Biodegradation of styrene in waterlogged soils and aquifer solids

The biodegradation of styrene in waterlogged soils and aquifer solids was initially rapid, but the rate then declined. Significant amounts of styrene persisted under waterlogged conditions. Trace amounts of phenylethanol, phenylacetic acid, phenylacetaldehyde, and benzoic acid appeared in soils but not in aquifer solids, Styrene oxide was not detected. Addition of nitrate did not stimulate styrene degradation in aquifer solids and Lima loam. Because many waste sites are anoxic, the persistence of styrene under waterlogged conditions may be of environmental importance.