A COMPANY PROFILE

A COMPANY PROFILE TABLE OF CONTENTS CORPORATE OVERVIEW ……………………………………………………….. 1 Bioremediation Biocatalysis – Redefining Bioremediation Applicability FITON’S INTEGRATED BIO SERVICES …………………………………….. 4 Developing Conceptual Model Process and Biotreatability Testing Bioremediation System Design Remedial Construction and Operation Bioremediation Monitoring Program Support Services Regulatory Interaction Site Assessment BIOCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF INDUSTRIAL WASTES …………………. 7 Treatment Through Biocatalysis The Process Example: Steel Mill Sludge The Cost BIOREMEDIATION OF INORGANIC CONTAMINANTS ………………………… 9 LANDFILL LEACHATE TREATMENT …………………………………….. 10 Innovative Bioremediation The Process OIL SPILL CLEANUP/OIL TANKER SLUDGE REMOVAL …………………. 12 Bioremediation The Technology Petroleum Spill Cleanup Shoreline Cleanup Oil Tanker Sludge Removal The Cost i TABLE OF CONTENTS BIOREMEDIATION OF PCBs ……………………………………………………….. . 14 Bioremediation The Technology PCB Contamination BIOCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF ACID MINE WATERS/TAILINGS ………… 16 Methodology of the Fiton Bioremediation System Examples BIOCATALYTIC REMEDIATION OF SOIL & GROUNDWATER …………………... 21 Bioremediation Bioremediation Primer In Situ Soil Bioremediation In Situ Groundwater Bioremediation Ex Situ Soil Bioremediation THE BIOREMEDIATION LEGACY ……………………………………………….. 23 Fiton’s Unique Process Redefines Bioremediation Broad Applicability Selection of Microbes to Cultivate What is Fiton? How is Fiton Different? The Cost THE FITON ADVANTAGE ……………………………………………….. 25 Appendix A ii CORPORATE OVERVIEW Fiton Technologies Corp. is a Canadian-headquartered remediation company based in Toronto, Ontario. We are engaged in bioremediation projects in many countries around the globe. Fiton’s mission is to apply cleanup technologies which provide lasting solutions to some of the most serious contaminant problems confronting mankind. We accomplish this by integrating our innovative and novel process with the practical, international skills of our experienced engineers and scientists to solve environmental remediation problems and eliminate or minimize existing/potential future liabilities. Bioremediation Bioremediation is the cornerstone in Fiton’s repertoire of remediation technologies and has been an accepted treatment process that uses naturally occurring microorganisms (usually bacteria) to break down, or degrade, hazardous substances into less toxic or nontoxic matter. Micro-organisms, like humans, eat and digest organic substances for nutrients and energy. Certain bacteria can digest organic substances, such as fuels or solvents, that are hazardous to humans. They break down these organic contaminants into harmless products (primarily carbon dioxide and water). Once the contaminants are degraded, the bacteria population declines sharply because it has consumed its entire food source. The end products pose no contamination risk. Bioremediation has been proven effective for treating soil and groundwater contamination at numerous sites throughout the world, and is accepted as a viable remediation strategy by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Environment Canada and other regulatory agencies worldwide. Bioremediation is an important soil and groundwater remediation strategy because it: • • • Harnesses naturally occurring biochemical processes; Destroys or breaks down targeted contaminants rather than transferring them from one environment to another; and Conserves financial resources due to shortened cleanup times and/or lower capital expenditures relative to other remediation technologies. Biocatalysis – Redefining Bioremediation Fiton Technologies has integrated third-generation family horticultural secrets with fundamental research and innovative engineering applications to produce a proprietary breakthrough bioremediation technology called Biocatalysis. 1 Fiton Technologies Corp. Corporate Overview The breakthrough effectiveness of Biocatalysis has given Fiton Technologies a true technology lead in terms of speed, price and efficiency in the quest for environmentally benign, community-friendly solutions. Our bioremediation process uses natural acclimated microbes and proprietary nutrients, including a biostimulant called Fiton, to convert organic contaminants which are sometimes complex and toxic, to simple inorganics such as carbon dioxide and water. The biocatalysis process has been described broadly as cold-burning due to its unmatched speed. The biostimulant, Fiton, is the trade-secreted mixture that is the key to biocatalysis. Fiton is a colorless liquid nutrient, which fosters the rapid replication of microbes and also enables them to function under aerobic and hypoxic conditions, in which oxygen is scarce or practically nonexistent. Fiton enables microbes to perform a series/combination of biochemical reactions not easily achievable by conventional means. The use of Fiton accelerates biochemical activities by several orders of magnitude and thus enables cleanups to be completed in relatively short timeframes. Fiton, along with other bioremediation ingredients, is manufactured in a dry powdered form by Fiton Technologies. The ingredients are then bagged and transported to the contaminated site, where they are re-hydrated in fresh water or sea water, depending on the available source of water. Applicability We can offer engineered custom solutions to metabolize contaminants in soil, surface water or groundwater. It has been proven effective around the world using various in situ and ex situ techniques. This robust technology is applicable to a wide array of contamination problems, including: Petroleum Spill Cleanup Industrial Waste Streams Landfill Wastes Contaminated Soil Surface & Groundwater Manufactured Gas Plant Sites Acid Mine Drainage Brownfields The technology is also capable of treating a variety of aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons, which include, but are not limited to: Crude Oil Coal Tar Kerosene Creosote Herbicides Grease & Oil PCB BTEX PAH PCP Diesel Fuels Gasoline Dioxin TCE Pesticides Through a secondary treatment process, certain inorganic compounds such as cyanides, sulfides and some metals which bioadsorb onto the conditioned microbes can also be extracted. 