BioAugmentation vs.  BioStimulation
BioAugmentation is addition of naturally occurring microbes to contaminated materials and sites. Whereas BioStimulation is the modification of contaminated materials and sites to enhance the growth of indigenous microbes already present. It can include the use of fertilizers and other nutrients in an attempt to stimulate the microbes. This method presumes that the correct microbes are present. BioAugmentation doesn't take any chances and insures that the correct microbes are added in sufficient quantities. Oppenheimer Biotechnology specializes in BioAugmentation.

Closeup of microbes inside an oil droplet.
 

BioAugmentation

BioStimulation
1. Adds highly concentrated and specialized populations of specific microbes. 1. Is dependent on appropriate indigenous microbial population and organic material present.
2. Can be applied with minimal cost, disruption and time. Under buildings, parking lots etc.. 2. Modifies the environment to enhance the growth of indigenous microbes.
3. A simple test can be used for biocompatibility and biodegradation efficiency. This test can be done at a minimal cost. 3. Testing the ability of indigenous microbes can require complex, potentially costly, analytical methods to measure density and nutrient content.
4. Sites can be cleaned and closed rapidly within budget amounts and within or under target dates. 4. Sites cannot always be cleaned and closed rapidly within budget amounts and target dates.

 It has been our experience that, when correctly applied BioAugmentation is more effective, faster, and less costly than BioStimulation. For a more detailed report on BioAugmentation.
 
 

The success of our BioAugmentation approach is evident from worldwide remediation projects that have successfully met local, national, and international cleanup requirements. Using Oppenheimer microbes reduces the response time, the time on site, and is non-invasive to the environment.