Degradation of Nitroguanidine in Soils

Abstract : The degradation of nitroguanidine in soil was studied with continuous flow soil columns. Nitroguanidine was biodegraded if sufficient supplemental carbon was provided in the wastewater. The primary product formed during the biodegradation of nitroguanidine in soil was ammonia. Only trace concentrations of nitrosoguanidine were detected and no significant levels of other organic- nitrogen compounds, nitrates or nitrites were present in column leachates. These results indicate that land applied process water laden with nitroguanidine can be successfully treated on a short-term basis with minimal impact on soils and groundwater. It is imperative however, to provide sufficient supplemental carbon for this process, otherwise the nitroguanidine will not degrade and will leach directly into groundwaters. Preliminary work with guanidine nitrate showed this compound to be biodegradable under anaerobic conditions, but this process will most likely also require supplemental carbon. Recommendations for monitoring requirements with a land application system are provided as well as and alternative solution for long-term treatment of nitroguanidine manufacturing wastewaters.