonating 
equipment located above the ground. If a seismic charge installed below 
the ground fails to detonate, the easy removal of the undetonated seismic 
charge is seriously impeded by yards of backfill and the cured concrete or 
sealing compound in which the seismic charge was embedded at the bottom of 
the original borehole. Removing such an installed seismic charge by 
reexcavating the original borehole or by digging around the original 
borehole to avoid the sealing compound is extremely laborious and time 
consuming, potentially unsafe, and in many circumstances virtually 
impossible. 
Thus, in conducting seismic survey activities, particularly seismic survey 
activities involving the detonation of seismic charges below the surface 
of the ground, undetonated seismic charges are regularly abandoned in the 
field. Frequently, even the precise location of undetonated seismic 
charges cannot be pinpointed. The risks from undetonated explosive charges 
installed in the ground endure for a substantial time, usually exceeding 
the durability of ground surface warning signs, fencing, or the continued 
possession and control of access to the site by an original owner. 
Eventually, the pressure of human population growth may render the site 
attractive for civil or industrial activities that would not be consistent 
with buried undetonated explosive charges. 
The associated dangers include first that of an accidental detonation at 
some future time. Less dramatic, but certainly of longer duration, are 
risks presented by the material substance of those undetonated charges. 
Once released from the confines of the casing of an explosive assembly, 
the explosive material therein may cease to present any risk of explosion. 
This type of release of explosive materials can occur through corrosion of 
the casing through the action of ground water, the fracture of the casing 
during careless installation, or the shifting of the ground structure at 
the location at which the undetonated seismic charge was abandoned. In due 
course, the prolonged effect of these forces in combination with surface 
erosion or subsurface fluid migration can disburse over a large area the 
material of a fractured explosive charge. That material constitutes a 
toxic environmental contaminant. Even if detected, extensive remedial 
activities will be required, first to contain, and then, if possible, to 
neutralize the pollutants. 
Nonetheless, no practical methods exist for reliably remediating the risks 
posed by undetonated explosive charges, particularly where those 
undetonated explosive charges are originally installed below the surface 
of the ground. 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
It is thus the broad object of the present invention to protect public 
health and safety from risks arising from incidents of abandoned 
undetonated explosive charges. 
Accordingly, it is a related object of the present invention to eliminate 
the possibility of detonation of abandoned explosive charges. 
It is a complementary object of the present invention to reduce the 
likelihood that abandoned undetonated explosive charges will contribute to 
environmental pollution. 
Thus, it is a specific object of the present invention to provide 
apparatus, systems, and methods for remediating in situ any installed 
explosive charge that fails to detonate as intended. 
It is a particular object of the present invention to provide such 
apparatus, systems, and methods as are capable of reliably and safely 
remediating an undetonated explosive charge abandoned in the ground. 
Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide such apparatus, 
systems, and methods as are capable of remediating an undetonated 
explosive charge, even if the location of the explosive charge cannot be 
ascertained with any degree of certainty. 
These and other objects and features of the present invention will become 
more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or 
will be appreciated by the practice of the invention. 
To achieve the foregoing objects, and in accordance with the invention as 
embodied and broadly described herein, apparatus, systems, and methods are 
provided that remediate in situ an undetonated explosive utilizing the 
biological activity of microorganisms. 
In one form, an apparatus incorporating teachings of the present invention 
includes a bioremediation apparatus in combination with an explosive 
material. The bioremediation apparatus includes a storage means for 
releasably containing at least one type of microorganism capable of 
degrading explosive materials. Stored distinctly therefrom in the 
bioremediation apparatus is a reservoir means for releasably containing a 
solution intended to be mixed with the microorganisms. The storage means 
is positioned proximate the reservoir means, usually in a relationship 
that is below the reservoir means in the anticipated installed orientation 
of the inventive apparatus. 
The bioremediation apparatus further includes a first valve means for 
delivering the solution from the reservoir means to the microorganisms in 
a storage means. Doing so causes hydration of the microorganisms. This 
occurs when a first valve means is opened. The first valve means is at 
least partially disposed within the reservoir means. 
Additionally, the bioremediation apparatus of the present invention 
comprises a second valve means for delivering hydrated microorganisms to 
an associated, undetonated explosive material. The second valve means is 
operably linked to the first valve means and is at least partially 
disposed within the storage means. 
The bioremediation apparatus is coupled in one embodiment of the present 
invention with an explosive apparatus that has an actuation means for 
opening the first valve means and the second valve means upon being 
coupled thereto. If the explosive material in the explosive apparatus 
fails to detonate, the explosive material will eventually be remediated by 
the action of the microorganisms released from the associated storage 
means. 
Ideally, the remediation occurs in two respects. The explosive is disabled 
from inadvertent detonation. Subsequently, the material composition of the 
explosive material is rendered nontoxic. 