2 Fiton Technologies Corp. Corporate Overview The Fiton process is also capable of breaking down and transforming a considerable number of explosives typically found at munitions dumps or manufacturing sites into harmless inorganic compounds. These explosives include: 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) 2,6-dinitrotoluene (2,6-DNT) 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2A-4, 6-DNT) 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4A-2,6-DNT) Triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) Nitrobenzene (NB) Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-trizine (RDX) Octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (Picric Acid) Additional advantages of the Fiton technology over other conventional technologies are listed in Appendix A. 3 FITON’S INTEGRATED BIOSERVICES Fiton Technologies provides advanced, comprehensive and reliable environmental bioservices ranging from laboratory assessments and treatability studies to full-scale implementation and closure certification, including regulatory interface support. Internationally recognized, Fiton Technologies has completed numerous projects around the world. In addition to providing practical bioremediation experience and applications, our biocatalysis process remains on the leading edge of bioremediation technology. The scope of Fiton’s integrated bioservices includes: Developing Conceptual Model Based on information made available to Fiton by the client, a conceptual model of the fate and transport of environmental contaminants at a site is developed. All available information regarding site hydrogeology, contaminant distribution, and the process controlling the attenuation and migration of the contaminants of concern is used to build the conceptual model. If data gaps are identified, Fiton may recommend supplemental work to fill these gaps and refine the conceptual model. Process and Biotreatability Testing Fiton Technologies supports complex bioremediation projects with focused biotreatability studies and other independent laboratory services. These investigations provide custom-designed solutions to meet the individual waste treatment needs of each client, including the following services: • • • • • • • Enumerate and evaluate the natural microbial community within the contaminated media; Confirm containment biodegradability in site samples; Prove attainment of treatment of target levels; Identify design parameters for bioremediation treatment systems; Determine site suitability for bioremediation; Ensure successful application of bioremediation; and Identify key monitoring parameters to accurately assess progress toward site remediation. Monitoring parameters may include nitrogen, ammonia, phosphorus, nitrate, sulfate, pH, moisture, porosity and hydraulic conductivibes. Bioremediation System Design Based on the biotreatability study, along with the conceptual model of the site, Fiton Technologies designs bioremediation systems which provide clients with timely solutions to contamination problems. Our designs are environmentally sound, costeffective, community-friendly and acceptable to regulatory agencies. Ideally, the design is based on a detailed understanding of the biochemical characteristics and contaminant distribution at the site. When resources are constrained and data gaps remain, our engineering/scientific judgment supported by our years of experience augments factual data in developing our designs. Once the design is implemented in 4 Fiton Technologies Corp. Fiton's Integrated Bioservices the field, occasional modifications are straightforward and are considered in the budgetary process. This flexible method of design not only results in more rapid initiation of site cleanup, but is also generally more cost-effective because: • • • The expense of a pilot study phase can usually be avoided; Exorbitant costs associated with continued investigation of site hydrogeology and biochemistry can be avoided; and An overly conservative and, therefore, expensive design might not be necessary. Remedial Construction and Operation The core of Fiton Technologies is our remedial construction and operation services. Fiton routinely provides complete installation, start-up and operation of full-scale remedial systems designed to address diverse environmental contamination problems. We have experience in custom designing all types of bioremediation systems, such as In Situ Bioremediation of Soil, In Situ Bioremediation of Groundwater, and Ex Situ Bioremediation of Soil. The effectiveness of any of these conventional or custom-designed systems is vastly enhanced by proprietary use of Fiton in our biocatalysis process. Some system components are purchased and integrated into the operational system at a specific site. We also fabricate equipment when components for special applications are not commonly available. Once equipment is installed and operational, we provide project management and the personnel to perform routine inspections, scheduled maintenance, and evaluation of equipment performance. These services may also include sampling and analysis of targeted contaminants to evaluate the success of the remedial process, and reporting to appropriate regulatory agencies. In some instances, we may train client personnel to operate and maintain the remedial system through formal instruction programs. Fiton Technologies has completed numerous projects around the world using both in situ and ex situ methods. We have the equipment, experience and personnel to efficiently treat a wide variety of contaminants in virtually any environment. Our Mobile Processing Plants are designed to treat up to 300 tons of material per hour. For deep-soil contamination or situations in which it is impractical to excavate, such