Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA)

The volatile fatty acids (VFA) pyruvate, lactate, formate, acetate, propionate, and butyrate are analyzed as biomarkers of anaerobic metabolism. Anaerobic bacteria produce these compounds by fermentation. Under anaerobic conditions these VFAs accumulate, while under aerobic conditions these compounds are rapidly oxidized for carbon and energy by aerobic bacteria. The VFA are analyzed using ion chromatography.

Metabolic Gases (MEE)

The gases analyzed include methane, ethane, and ethene. Methane is the definitive marker for methanogenesis, and ethane and ethene are terminal products of the reductive dechlorination of tetrachloroethene.

Sampling Procedure

Sampling for VFA and MEE analysis requires two 40 mL VOA vials per samples. Each VOA should be filled to the top, leaving no headspace in the vial. These samples should be shipped on ice for overnight delivery to Microbial Insights. For further shipping and sampling information please see the Sampling Protocol page.