In another embodiment of the invention, microorganisms are releasably 
contained by gelatin, a substance that is self-effacing when contacted by 
microorganisms under favorable conditions. For example, gelatin may be 
used to fabricate the first valve means that retains solution in the 
reservoir means of the bioremediation apparatus or the second valve means 
that retains the microorganisms in the storage means of the bioremediation 
apparatus. Alternatively, gelatin capsules containing microorganisms can 
be placed in the storage means in the bioremediation apparatus, applied 
directly to the exterior of the explosive material, or intermixed directly 
with the explosive material in an explosive apparatus. In yet another 
embodiment, microorganisms are placed directly in contact with an 
explosive material. For example, the microorganisms can be applied 
directly to the exterior of the explosive material or can be intermixed 
with the explosive material in an explosive apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
The present invention pertains to systems, apparatus, and methods for the 
in situ remediating of undetonated explosive charges. The methodology 
employs at least one type of microorganism that is capable of digesting an 
explosive material. 
According to the teachings of the present invention, an explosive charge to 
be installed, for example by being buried in the ground, is so housed in a 
casing with the microorganisms. If the explosive charge fails to detonate, 
the explosive charge can then reliably be left undisturbed, and the 
microorganisms will digest or degrade the explosive material involved. 
Preferably, the explosive will be thereby both disabled from detonation 
and detoxified. 
The terms "remediate" and "remediation" are used in the specification and 
the appended claims to refer generally to the conversion or transformation 
of an explosive material which is detonatable by shock or heat into a 
different chemical material which is less explosive or nonexplosive. The 
terms "bioremediate" and "bioremediation" are used to refer to remediation 
effected by the action of microorganisms. The present invention is thus 
one intended to bioremediate explosive materials. 
The present invention has demonstrated an immediate utility relative to 
highly explosive materials, such as trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol 
tetranitrate (PETN), cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX), and 
cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine (HMX). These are typically utilized in 
seismic charges. 
The term "bioremediable explosive" is used in the specification and the 
appended claims to refer to any explosive material which can be converted 
into a less explosive or nonexplosive material by the action of 
microorganisms, whether or not such microorganisms are explicitly 
disclosed herein. The highly explosive materials listed above are thus 
bioremediable explosives, since it has been demonstrated that at least the 
examples of microorganisms disclosed herein are capable of converting 
those high energy explosive materials into less explosive or nonexplosive 
materials. 
Currently, on the basis exclusively of the examples of microorganisms 
disclosed herein, known bioremediative explosives include at least 
explosives which are classified as organic nitroaromatics, organic 
nitramines, or organic nitric esters. Examples of organic nitroaromatics 
include TNT, hexanitrostilbene (HNS), hexanitroazobenzene (NAB), 
diaminotrinitrobenzene (DATB), and triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB). 
Examples of organic nitramines include RDX, HMX, nitroguanidine (NQ), and 
2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl). Examples of organic nitric 
esters include PETN, nitroglycerine, and ethylene glycol dinitrate. 
In one embodiment of the present invention, highly explosive materials, 
such as TNT and PETN, are converted through the action of microorganisms 
into less explosive materials that include aromatic compounds, such as 
benzene or derivatives of benzene, such as toluene. These aromatic 
compounds are intermediate chemicals in the full transformation of organic 
nitroaromatics into materials such as biomass and chemicals such as 
CO.sub.2 and N.sub.2. Optimally, the highly explosive materials are 
reduced according to the teachings of the present invention, first into 
less explosive intermediate chemicals or nonexplosive products. These 
intermediate chemicals can then be further transformed as needed into 
constituents which are either less explosive, less toxic, or less 
carcinogenic than the intermediate chemicals. The final product resulting 
from the metabolizing action of the microorganisms will thus include any 
number of combinations of elements that originated in the explosive 
material as constituted before the start of the bioremediation process. 
The microorganisms comprise a first type of microorganisms that disable or 
deactivate the explosive material by degrading the explosive material into 
less explosive materials or nonexplosive materials. The microorganisms may 
also further comprise a second type of microorganisms that further 
bioremediate any intermediate chemicals resulting from the bioremediation 
action of the first type of microorganisms to fully bioremediate the 
explosive material into nonexplosive materials. 
Although any type of microorganisms capable of converting explosive 
material into less harmful chemicals is considered to be within the scope 
of the present invention, examples of microorganisms that have been 
demonstrated to exhibit that capacity include the group consisting of 
Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, Morganella morganii, Rhodococcus spp., 
Comamonas spp., and denitrifying bacteria. It is within the scope of the 
present invention to use any combination of these particular 
microorganisms, or of any other microorganisms that are determined to be 
capable of bioremediating explosive materials. Suitable Pseudomonas spp. 
microorganisms include microorganisms in the group consisting of 
aeruginosa, fluorescens, acidovorans, mendocina, cepacia, and an 
unidentified type. 
The present invention thus utilizes any of numerous different selections of 
microorganisms capable of degrading explosive materials in any of various 
relative quantities. Each of these various selections of microorganisms 
will for convenience hereinafter and in the appended claims be referred to 
as a "microorganism consortium." In such a microorganism consortium, one 
type of microorganism can advantageously reduce the explosive material to 
a particular intermediate chemical, such as benzene, while that type or 
another type of microorganism may then further reduce the benzene to 
carbon chains or to individual carbon atoms. In one presently preferred 
embodiment, such a microorganism consortium utilizes all or some of 
various of the microorganisms belonging to Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia 
coli, Morganella morganii, Rhodococcus spp., Comamonas spp., and 
denitrifying bacteria. 