as fractured bedrock, Fiton Technologies’ in situ capabilities are used. Often, a combination of both techniques is required. Whether it is in situ or ex situ, our unique technology completes the job in days or weeks, rather than in months or years. Bioremediation Monitoring Program Based on the conceptual model we have developed, our extensive bioremediation engineering experience, the selected bioremediation design and the project goals, Fiton Technologies can develop monitoring programs to evaluate the effectiveness of the process in degrading the targeted contaminants. Fiton Technologies has 5 Fiton Technologies Corp. Fiton's Integrated Bioservices experience in developing a wide range of monitoring programs for all types of soil and groundwater bioremediation systems and for a variety of contaminants. Support Services In addition, Fiton Technologies provides services to support our field bioremediation activities. Fiton Technologies has been successful in reducing our clients’ environmental assessment and remediation costs by providing support services using our in-house staff of experienced personnel. These services are described below: Regulatory Interaction Regulatory interaction, negotiation and permitting assistance may be the most critical aspect of your remediation project. The remediation strategy developed with the regulator could make a difference of millions of dollars in cleanup costs. Recent U.S. trends in state and federal regulations offer opportunities for risk-based cleanup criteria, as well as flexibility in acceptance of site-remediation strategy. Fiton Technologies has provided this support to clients and has been successful in assisting clients in reducing their environmental remediation costs. Site Assessment When data gaps exist and the client so requests, Fiton can perform site assessment through a qualified subcontractor. Fiton’s experience in managing turnkey projects includes a broad range of techniques, enabling us to effectively apply and integrate more focused and cost-effective data collection. Investigative techniques include literature review to evaluate contaminant biodegradability potential under different environmental conditions, monitor well design and installation, aquifer testing, and groundwater sampling for chemical analysis. These techniques are used in combination to provide the necessary and defensible data for remedial design. 6 BIOCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF INDUSTRIAL WASTE Fiton Technologies has successfully completed projects worldwide, having been selected because of the unique capabilities of our process. Fiton Technologies offers speed, favorable economics and effectiveness over a wide range of waste types, compared to other treatment methods. Treatment through Biocatalysis Many manufacturing activities, in spite of efforts to minimize, generate large volumes of waste streams as part of the manufacturing process. Biological treatment of these wastes has historically been dismissed as ineffective or impractical, due to space and time constraints or an inability to handle varying waste stream characteristics. Fiton Technologies has successfully treated a variety of wastes from an array of industries, such as electric utilities, petroleum, food and steel manufacturers. Through our biocatalysis process, Fiton Technologies is capable of totally eliminating the organic components of many waste streams. Through a secondary treatment program, heavy metals are extracted from the wastewater. Fiton Technologies’ process of conditioning microbes enables them to thrive in a dissolved heavy metal environment, and causes the dissolved heavy metals to precipitate out of the wastewater. The extracted metals can then be either recycled or disposed of by traditional methods. Treated liquids may be recycled or discharged as contaminated water. Fiton Technologies can customize a biocatalysis system for many problem waste streams. Due to the speed and robust nature of our process, capital and space requirements are often minimal and project ROI is thus very favorable. The Process Based on sample treatability study results, Fiton Technologies mass-produces specific beneficial microbes that are naturally present in the waste stream. These microbes are conditioned to efficiently metabolize within the environmental conditions of the waste stream (temperature, pH, dissolved heavy metals, etc.). A treatment system is custom-designed for the client’s specific needs, using reliable conventional components. The waste stream liquids are typically treated in a Fiton Technologiessupplied bioreactor, or a series of bioreactor units which are totally self-contained. The waste, along with the selected and conditioned microbes, standard nutrients, and Fiton Technologies’ proprietary nutrient Fiton are mixed in bioreactors. Normally in fewer than 24 hours, the final result is water meeting all targeted environmental treatment or discharge standards for reuse or release as a non-contaminated material. 7 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Treatment of Industrial Waste Example: Steel Mill Sludge The management of mill sludge is an important challenge constantly faced by the steel industry. Primarily comprised of various iron oxide particles, oil and grease, the steel industry has investigated economical alternatives to landfilling this high-volume waste for years. Fiton Technologies has developed, tested and implemented at commercial scale, a customized biocatalysis process which successfully reduces hydrocarbon levels from 15-80 per cent down to as low as 15 ppm. The biocatalysis process uses naturally occurring bacteria, whose growth rate and enzyme secretion capacity are significantly accelerated by our proprietary biostimulant, Fiton. Biocatalysis achieves in hours what nature takes years to accomplish. Once target levels are achieved, processed waters meet regulatory standards for discharge and the clean mill sludge can be reintroduced into the steel-making process. This recovery approach turns waste into a usable saleable commodity, improves the overall profitability of the steel maker, and eliminates the environmental liability associated with long-term storage or landfill of this material. The Cost Because our process is so fast, and is effective on such a wide variety of waste types, the cost is normally significantly less than conventional waste management practices. Contact us for more information. 