Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Biodegradation of N-nitrosodimethylamine in soil from a water reclamation facility

January 1, 2005

The potential introduction of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) into groundwater during water reclamation activities poses a significant risk to groundwater drinking supplies. Greater than 54% biodegradation of N-[methyl-14C]NDMA to 14CO2 or to 14CO2 and 14CH4 was observed in soil from a water reclamation facility under oxic or anoxic conditions, respectively. Likewise, biodegradation was significant in microcosms containing soil with no history of NDMA contamination. These results indicate that aerobic and anaerobic biodegradation of NDMA may be an effective component of NDMA attenuation in water reclamation facility soils.

Publication Year 2005
Title Biodegradation of N-nitrosodimethylamine in soil from a water reclamation facility
DOI 10.1080/10889860500276607
Authors Paul M. Bradley, Steve A. Carr, Rodger B. Baird, Francis H. Chapelle
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Bioremediation Journal
Index ID 70184381
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Toxic Substances Hydrology Program