Development of Bioformulation for Hazardous Explosive Waste Management

TERI, in collaboration with CFEES (DRDO), has successfully undertaken a development contract focused on the design and deployment of bioformulations for the remediation of hazardous explosive waste. The project addresses the pressing challenge of contamination from energetics such as RDX, HMX and TNT which pose significant environmental and health risks.

The initiative centres on the development of carrier-based microbial bioformulations, designed to enhance microbial survival and efficiency under harsh environmental conditions. Two formulations, Water Dispersible Granules (WDG) and Wettable Powder (WP), were developed using optimised fermentation processes and immobilisation techniques. These formulations enable effective delivery of potent explosive-degrading microorganisms at scale.

Pilot-scale and field-scale validations were conducted at CFEES. Field implementation at the 33 Field Ammunition Depot (Punjab) included the application of ~400 kg of optimised bioformulation under controlled conditions.

Results demonstrated significant improvements in soil quality parameters, including increased moisture availability and favourable pH conditions that supported microbial activity. Enzymatic activity and nitrite formation trends indicated effective biodegradation of RDX.

Overall, the developed bioformulations not only facilitated the degradation of explosive contaminants but also contributed to improved soil health. This work reinforces TERI’s commitment to developing sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective bioremediation solutions for defence and environmental applications.