8 BIOREMEDIATION OF INORGANIC CONTAMINANTS Sites contaminated with both organic and inorganic compounds present complex remediation challenges. Unlike organic contaminants, which can successfully be broken down into harmless metabolites including carbon dioxide and water by a wellconceived and implemented bioremediation technology, such as our biocatalysis process, metals are elemental. Additionally, metals and their salts often have an inhibitory effect on conventional bioremediation techniques. For these reasons, conventional bioremediation is typically not considered an alternative for remediation of metals and inorganic compound contamination. However, due to conditioning with the Fiton biostimulant, the newly robust bacteria employed through the biocatalysis process can successfully survive and flourish in highly toxic environments. Fiton’s treatment of inorganic contaminants is achieved by combining the use of the biocatalysis process with a range of physico-chemical techniques to transform and/or extract the inorganic matter from the waste stream. A secondary treatment phase can be designed behind the biocatalysis phase of a project whereby certain inorganics, such as sulfides and cyanides can be broken down, and certain heavy metals can be bioadsorbed into the conditioned microbes and removed through proven conventional separation or filtration techniques. Some of the inorganic contaminants treated by Fiton Technologies include: Chromium Manganese Nickel Iron Zinc Aluminum Ammonia Sulphides Lead Copper Cyanides For an example of a specific application of our bioremediation of inorganics, see Biotreatment of Acid Mine Waters. 9 LANDFILL LEACHATE TREATMENT Over the years, sound management of the growing volume of municipal solid waste (MSW) has become increasingly complex and costly. Conventional municipal landfill design, construction, operation and site closings forbid direct disposal of free liquids and collects leachate generated from precipitation or degradation of landfill wastes. The collected leachate is routinely removed from the landfill for off-site treatment/discharge. Some of the disadvantages associated with this anaerobic (“dry tomb”) technology include the production of methane, leaching of metals, formation of toxic compounds, slow stabilization and odor. Based on recent published research, Fiton Technologies is ideally suited to offer a new landfill leachate management approach. Fiton Technologies is the partner of choice to assist in landfill cleanup due to our experience, unique technology, pricing and proven results. Innovative Bioremediation Natural micro-organisms (microbes) are found in every corner of the world. In the proper environment, these single-celled bacteria will ingest organic material and reduce it to inorganics such as carbon dioxide and water. The process is safe, efficient and cost-effective. Bioremediation techniques have been available for a number of years, however Fiton Technologies’ biocatalysis technology suggests that many conventional waste management dogmas must be re-examined. The speed and robust nature of the biocatalysis process makes it the quickest and most effective means of reducing landfill maintenance costs. Operators may be able to reduce their post-closure monitoring time from ~30 years to two–five years, due to the rapid stabilization of the waste mass and reduction in the strength of key leachate contaminants. The Process Using a custom-designed leachate recirculation program, Fiton Technologies first mass-produces microbes indigenous to the region in which the landfill is located. These microbes are conditioned with nutrients and the biostimulant Fiton to efficiently metabolize in the expected conditions on site (temperature, pH, dissolved heavy metals, etc.). The collected landfill leachate is inoculated with the conditioned bacteria/nutrient mix, and the biologically enhanced leachate is returned to the top of the waste mass and recirculated through a combination of infiltration galleries, surface sprayers and recovery wells. With these methods, the leachate will percolate down into the waste, providing the optimal moisture/nutrient conditions, thereby promoting maximum microbial growth and activity and the development of a natural aerobic bioreactor landfill. Typically in 30 to 90 days, dramatic and permanent results are evident. Converting your facility 10 Fiton Technologies Corp. Landfill Leachate Treatment to a biologically active landfill using Fiton Technologies will reduce post-closure costs, compared to conventional dry landfill closure. The benefits will include increased available disposal air space due to accelerated biodegradation of wastes, reduced leachate disposal costs and elimination of methane gas management costs. Contact us to find out more about how Fiton Technologies can provide an environmentally friendly solution to your landfill leachate problem. 