A consortium of microorganisms within the scope of the present invention 
has been deposited for the purposes of this disclosure with the American 
Type Culture Collection (hereinafter "ATCC") in accordance with the 
provisions of the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the 
Deposit Microorganisms for the Purpose of Patent Procedure. The deposited 
consortium of microorganisms was assigned ATCC Designation No. 55784. For 
purposes of this disclosure, the microorganism consortium deposited with 
the ATCC and designated ATCC Designation No. 55784 is hereby incorporated 
by reference. 
The microorganism consortium-deposited with the ATCC was obtained from 
Richards Industrial Microbiology Laboratories, Inc. (hereinafter "RIML") 
located at 55 East Center, Pleasant Grove, Utah 84062 U.S.A. The 
microorganism consortium is identified at RIML by Product No. RL-247. 
Accordingly, microorganisms sold as RL-247 by RIML under the tradename 
RL-247 and assigned ATCC Designation No. 55784 are considered to be within 
the scope of the invention disclosed herein, whether or not constituent 
microorganisms therein are explicitly identified to any degree herein. 
The microorganisms of the microorganism consortium are chosen for having a 
demonstrated ability to metabolize and degrade explosive materials in any 
way that contributes to the disabling of the explosive material or to the 
detoxification of the chemical components thereof. If microorganisms are 
selected that are both aerobic and anaerobic, bioremediation will occur in 
shallow and exposed surface locations, as well as in deep explosive 
boreholdes. Ideally, the microorganisms selected for the microorganism 
consortium should be nonpathogenic and surfactant-producing, as this 
enhances the digestive action of the microorganism colony. 
In one embodiment of a microorganism consortium chosen according to the 
teachings of the present invention, the Pseudomonas spp. are selected from 
the group consisting of aeruginosa, flourescens, acidovorans, mendocina, 
and cepacia. Any microorganisms of Pseudomonas spp. other than the 
microorganisms identified above are considered to be within the scope of 
the invention disclosed herein, provided that such microorganisms perform 
any of the functions described above having utility in the remediating of 
an explosive charge. Correspondingly, any microorganism is considered to 
be within the scope of the invention disclosed herein, provided the 
microorganism exhibits any utility relative to the bioremediating of 
explosive materials. 
Thus, the disclosure and incorporation herein of the microorganism 
consortium assigned ATCC Designation No. 55784 or the disclosure of the 
microorganism consortium available from RIML under the tradename RL-247, 
are but examples of microorganisms consortiums within the teachings of the 
present invention and are not limiting of the microorganisms that may be 
selected for inclusion in a microorganism consortium according to the 
teachings of the present invention. 
A first embodiment of an apparatus employing principles of the present 
invention is illustrated in FIG. 1 as an explosive bioremediation 
apparatus 10. Bioremediation apparatus 10 includes a casing 12 having a 
top end 14 and a bottom end 16. Casing 12 is preferably formed from a 
material which is water resistant and is capable of withstanding extremes 
of temperature. 
A cap 18 is inserted into top end 14 of casing 12. Cap 18 is preferably 
formed from a durable material that will withstand being driven down a 
borehole with a tamping pole. Cap 18 includes a cap top 20 and an external 
cap member 22 integrally extending from cap top 20 and having cap threads 
24. Cap 18 is secured about top end 14 of casing 12 by engaging cap 
threads 24 which end threads 26 that are formed on the exterior of top end 
14. Cap 18 may include an internal cap member with an O-ring or a foam 
seal so configured and positioned as to engage top end 14 of casing 12. 
This increases the security of the seal produced. 
Cap 18 is but one example of a structure capable of functioning as a cap 
means for sealing the top end of a casing, such as casing 12. Another 
example of a structure capable of performing the function of a cap means 
according to the teachings of the present invention would be a casing 
without any external cap member, but rather having an internal cap member 
that is inserted into top end 14. Alternatively, bioremediation apparatus 
10 could be provided with a structure that performs the foundation of such 
a cap means but is integrally formed with casing 12. Any such cap 
structure that is integrally formed with casing 12 from a plastic material 
should be constructed to withstand the impacts and pressure encountered in 
being pushed down a borehole. 
Bioremediation apparatus 10 is configured at bottom end 16 of casing 12 for 
coupling with an explosive apparatus shown and discussed subsequently in 
relation to FIGS. 2-6 as housing a bioremediatable explosive material. 
Bioremediation apparatus 10 also has casing threads 28 on casing 12 that 
cooperatively engage correspondingly configured threads on the explosive 
apparatus to effect the intended coupling. 
According to teachings of the present invention, microorganisms 30 capable 
of degrading explosive materials are stored in a moist condition in a 
storage means for releasably containing microorganisms. By way of example 
and not limitation, such a storage means within the scope of the present 
invention can take the form of a storage chamber 32 having sidewalls 
defined by casing 12. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, microorganisms 30 can be 
positioned on a ring formed from starch and flour, bran, or another 
similar material. Storing microorganisms 30 in a moist condition in 
storage chamber 32 increases the shelf life of microorganisms 30. 
