Soluble quick-release electron donor
Newman Zone QR75
Low Cost & High Hydrogen Production
Newman Zone QR75 is a soluble electron donor with nutrients and vitamins designed to rapidly establish anaerobic conditions for in situ bioremediation. With over 75% fermentable material, it produces up to 2X the molecular hydrogen as sodium lactate.
Rapid fermentation provides hydrogen to reduce competing electron acceptors such as dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and sulfate, supporting anaerobic biodegradation of chlorinated solvents, nitrated explosives, perchlorate, nitrate, and selected metals.
Why Newman Zone QR75
Newman Zone QR75 is designed to provide a balance of rapid response and cost efficiency. As a soluble electron donor, it distributes quickly in groundwater and begins fermenting within days, making it effective for quickly establishing anaerobic conditions.
Compared to higher concentration soluble donors, QR75 provides a more economical option while still delivering strong hydrogen production and rapid microbial growth.
For projects requiring long-term treatment from a single injection event, Newman Zone QR75 can be combined with slow-release donors such as Newman Zone 55 or Newman Zone HRO.
Cost-Effective Hydrogen Production
Produces up to 2X the hydrogen of sodium lactate, improving efficiency per pound injected.
Rapid Microbial Growth
Provides electron donors, nitrogen, phosphorus, and Vitamin B12 to support fast microbial activity.
No Sodium Salts
- Ideal for salt-sensitive aquifers where sodium lactate is not an option.
Performs in Cold Conditions
Low viscosity and easy handling in cold conditions; will not freeze above
Technical Details
How it Works
1. Distributes Rapidly in Groundwater
As a soluble donor, QR90 disperses quickly throughout the treatment zone following injection.
2. Ferments to Produce Hydrogen
Rapid fermentation generates hydrogen and volatile fatty acids, reducing competing electron acceptors such as DO, nitrate, and sulfate.
3. Stimulates Anaerobic Biodegradation
The resulting conditions support reductive dechlorination and other anaerobic biodegradation processes.
Application & Handling
- Diluted with water prior to injection
- Can be applied using direct push, injection wells, infiltration trenches, or recirculation systems
- Ethanol concentrations are typically kept below 5% in situ to minimize microbial toxicity
- Can be injected directly into wells to help reduce biofouling on screens
Performance Characteristics
- Rapid fermentation produces hydrogen and VFAs quickly
- Sustains higher VFA concentrations compared to sodium lactate in microcosm testing
- Effective for quickly reducing electron acceptors and initiating treatment
Packaging & Storage
Available in:
- Drums (450 lb net)
- Totes (2,200 lb net)
Storage:
- Stable for months at ambient temperatures
- Remains pumpable in sub-zero conditions
- Will not freeze above -75°C
Safety
- Flammable liquid at room temperature
- May cause irritation with prolonged contact
- Use appropriate PPE during handling
- Contains denatured ethanol (SDA-3C)
QR75 / QR90 Comparison
| Feature | QR75 | QR90 |
|---|---|---|
| Fermentable Material | ~75% | ~90% |
| Hydrogen Production | ~2X sodium lactate | ~3X sodium lactate |
| Performance Profile | Cost-efficient hydrogen delivery for general applications | Higher hydrogen delivery for faster reduction of electron acceptors |
| Response Speed | Rapid (days) | Very rapid (near-immediate fermentation) |
| Temperature | Pumpable to -30°C | Pumpable to -75°C |
Need to quickly establish anaerobic conditions?
Get guidance on dosing, injection strategy, and combining QR90 with long-term electron donors.