11 OIL SPILL CLEANUP/OIL TANKER SLUDGE REMOVAL Speed, effectiveness, respect for the environment and growing international recognition of Fiton Technologies’ programs make us the preferred choice for oil spill and tanker cleanup. Bioremediation Natural micro-organisms (microbes) are found in every corner of the world. In the proper environment, these single-celled bacteria will ingest organics such as oil products, and reduce the material to inorganics such as carbon dioxide and water. The process is safe, efficient, cost-effective and approved. Now that Fiton Technologies has perfected our technology, bioremediation is the quickest and most effective means of addressing oil spill contamination. The Technology Fiton Technologies mass-produces microbes that are non-toxic and safe to handle. These microbes are conditioned to efficiently metabolize the oil, given the challenging conditions presented by petroleum bioremediation in a marine environment (temperature, pH, salinity, wave action, etc.). The Fiton Technologies-supplied standard nutrients, conditioned microbes, and Fiton Technologies’ proprietary nutrient Fiton are mixed with fresh or sea water and applied with the same methods used for dispersants. Upon contact with the oil, the microbes begin to metabolize it as a source of energy and this results in the creation of innocuous byproducts such as carbon dioxide and water. Fiton is the key to Fiton Technologies’ success and is responsible for treatment significantly faster than would otherwise be possible. A major component of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) testing was to prove that the Fiton bioremediation product, NER-Micro-FITON, is nonpathogenic, non-toxic and efficacious under field conditions. Petroleum Spill Cleanup From supertanker oil spills to the leaking UST at the corner gas station, contamination from petroleum hydrocarbons is a concern that affects nearly every hamlet and major metropolis throughout the world. Unfortunately, oil spills occur with alarming frequency. The world’s rivers, estuaries and oceans are routinely threatened by petroleum leaks and spills. Until now, chemical dispersants, which accomplish little more than dilution, have been the only recognized option. Finally, an effective and non-toxic alternative to dispersants is being marketed globally to naturally and effectively assist with the cleanup. Fiton Technologies is introducing a revolutionary new technology unavailable from anyone else. Fiton Technologies began the process of worldwide acceptance in the United Kingdom, where Fiton Technologies' wholly owned subsidiary, Natural Environment Recovery Corporation (NER), is the only company with approval from 12 Fiton Technologies Corp. Oil Spill Cleanup/Oil Tanker Sludge Removal the MAFF, the UK’s approving agency for treating petroleum spills in marine environments controlled by the UK. Unlike dispersants, Fiton Technologies’ process is safe, non-toxic, and actually eliminates the oil in a very short period of time. Used in conjunction with traditional mechanical removal and containment devices, Fiton Technologies provides the most effective and natural cleanup process available. Shoreline Cleanup Certainly the impact of any oil spill is most visible once it reaches a shoreline. Fiton Technologies’ process is equally effective in eliminating the oil and quickly reestablishing a stable ecosystem. Shoreline cleanup can be accomplished in situ, without requiring excavation of soils/sands and without the destruction of the indigenous biota of the delicate shoreline ecosystems. Oil Tanker Sludge Removal The same technology can save ship-owners time and money in tank cleaning and related sludge disposal. Tank cleaning can be performed in-transit at sea, providing significant savings with the elimination of slops disposal, berth costs, pilotage, tugs and, most important, time. The Cost The Fiton process will save half the cost of dispersants and will result in rapid and complete recovery of the delicate marine environment. Contact us today for more information and find out why Fiton Technologies has the only MAFF-approved oil spill bioremediation product. 1,000,000 100,000 10,000 1,000 100 10 1 Time 0 1,000,000 1,120 111 28 1 24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 90 hours Sample bioremediation times for oil and oil products using Fiton Technologies' wholly owned subsidiary, Natural Environment Recovery Corporation. 13 BIOREMEDIATION OF PCBs Bioremediation Natural micro-organisms (microbes) are found in every corner of the world. In the proper environment, these single-celled bacteria will ingest organics, including PCBs, and reduce the material to simple byproducts such as carbon dioxide and water. The process is recognized by both the public and government agencies as being safe, efficient and cost-effective. Bioremediation techniques have been available for a number of years, but have had limited success against PCBs. However, with Fiton Technologies' breakthrough process, bioremediation is the quickest and most effective means of addressing PCB contamination. The Technology Fiton Technologies mass-produces microbes indigenous to the region in which contaminated material is located. These microbes are optimally conditioned to efficiently metabolize the PCBs under the expected conditions on site (temperature, pH, dissolved heavy metals, etc.). PCB liquids and sludges are treated in a totally self-contained bioreactor unit supplied by Fiton Technologies. The PCB liquid or slurry, micro-nutrients, and Fiton Technologies’ proprietary biostimulant, Fiton, are mixed in the bioreactors. Typically in fewer than 24 hours, the final result is water, containing less than 1 ppm PCB. For transformers, a microbial solution is created as a flush for the unit. PCB-contaminated materials are submerged in a microbial solution. In all cases, the resulting liquids, transformers and material can be disposed of contaminant-free, with no special permits required. The key to success in Fiton Technologies’ method is the proprietary nutrient Fiton. PCB Contamination The problem presents formidable technical, regulatory and financial challenges. PCBs are a complex mixture of 209 possible isomers. Six hundred thirty-two million tons of these compounds were produced from 1929 to 1970, when concerns over its human and animal toxicity, and carcinogenic and reproductive health effects caused countries to ban its manufacture and use. Transformer oils containing high concentrations of PCBs were used ubiquitously and the lack of proper oil storage and disposal, along with transformer explosions, caused a serious PCB contamination problem worldwide. Remediation goals and methods differ from country to country. With highly contaminated sites, incineration is the most