Microorganisms 30 are not hydrated until bioremediation apparatus 10 is 
actually coupled with an explosive apparatus which is preferably in the 
field at the time of the intended detonation of the charge in that 
explosive apparatus. In addition to a ring configuration, microorganisms 
30 can be positioned in contact with materials such as starch, flour, or 
bran assuming any other arrangement. Microorganisms 30 can also be placed 
in storage chamber 32 without nutrients, such as starch, flour or bran, so 
long as bioremediation apparatus 10 is intended to be used within the 
expected lifetime of the microorganisms 30 if unnourished. 
Microorganisms 30 are hydrated by a solution 34 stored in a reservoir means 
for releasably containing solution. Solution 34 may be water or a nutrient 
medium that can feed microorganisms 30, but solution 34 is resistant to 
freezing at ambient temperatures. By way of example and not limitation, a 
reservoir means within the scope of the present invention can take the 
form of a reservoir chamber 36. Reservoir chamber 36 has sidewalls defined 
by the interior of casing 12 and a top defined by cap 18. Reservoir 
chamber 36 also includes a solution passage 38 defined by the interior of 
a neck 40. Neck 40 is an integral portion of casing 12 and has a diameter 
that tapers radially inwardly from the outer diameter of the sidewalls of 
reservoir chamber 36 to a smaller diameter, as observed to best advantage 
in FIG. 3. 
Preferably, storage chamber 32 is positioned below reservoir chamber 36 in 
the anticipated orientation of bioremediation apparatus 10 when coupled to 
and installed with explosive apparatus 60. Storage chamber 32 is capable 
of communication with reservoir chamber 36 through solution passage 38. 
Storage chamber 32 is provided with a bioremediation outlet 42 that is 
formed through bottom end 16 of casing 12 and through a sleeve member 44 
which protrudes from bottom end 16 of casing 12. Accordingly, 
bioremediation outlet 42 is a portal or opening through casing 12 that is 
in communication with storage chamber 32. 
Microorganisms 30 are hydrated by solution 34 upon the opening of a first 
valve means for delivering solution 34 from reservoir chamber 36 to 
storage chamber 32. By way of example and not limitation, a first valve 
means according to the teachings of the present invention can take the 
form of a first valve 46 which comprises the interior of neck 40 and a 
first valve member 48. A tapered end 50 is formed around the perimeter of 
first valve member 48 corresponding in dimension the interior of neck 40. 
The cooperation of these structures forms a seal within solution passage 
38. 
When first valve 46 is closed as shown in FIG. 3, first valve 46 is at 
least partially disposed within reservoir chamber 36. More particularly, 
when first valve 46 is closed, first valve 46 is positioned between 
reservoir chamber 36 and storage chamber 32 and within solution passage 38 
with first valve member 48 defining the bottom of reservoir chamber 36 and 
the top of storage chamber 32. The seal formed within solution passage 38 
by first valve 46 thereby retains solution 34 in reservoir chamber 36 
until first valve 46 is opened. 
Once hydrated, microorganisms 30 flow out of storage chamber 32 upon the 
opening of a second valve means for delivering hydrated microorganisms to 
an explosive material in an explosive apparatus. By way of example and not 
limitation, a second valve means according to the teachings of the present 
invention can take the form of a second valve 52 which includes a second 
valve member 54 in combination with sleeve member 44. Second valve 52 
defines the bottom of storage chamber 32 and is the lower end of a valve 
connector 56 that extends through bioremediation outlet 42 in sleeve 
member 44. Valve connector 56 has an upper end that is connected to first 
valve member 48. 
When second valve 52 is closed as shown in FIG. 3, second valve 52 is at 
least partially disposed within storage chamber 32. More particularly, 
when closed, second valve 52 is positioned at the bottom of storage 
chamber 32 within bioremediation outlet 42. Second valve member 54 forms a 
seal with sleeve member 44 in bioremediation outlet 42, thereby to retain 
hydrated microorganisms 30 in storage chamber 32 until second valve 52 is 
opened. The security of the seal is increased by a valve O-ring 58, which 
encircles second valve member 54. 
Valve connector 56 can best be seen in FIG. 3 to connect first valve member 
48 and second valve member 54. The length of valve connector 56 is 
selected to enable first valve 46 and second valve 52 to open and close 
according to a predetermined timing relationship. Thus, first valve 46, 
second valve 52, and valve connector 56 can be configured to effect the 
simultaneous opening or actuation of first valve 46 and second valve 52. 
Alternatively, first valve 46, second valve 52, and valve connector 56 can 
be designed to actuate one of the valves in a delayed manner, after the 
other valve has been actuated. It may be desirable for example, to allow 
solution 34 to fully hydrate microorganisms 30 by opening first valve 46, 
and only thereafter to open second valve 52. 
When microorganisms 30 and solution 34 are securely sealed in separate 
spaces as shown in FIG. 3, bioremediation apparatus 10 can be shipped and 
stored for long periods without any significant decrease in the 
bioremediating effectiveness thereof. The configuration of bioremediation 
apparatus 10 is designed for easy combination with a conventional 
explosive, such as a seismic booster. 
FIGS. 2 and 3 depict bioremediation apparatus 10 in the process of being 
coupled with an explosive apparatus 60. FIG. 2 is a perspective view, and 
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 3--3 of FIG. 2. 
