In situ rates of sulfate reduction in an aquifer (Rømo, Denmark) and implications for the reactivity of organic matter

This paper presents the first direct radiotracer measurements of in situ rates of sulfate reduction for an aquifer (Rømo, Denmark). Sulfate reduction occurs in distinct reaction zones within the aquifer at rates that vary greatly over short lateral distances. In situ rates of sulfate reduction are significantly higher than previous indirect estimates. In contrast, rates of sulfate reduction in aquifers are orders of magnitude lower than in marine and limnic environments, emphasizing the low reactivity of natural organic matter in aquifers. -from Authors