common approach. However, this solution is often cost-prohibitive and poses unacceptable risks to the community. Therefore, an alternative treatment technology that can meet stringent cleanup standards safely and economically is needed. Fiton Technologies has successfully treated PCBs for a number of companies through our biocatalysis technology. Because remediation 14 Fiton Technologies Corp. Bioremediation of PCBs takes place at the contaminated site, the cost, logistics and approval processes are greatly simplified. The following table shows the remarkable results from actual projects. treatment time unit of measure is hours, not days, weeks or months! PCB concentration mg/l Initial ppm PCB concentration m/l Final ppm Note that Treatment time in hours 8,142 3,585 6,660 4,291 782 <1 <1 1.2 <1 <1 26 12 6 3.7 3 15 BIOCATALYTIC TREATMENT OF ACID MINE WATERS/TAILINGS The biological reduction of sulphate to sulphide by sulphate-reducing bacteria and the subsequent oxidation of the sulphide and other mineral sulphides by the sulphur bacteria to sulphuric acid has been a long-standing problem in coal and iron mining operations. Many methods have been employed to control this, including the use of sulphate-reducing bacteria to remove sulphuric acid, ion exchange, neutralization by various buffers including carbonates and lime, and attempts to inhibit the activities of sulphate-reducing or sulphur-oxidizing micro-organisms by controlling oxygen concentration or by use of chemical inhibitors. The proprietary Fiton bioremediation process (biocatalysis) is designed to enhance the biological process that nature has developed to reduce acid waters in the geological past which were related to geological and volcanic or vent phenomena. The role of the sulphur cycle in nature has been studied since 1875. Sulphate reduction and sulphur oxidation reactions, both chemically and by microbial species, are properly described in the literature. The natural production of sulphuric acid in sulphuretta has a mineral recycling role in geochemistry. The acid waters resulting from anaerobic sediments, bogs and natural acid seeps is nature’s way of solubilizing chemicals from rocks so that they may be available for photosynthesis. Nature requires a complex array of metals for various enzyme, metabolic hormone and general life processes. The waters of the ocean have all the known natural elements, and modern-day evolution clearly points to the ocean as the medium for primitive life development. The complex mixture of elements is thus represented in all forms of life on our planet. This concept is built into the proprietary Fiton Acid Mine Drainage Bioremediation Process. The mineral content of acid mine waters must be used in a manner that is compatible with the environment as a source of micronutrients. In brief, nature takes care of acid waters with the aid of evolved unicellular plants and animals, which not only tolerate acids but also use the acids as an energy source. The associated minerals are used in photosynthesis and chemosynthesis as a mechanism to maintain a balanced ecosystem. Methodology of the Fiton Biotreatment System The Fiton bioremediation system is an alternative to the conventional approach using lime and limestone. It enhances biomass in wetlands. When fully operational, the system is virtually maintenance free. Once the microbial system is firmly entrenched, habitats are created which result in a combination or a succession of wetland ecosystems that continually clean acid mine drain water as it forms and flows over the enhanced wetland system. 16 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Treatment of Acid Mine Waters/Tailings All of the micro-organisms used are native to the site. Pathogenic organisms are screened out. In order to ensure that eutrophication of the wetlands does not occur, nutrient media is used which enhances the cultivation of algae from only the chlorophyta and chrysophyta groups. The algae group indicated in eutrophication is cyanochloranta, a blue-green algae. Flow out of the wetlands must be controlled to allow the micro-organisms adequate time to react, precipitate the metals (mostly as sulphides) and increase the pH of the water. Unlike conventional methods in which large volumes of sludges (which are difficult to dewater) are formed by alkaline treatment, there is virtually no sludge formed by this process. The minimal sludge which is generated is taken up by the plants as part of their normal metabolic process. The approach taken on site is to apply the Fiton proprietary nutrients, including a growth stimulant, Fiton and the customized mixed culture of indigenous microorganisms to the affected areas, or ponds. These ponds then serve as “reactors” in which the micro-organisms are cultivated and managed, rather like a farmer’s field. Once the ecosystems in the ponds are fully transformed, the system becomes selfsustaining. An example of the effectiveness of the Fiton process is shown by the following results obtained from a pilot project performed for a major spill – the 1998 Acid Mine Drainage/Tailings Spill from the Boliden Mine in Spain. The pilot project used a series of tanks to act as natural/engineered ponds. The tailings slurry flowed by gravity progressively from a reservoir into tanks 1 through 5. The concentration of metals in the effluent out of tank 5 showed a 45 – almost 100 per cent removal of individual metals in the influent from the reservoir in a two (2)hour residence time. The longer the residence time, the better the efficacy. The metals extracted were: Arsenic (As) Copper (Cv) Manganese (Mn) Cadmium (Cd) Iron (Fe) Nickel (Ni) Chromium (Cr) Lead (Pb) Zinc (Zn) 17 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Treatment of Acid Mine Waters/Tailings 1.0 – Zinc (Zn) Treatment with Fiton 120.000 100.000 80.000 60.000 40.000 20.000 0.000 — 1 -20.000 Sample # Tank # Conc. (ppm) 10A 1 112.000 Influent 9A 2 74.000 8A 3 15.800 7A 4 0.870 6A 5 0.440 Effluent % Reduction 99.6 2 3 Tank # 4 5 2.0 – Lead (Pb) Treatment with