As best illustrated in FIG. 3, first valve member 48 and second valve 
member 54 remain in closed positions when bioremediation apparatus 10 is 
initially threaded into explosive apparatus 60. 
Explosive apparatus 60 comprises a shell 62 having an open end 64 and an 
explosive material 66 housed within shell 62. The interior of shell 62 is 
provided with shell threads 70 near open end 64. These cooperate with 
correspondingly configured casing threads 28 on bioremediation apparatus 
10. Shell 62 can be formed from distinct components or as an integral 
structure as shown. 
The combination of casing threads 28 and shell threads 70 together serve as 
an example of a coupling means for coupling a bioremediation apparatus 
according to the teachings of the present invention with an explosive 
apparatus, such as explosive apparatus 60. In the embodiment illustrated, 
the function of such a coupling means is performed by an extension of 
casing 12 of bioremediation apparatus 10 and an extension of shell 62 of 
explosive apparatus 60. Alternatively configured structures can, however, 
perform the function of such a coupling means. 
For example, a wedge fit can be effected between bioremediation apparatus 
10 and explosive apparatus 60 using respective angled male and female 
parts attached, respectively, to each. While the coupling means is 
primarily a mechanism to join bioremediation apparatus 10 and explosive 
apparatus 60, it is within the teachings of the present invention to 
provide structures that prevent bioremediation apparatus 10 and explosive 
apparatus 60 from being unintentionally separated, thereby performing the 
function of a locking means for securing bioremediation apparatus 10 and 
explosive apparatus 60 against the disengagement of the coupling together 
thereof. 
Explosive apparatus 60 further comprises a capwell 72 positioned in open 
end 64 to receive detonators 74. Detonators 74 are in turn electrically 
connected by wires 76 to the exterior of shell 62 through wire access 
openings 78 shown in FIG. 2. A bioremediation portal 80 formed through 
capwell 72 communicates with explosive material 66 to afford access by 
hydrated microorganisms 30 from bioremediation outlet 42 to explosive 
material 66. A portal member 82 extends upwardly as shown in FIG. 3 from 
the center of capwell 72, encircling and defining on the interior thereof 
bioremediation portal 80. A portal O-ring 84 encircles portal member 82 to 
provide a fluid seal between sleeve member 44 and portal member 82 when 
explosive bioremediation apparatus 10 is coupled with explosive apparatus 
60. 
FIGS. 4 and 5 depict bioremediation apparatus 10 immediately after becoming 
completely coupled with explosive apparatus 60. FIG. 4 is a perspective 
view, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 5--5 
of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 illustrates to best advantage that as a result of the 
coupling of bioremediation apparatus 10 with explosive apparatus 60, first 
valve 46 and second valve 52 have been opened. Solution 34 is shown being 
delivered by gravity from reservoir chamber 36 through solution passage 38 
to storage chamber 32. 
As bioremediation apparatus 10 is being coupled with explosive apparatus 
60, sleeve member 44 and portal member 82 advance toward each other until 
portal member 82 is positioned within sleeve member 44. A fluid seal is 
formed between sleeve member 44 and portal member 82 by portal O-ring 84. 
The advancement of bioremediation apparatus 10 brings portal member 82 
into abutment against second valve member 54. As valve connector 56 
effects a rigid interconnected relationship between second valve member 54 
and first valve member 48, further advancement of bioremediation apparatus 
10 into and toward explosive apparatus 60 forces second valve member 54 
out of bioremediation outlet 42 and forces first valve member 48 out of 
solution passage 38. 
Sleeve member 44, second valve member 54, and portal member 82 can have any 
lengths that enable first valve 46 and second valve 52 to be opened. In 
the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, portal member 82 and second valve 
member 54 each have a length that is less than the length of sleeve member 
44, and the length of portal member 82 is approximately equal to or 
greater than the length of second valve member 54. 
Forcing second valve member 54 and first valve member 48 upward within 
casing 12 opens a flow path that permits hydrated microorganisms 30 to 
contact explosive material 66 through bioremediation portal 80 as shown in 
FIG. 6. 
First valve member 48, second valve member 54, and valve connector 56 form 
a divider which is preferably formed at least partially from a lightweight 
material such as polyethylene. The divider in this manner preferably has a 
lower density than water. This enables the divider to float to the top of 
the solution of microorganisms as shown in FIG. 6 after the solution has 
flowed into contact with explosive material 66. 
The divider formed by first valve member 48, second valve member 54, and 
valve connector 56 is an example of a divider means for releasing 
microorganisms to an explosive material according to the teachings of the 
present invention. In an alternative embodiment, the divider means can 
take the form of a valve means for delivering the hydrated microorganisms 
from a storage means to an explosive material in a storage chamber of an 
explosive apparatus. The microorganisms are in a moist condition or in 
solution. Such an alternative embodiment accordingly utilizes but a single 
chamber and a single valve. 
Portal member 82 is an example of an actuation means for initiating contact 
between hydrated microorganisms and an explosive material by opening first 
valve 46 and second valve 52. In an alternative embodiment, portal member 
82 has a length greater than sleeve member 44, thereby rendering 
unnecessary any second valve member extending within sleeve member 44 to 
align portal member 82 for contact with the second valve member. In an 
additional alternative embodiment, second valve 52 is configured similarly 
to first valve 46. In this additional alternative embodiment, second valve 
52 has a valve member within bioremediation outlet 42 that does not extend 
downward, and there is no sleeve member to provide alignment for portal 
member 82 in contacting the valve member to actuate second valve 52. Any 
structure capable of initiating access by hydrated microorganisms 30 to 
explosive material 66 is within the scope of the actuation means of the 
present invention. 
