Frequently Asked Questions about MicroSorb®

Q: What is bioremediation?
A: This term refers to any method that uses microbes to recycle organic materials.

Q: What is MicroSorb®?
A: MicroSorb® is a special formula designed to optimize the recycling phenomena with the addition of oil-eating microbes. It contains naturally occurring microbes that convert the contaminant into non-toxic components, thereby eliminating the problem of disposal. These microbes are housed in an inert fine powder carrier which absorbs and locks in the contaminant during remediation. The naturally cultured microbes then consume and convert the contaminant.

Q: What exactly are "oil-eating microbes"?
A: They are microbes that have been collected from natural water and soil sources from around the world. They are selected for their particular affinity for consuming hydrocarbon-based products.

Q: Do the microbes need extra special treatment?
A: They only need what most forms of life need: oxygen, water, food (hydrocarbons) and an acceptable temperature (28° - 140°F) and pH (5.50 - 10.00).

Q: What happens to the microbes after the oil or fuel has been consumed?
A: The microbes will either die, return to former natural concentration levels, or be eaten by other organisms.

Q: What are the final by-products?
A: Carbon dioxide, water, trace carbon, fatty acids, and bacterial cells.

Q: How rapidly does it work?
A: The microbes begin working immediately, once activated by salt water or fresh water. Remediation times vary from several hours to several weeks depending on the type and concentration of the hydrocarbon. For example, light fuels floating on water will be gone within a few hours. Heavy crude oil in soil will require several months.

Q: Can this product be used wet or dry?
A: Yes, the product can be used in either a wet (slurry) or dry (powder) form.

Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes, MicroSorb® is 100% environmentally safe, non-toxic, and contains no pathogens.

Q: Does the product have any other benefits?
A: Yes. MicroSorb®'s ability to absorb and lock up spills almost immediately prevents further spread of the contaminant, and immediately lowers the flash point (volatility).

Q: Why does the product smell like oil?
A: The microbes in MicroSorb® are fed crude oil to ensure they will eat hydrocarbons when used on spills.

Q: Will these microbes begin consuming materials other than those which are intended?
A: No, they will not mutate and start converting any material other than the specific contaminant to which they have been applied.

Q: Are microbes dangerous to my health?
A: No, microbes are found everywhere in the environment, and are the original recyclers of organic materials. The average human adult carries approximately 3 lbs. of microbes on and in the body.

Q: Are humans or wildlife adversely affected by the use of this product?
A: No, the by-products produced by these microbes are used as an energy source by higher organisms. Intensive lab tests have shown no toxic side effects.

Q: What happens if I ingest or inhale the products?
A: It will taste like mud, could make you sneeze, but it is non-toxic and harmless.

Q: Where can I order MicroSorb®?
A: Right here! Contact us through our Web form, our listed information, or by e-mail.

 

© 1996-2002 MicroSorb Environmental Products, Inc. All rights reserved.

Download the MicroSorb Brochure