Fiton Conc. (ppm) Sample # Tank # Conc. (ppm) 10A 1 2300 Influent 9A 2 10 8A 3 10 7A 4 10 6A 5 10 Effluent % Reduction 99.565 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 3.0 – Nickel (Ni) Treatment with Fiton Sample # Tank # 10A 1 9A 2 8A 3 7A 4 6A 5 Conc. (ppm) 230 Influent 230 203 120 80 Effluent 250 Conc. (ppm) 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 % Reduction 65.22 18 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Treatment of Acid Mine Waters/Tailings 4.0 – Arsenic (As) Treatment with Fiton Conc. (ppm) Sample # Tank # 10A 1 9A 2 8A 3 7A 4 6A 5 Conc. (ppm) 72.3 Influent 27.2 11.2 19.2 13.2 Effluent 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 % Reduction 81.74 5.0 – Iron (Fe) Treatment with Fiton Conc. (ppm) Sample # Tank # 10A 1 9A 2 8A 3 7A 4 6A 5 Conc. (ppm) 120.0 Influent 23.0 13.0 15.0 36.0 Effluent 120 100 80 40 20 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 % Reduction 70 6.0 – Manganese (Mn) Treatment with Fiton Conc. (ppm) Sample # Tank # 10A 1 9A 2 8A 3 7A 4 6A 5 Conc. (ppm) 97.40 Influent 77.20 59.90 47.60 53.30 Effluent 100 80 60 40 20 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 % Reduction 45.28 19 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Treatment of Acid Mine Waters/Tailings 7.0 – Cadmium (Cd) Treatment with Fiton 250 Sample # Tank # Conc. (ppm) 10A 1 241.0 Influent 9A 2 27.0 8A 3 8.7 7A 4 4.2 6A 5 3.7 Effluent % Reduction 98.46 Conc. (ppm) 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 8.0 – Chromium (Cr) Treatment with Fiton Conc. (ppm) Sample # Tank # Conc. (ppm) 10A 1 142.0 Influent 9A 2 17.5 8A 3 27.8 7A 4 29.2 6A 5 20.7 Effluent % Reduction 85.42 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 9.0 – Copper (Cu) Treatment with Fiton Sample # Tank # 10A 1 9A 2 8A 3 7A 4 6A 5 Conc. (ppm) 60.0 Influent 23.0 16.0 4.0 2.0 Effluent 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 1 2 3 4 Tank # 5 % Reduction 96.667 20 Conc. (ppm) BIOCATALYTIC REMEDIATION OF SOIL & GROUNDWATER Bioremediation Bioremediation is the cornerstone in Fiton’s repertoire of remediation technologies. Bioremediation has been an accepted treatment process that uses naturally occurring micro-organisms (usually bacteria) to break down, or degrade, hazardous substances into less toxic or nontoxic substances. Micro-organisms, like humans, eat and digest organic substances for nutrients and energy. Certain bacteria can digest organic substances, such as fuels or solvents, that are hazardous to humans. They break down these organic contaminants into harmless products (primarily carbon dioxide and water). Once the contaminants are degraded, the bacteria population declines sharply because it has consumed its entire food source. The end products pose no contamination risk. Bioremediation has been proven effective for treating soil and groundwater contamination at numerous sites throughout the world, and is accepted as a viable remediation strategy by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Environment Canada and other regulatory agencies worldwide. Bioremediation Primer In order to appreciate our advanced process, a discussion of the types of bioremediation strategies is in order. Bioremediation can be used as a cleanup method for either contaminated soil or water. Bioremediation applications fall into two broad categories: in situ or ex situ. In situ treats the contaminated soil or groundwater at the location in which it is found. Ex situ bioremediation processes require either excavation of contaminated soil or pumping of groundwater before they can begin. In Situ Soil Bioremediation does not require excavation so may be less expensive, create less dust, and cause less release of contaminants than ex situ techniques. It is also possible to treat large volumes of soil at once. A system of injection wells, trenches or a sprinkler system is typically used to deliver the selected added ingredients to the impacted soil. In Situ Groundwater Bioremediation speeds the natural biodegradation processes that take place below the water line. The system generally consists of an extraction well, an above-ground water treatment system in which the selected amendments are added, and injection wells/trenches to return the “conditioned” groundwater to the subsurface where the bacteria metabolize the contaminants. 21 Fiton Technologies Corp. Biocatalytic Remediation of Soil & Groundwater Ex Situ Soil Bioremediation – The ex situ techniques can be faster and easier to control than in situ techniques. In slurry operations, contaminated soil is mixed with water and selected additives in a large tank called a “bioreactor,” maximizing mass transfer rates and increasing the contact between the bacteria and the contaminants. Oxygen, nutrients and specific bacteria can be added under controlled conditions to create the optimal environment for the bacteria to degrade the contaminants. If solidphase bioremediation is selected, various above-ground treatment areas are used. Again, moisture, nutrients and oxygen are controlled to enhance the biological activity. These systems are relatively simple to operate and maintain, but often require a large amount of space, as well as a lengthy time line. 22 THE BIOREMEDIATION LEGACY Bioremediation offers many advantages as a treatment, such as: • • • • It can provide complete destruction of contaminants, thus eliminating owner liability; It is often the most cost-effective alternative; Perceived as an environmentally friendly technology, it can be more rapidly implemented; and It carries lower capital costs. On the other hand, traditional bioremediation has significant disadvantages as well: • • • It has gained a reputation as being unreliable; It has frequently failed to reach targeted contaminant cleanup standards; and It is not effective where the contaminants are acutely toxic to the beneficial bacteria. As a result of this less-than-stellar performance of traditional bioremediation, there is strong need for a truly breakthrough advance in biological treatment alternatives. Fiton’s