The actuation means and the coupling means are taken together exemplary of 
a contact means for initiating and maintaining contact between hydrated 
microorganisms and an explosive material. 
The coupling of bioremediation apparatus 10 with explosive apparatus 60 
forms a system for in situ bioremediating of an explosive material. The 
system can be lowered into or driven down a borehole by contacting cap 18 
with a tamping pole. Additionally, an anchor member 90 shown only in FIG. 
6 can be positioned about casing 12 to maintain the system in the upright 
position illustrated during installation of the system at the bottom of a 
borehole. Anchor member 90 is preferably a disc circumferentially 
encircling casing 12 and extending perpendicularly outwardly therefrom. 
The longitudinal position of anchor member 90 along the length of casing 
12 is maintained as shown in FIG. 6 by the increase in the outer diameter 
of casing 12 above anchor member 90. 
If desired, once the system is positioned and sealed in the bottom of a 
borehole, the balance of the extent of the borehole is loaded with a 
backfill of inert matter. The backfill process is one of the primary 
causes of the failure of installed explosives to detonate. In the process, 
wires 76 are often broken or disconnected from detonators 74, so that 
detonation cannot occur. When this happens, the digestion of explosive 
material 66 by microorganisms 30 will proceed in due course. Eventually, 
explosive material 66 will be reduced to nonexplosive and non-toxic 
materials that are neither detonatable by any activities in the vicinity, 
nor are an environmental contaminant. 
Over time, by exposing an undetonated charge to the microorganisms, the 
entirety of the explosive material of the charge is reduced to a substance 
that cannot be detonated. In the illustrated embodiments of the present 
invention, the digestive activity of microorganisms 30 disarms explosive 
material 66 by first attacking the area around the capwell end of the 
explosive apparatus. This is where detonation is actually initiated. There 
is, however, is no overall detrimental effect on the ability of an 
explosive charge to be detonated immediately after being initially 
contacted by bioremediating microorganisms. The initial activity of the 
microorganisms in the vicinity of the capwell does prevent accidental 
detonation of the explosive charge caused by way of any structure, such as 
one of wires 76, that was originally coupled to the explosive charge 
through the cap wall. 
The time period required for the microorganisms to first disable an 
explosive, and then to fully remediate a given quantity of intermediate 
chemical materials depends on the amount and type of explosive material 
used, as well as the composition of microorganism consortium used 
therewith. Depending on design, relative concentrations of the explosive, 
the time required can be days, weeks, months, or years. 
FIGS. 7 and 8 depict a second embodiment of a system for in situ 
bioremediating of an explosive according to teachings of the present 
invention. The system shown there comprises a bioremediation apparatus 100 
and an explosive apparatus 110. Components shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 that are 
identical to the components shown in FIGS. 1-6 are identified with the 
same reference characters as are the corresponding components in FIGS. 
1-6. 
Bioremediation apparatus 100 has a cap 18, a spacer 112, and an anchor 
member 90 that encircles top end 14 of casing 12. Cap 18 and a spacer 112 
are configured to maintain anchor member 90 on a nib 114. Cap 18 has cap 
threads 24 which cooperate with end threads 26 around top end 14 of casing 
12 to seal top end 14 of casing 12. Spacer 112 is positioned between cap 
18 and anchor member 90. Spacer 112 has a bottom portion not shown in the 
figures that is positioned within the top end of anchor member 90. When 
the system of FIGS. 7 and 8 is pushed down a borehole with a tamping pole, 
anchor member 90 cannot be dislodged from nib 114, since anchor member 90 
abuts spacer 112, and cap 18 retains spacer 112 in position. 
Solution 34 is contained in reservoir chamber 36 and is released to hydrate 
microorganism 30 in storage chamber 32 when a first valve 116 in solution 
passage 38 is opened. First valve 116 comprises the interior of neck 40 
and a first valve member 118. First valve member 118 has a lip end 120 
around the perimeter of first valve member 118. Lip end 120 is tapered to 
correspond to the dimensions of the interior of neck 40 and is flexible, 
thereby to form a fluid seal with solution passage 38. 
A second valve 122 comprises a second valve member 124 and a lip seal 
member 126. Second valve member 124 is the tapered bottom end of a valve 
connector 128. Lip seal member 126 extends from sleeve member 44 into 
bioremediation outlet 42 to form a fluid seal with second valve member 
124. 
First valve member 118 is integrally formed with valve connector 128, and 
valve connector 128 is integral with second valve member 124. Accordingly, 
first valve member 118, valve connector 128, and second valve member 124 
together form an integral divider. In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 
1-6, the first valve means is also connected to the second valve means, as 
first valve member 48 and second valve member 54 are connected by valve 
connector 56. Thus, both in the first embodiment of FIGS. 1-6 and in the 
second embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, at least a portion or a component of each 
valve means is connected to at least a portion or a component of the other 
valve means. 