Unique Process Redefines Bioremediation Our biostimulant, Fiton, is a proprietary blend of natural ingredients formulated and first used in horticulture by the great-grandparents and grandparents of Dr. Godknows Itamunoala, the corporation’s president and CEO, over a period of about 100 years. Dr. Itamunoala performed extensive research while in university to determine Fiton’s biochemical basis and adapted it for use in pollution prevention in what is now referred to as the Fiton Biocatalysis Process. Broad Applicability Fiton would be suitable for any project involving organic contaminants, as well as some involving organic and inorganic contamination. This would include all sites at which conventional bioremediation techniques may be effective. Also included would be many circumstances in which conventional bioremediation would not be considered due to Fiton’s vastly improved technology. Fiton is effective where oxygen is scarce or where other toxic ambient conditions exist which are detrimental to survival of beneficial bacteria. Along with its effectiveness in harsh environments, Fiton’s speed, which has been described as “cold-burning,” allows it to be the most desirable treatment alternative for the broadest range of organic contaminants, including the most difficult-to-treat and toxic compounds such as PCBs, dioxins and furans. 23 Fiton Technologies Corp. The Bioremediation Legacy Selection of Microbes to Cultivate Certain species of bacteria are known empirically to have the capability to metabolize (break down) specifically targeted chemical bonds. When we select samples on which to perform our treatability testing, we analyze the population of indigenous bacteria present. We then isolate a mixed strain of bacteria from the sample and extract only the ones we wish to encourage, based on their ability to break the desired chemical bonds. Selected species are acclimated to the field conditions, ensuring their survival, and we add Fiton biostimulant which induces them to produce the beneficial enzymes that will rapidly break down the targeted organic contaminants. The Fiton process utilizes a mixture of natural non-genetically engineered microbes working in concert to degrade a given contaminant to simple inorganics, such as carbon dioxide and water. What is Fiton? Fiton, the universal solution behind the biocatalysis process, is a protected trade secret. The raw materials for Fiton are sourced mainly from farmers and numerous companies around the world from which the mostly natural components are commonly purchased. The raw materials are transported to the manufacturing plant located in Canada, where they are used to formulate various solutions which are, in turn, combined to manufacture the Fiton product in a dry powder form. We increase or decrease the concentration in the mixture, depending on field conditions, cleanup levels required and project timetables. Many factors affect the development of the custom-designed Fiton mixture for a given project. Factors include location, time of year, type of contamination, level and speed of cleanup required, depth of contamination, soil characteristics, hydrogeology, surface water, precipitation, etc. How is Fiton Different? Fiton’s biocatalysis process is different from other bioremediation in two fundamental ways. First, we are able to treat a much broader range of contaminants including the most stable, complex organic compounds. Conventional bioremediation typically targets light-end petroleum compounds, such as gasoline or aviation fuel, and other simple compounds that can be more easily metabolized. Second, the Fiton mixture catalyzes the bacteria to work very rapidly. We can complete in days or weeks projects that would normally take months or years. The combination of these two factors allows us to compete very effectively against other treatment technologies for a greatly expanded range of projects, as well as against conventional bioremediation. The Cost Our process is typically less expensive, more effective and less intrusive than any other cleanup methods. We have the experience and results to back us up. Contact us today for more information. 24 APPENDIX A FITON PROCESS ADVANTAGES NATURAL • Fiton uses Natural Microbes that are not genetically modified OTHERS (Competitors) • Certain competitors employ genetically modified microbial agents that can have an adverse impact on the regenerated environment • Once the process is completed, the environment returns to NATURE Sole by-products of the FITON process are • H2O and CO2 ELIMINATES CONTAMINANTS • Dispersants Dispersants are chemicals used in combating oil spills; they do little more than break up oil into tiny droplets that sink into the water column and increase the exposure of marine animals to toxicity that ultimately moves into the food chain Vitrification simply fixes contaminants in place; depending on changes in physicochemical conditions over time (e.g. pH; temp), the buried or immobilized contaminants may leach out, and sometimes threaten water supplies Landfilling simply moves contamination from one location to another Incineration, incomplete combustion and low temperature incineration, if not tightly controlled, can yield even more toxic contaminants such as dioxins and furans from such compounds as PCBs Conventional bioremediation processes can take years to achieve results that can be achieved by FITON in months or weeks Conventional bioremediation processes under certain low-oxygen conditions will yield flammable gases such as methane (CH4), and odourous gases such as sulphide (H2S) Vitrification • Landfilling • Incineration • FAST & ECONOMICAL • The use of the biocatalyst (biostimulant) FITON makes the clean-up process FAST and therefore ECONOMICAL • NO BY-PRODUCTS • The use of the biostimulant means that no noxious/unpleasant gases are created and given off • 25 FITON TECHNOLOGIES CORP. 469 Queen Street, East Toronto, Ontario Canada M5A 1T9 Phone: Facsimile: e-mail: Web site: 905-265-8256 905-256-8646 fiton@sympatico.ca www.fiton.com