The coupling means for coupling a bioremediation apparatus with an 
explosive apparatus, such as the combination of casing threads 28 and 
shell threads 70 as shown in FIGS. 1-8, may further comprise a means for 
indicating the position of the valves. In the preferred embodiment, casing 
12 has a bump not shown in the figures that causes a clicking noise when 
portal member 82 contacts the second valve member after casing threads 28 
and shell threads 70 are advanced over each other. The clicking noise 
informs a user that the bioremediation apparatus and the explosive 
apparatus are coupled. 
In yet additional alternative embodiments of apparatus incorporating the 
teachings of the present invention, a material such as gelatin, which is 
slowly self-effacing in the presence of microorganisms, is used to contain 
at least the microorganisms of the microorganism consortium. Thus, for 
example, it is within the scope of the present invention to perform the 
functions of either or both a first or second valve means according to the 
present invention using valve members comprised of a material, such as 
gelatin, which eventually degrades and releases the microorganisms. 
Alternatively, microorganisms encapsulated in gelatin may be releasably 
contained as in a storage means of the present invention for eventual 
contact with an explosive material. In another alternative embodiment, 
microorganisms encapsulated in gelatin are placed directly in contact with 
an explosive material. 
Another method for reliably eliminating the hazards associated with 
undetonated explosives includes utilizing between explosive material 66 
and microorganisms 30 a barrier designed to deteriorate within a 
reasonable, predetermined time. Careful structural and material design of 
such a barrier can produce relatively precisely timed releases. 
Microorganisms 30 are initially hydrated or are eventually hydrated when 
combined with a solution, such as solution 34. The barrier releases 
microorganisms 30, alone or in solution 34, to react with explosive 
material 66. Similar, effacing barriers can to advantage be interposed 
between solution 34 and microorganisms 30. 
For example, microorganisms can be contained within a gelatin capsule which 
is placed on the explosive charge at the time of the installation of the 
explosive charge in a borehole. An example of a time release barrier which 
is a micro-scale bioremediation apparatus is a gelatin capsule containing 
microorganisms alone or in combination with moisture and nutrients that is 
pressed into the explosive charge at the time that the charge is 
manufactured as shown in FIG. 9. 
FIG. 9 illustrates an explosive apparatus 140 incorporating some of these 
teachings. Gelatin capsules 150 are shown containing a solution 152 of 
microorganisms, water, and nutrients, and dispersed throughout an 
explosive material 142 housed in a shell 62. Gelatin capsules 150 can be 
randomly dispersed, as shown, or concentrated as needed to initially and 
quickly deactivate the explosive charge. Explosive apparatus 140 is shown 
with an optional cap 160 and access openings 162 for wires 76. 
Another method for reliably remediating undetonated explosive material 
involves intermixing microorganisms with the explosive material to produce 
a mixture that is then shaped into an explosive charge that will 
bioremediate automatically within a predetermined time following 
manufacture. A corresponding apparatus is shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 
depicts a second embodiment of an explosive apparatus 140 having a mixture 
of explosive material 170 and shards 172 of a moist nutrient wafer 
containing microorganisms. 
The systems shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, as well as comparable systems and 
methods, are not activated in the field and do not require the coupling of 
a distinct bioremediation apparatus with a corresponding explosive 
apparatus. Nonetheless, the systems so configured do have a shelf life, as 
each system will be disabled in due course, whether or not implanted or 
used at all. 
The degradation rate is controlled by varying the amount and types of 
explosive material and the selection of microorganisms in the 
microorganism consortium. 
Yet another method of bioremediating explosives involves installing an 
explosive charge in a detonation site, such as a borehole, and then 
positioning microorganisms around the explosive charge by depositing 
microorganisms directly on the explosive charge and the detonation site. 
Similarly, a solution of microorganisms can be deposited at a detonation 
site in solution form. Then the explosive charge is placed in the solution 
of microorganisms. Additionally, an explosive apparatus can be sprayed 
with or soaked in a solution of microorganisms before being installed at a 
given detonation site. 
Experiments were conducted to study the process of remediating explosive 
materials according to the teachings of the present invention. To do so, a 
microorganism consortium was derived from soil and water samples obtained 
on the property of an established explosive manufacturer located at 8305 
South Highway 6, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660 U.S.A. The microorganism 
consortium in the form of an aqueous solution was combined with various 
types of explosive materials, either in solid form or in an aqueous 
suspension, and the results were observed and documented. The results of 
several of these tests are set forth below as examples. 
EXAMPLE 1 
Quantities of the explosive materials TNT and PETN in water were combined 
with the aqueous solution of the microorganism consortium. The resulting 
mixture initially included 47.23 ppm of PETN and 40.63 PPM of TNT. The 
mixture was divided among containers that were stored in aerobic 
conditions at ambient temperature for various time periods. Table 1 below 
indicates the explosive analysis of these samples after each designated 
time interval. The explosive materials were substantially degraded after a 
period of five weeks. 
TABLE 1 
______________________________________ 
Aerobic Bioremediation of TNT and PETN 
Explosive 
Initial Analysis After 
Analysis After 
Material Analysis 3 Days 5 Weeks 
______________________________________ 
PETN 47.23 ppm 40.94 ppm 7.25 ppm 
TNT 40.63 ppm 5.32 ppm 0.62 ppm 
______________________________________ 
EXAMPLE 2 
The mixture prepared in Example 1 was stored in anaerobic conditions at 
ambient temperature and observed. The results were determined by HPLC 
analysis in ppm and averaged. Table 2 below sets forth the results 
obtained. As can be seen by comparing the results in Table 2 with the 
results in Table 1, the explosive materials tested remediated more rapidly 
under anaerobic conditions than under aerobic conditions. 
TABLE 2 
______________________________________ 
Anaerobic Bioremediation of PETN and TNT 
Analysis Analysis 
Analysis 
Explosive 
Initial after 3 after 1 
after 5 
Material Analysis Days Week Weeks 
______________________________________ 
PETN 47.23 ppm 
28.31 ppm 24.46 ppm 
0.82 ppm 
TNT 40.63 ppm 
0.31 ppm 0.31 ppm 
None 
avg. avg. 
______________________________________ 
EXAMPLE 3 
Discs of the explosive material Pentolite having a diameter of a pencil 
were split in two. When the discs were split each weighed about 0.1 gram. 
The discs were placed either in water as a control or in 6 ml to 8 ml of 
an aqueous solution of a microorganism consortium. After a specific amount 
of time in aerobic conditions, the discs were dried and weighed or 
analyzed by HPLC. The liquid portions were analyzed by HPLC. The net 
remediated weight loss in the explosive material was determined by 
subtracting the control weight loss as a percentage from the weight loss 
as a percentage in each remediated explosive. The explosive loss by 
degradation is listed in Table 3 for each of the samples. 
TABLE 3 
______________________________________ 
Aerobic Bioremediation of Pentolite 
Final dry 
weight plus 
weight of 
explosive 
Net 
Sample 
Sample Initial 
in liquid 
Remediated 
No. or Test Time Weight portion. 
Weight Loss 
______________________________________ 
A Control 22 days 0.1355 g 
0.1266 g = 
6.97% Net 
6.57% loss 
Loss 
Test 22 days 0.0981 g 
0.0848 g = 
13.54% loss 
B Control 88 days 0.0578 g 
0.0557 g = 
5.52% Net 
3.63% loss 
Explosive 
Test 88 days 0.0743 g 
0.0675 g = 
Loss 
9.15% 
C Control 173 days 0.1236 g 
0.1236 g = 
6.78% Net 
no loss Explosive 
Test 173 days 0.0737 g 
0.0687 g = 
Loss 
6.78% loss 
______________________________________ 
EXAMPLE 4 
Experiments were conducted to compare remediation rates under aerobic and 
anaerobic conditions. Separate 5 gram samples of PETN/TNT Pentolite in a 
ratio of 60:40 were analyzed and placed in 100 ml to 300 ml of an aqueous 
solution of a microorganism consortium. One was subjected to aerobic 
conditions; the other was subjected to anaerobic conditions. After various 
periods of time the samples were removed, air dried, and weighed to 
determine the amount of explosive material that had not degraded. The 
weight of the remaining explosive material was subtracted from original 
weight to determine the weight of the explosive material lost due to 
bioremediation. The results are listed in Table 4 below. 
TABLE 4 
______________________________________ 
Aerobic and Anaerobic Bioremediation of Pentolite 
Condition: Percent Percent 
Aerobic Wt Loss Wt Loss 
or Original at Time at Time 
Anaerobic 
Weight Time listed Time Listed 
______________________________________ 
Aerobic 5.015 g 66 days 3.21% 163 days 
5.43% 
Anaerobic 
6.9027 g -- -- 179 days 
3.10% 
______________________________________ 
EXAMPLE 5 
Also investigated was the remediation according to the present invention of 
low levels of explosive materials in water. The explosive materials RDX 
and PETN were mixed with the water, combined with an aqueous solution of a 
microorganism consortium, and then stored. The samples were tested by HPLC 
for explosive content initially and after 2 weeks. As shown in Table 5 
below the bioremediation was nearly complete after two weeks. 
TABLE 5 
______________________________________ 
Bioremediation of Aqueous Solution of RDX and PETN 
Explosive Initial Analysis 
Material Analysis after 2 weeks 
______________________________________ 
RDX 6.6 ppm Not detected 
PETN 25.0 ppm Less than 0.5 ppm 
______________________________________ 
EXAMPLE 6 
The remediation according to the present invention of soil contaminated 
with an explosive material was also investigated. Soil contaminated with 
the explosive material PETN was mixed with an aqueous solution of a 
microorganism consortium and stored at ambient temperature. Samples were 
analyzed initially, after 44 days, and finally after 125 days. The PETN 
content in the soil dropped from 1659 ppm to 551 ppm. The results are set 
forth in Table 6 below. 
TABLE 6 
______________________________________ 
Bioremediation of Soil Contaminated with PETN 
Analysis Analysis 
Initial after after 
Analysis 44 Days 125 Days 
______________________________________ 
1659.2 ppm 1193.2 ppm 
551.8 ppm 
______________________________________ 
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without 
departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described 
embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrated and 
not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by 
the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes 
which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are 
to be embraced within their scope.