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 60% 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
Less expensive than sodium lactate and it produces up to 2X the molecular hydrogen of 60% sodium lactate per pound injected.
Rapid Microbial Growth
Provides electron donors, nitrogen, phosphorus, and Vitamin B12 to support fast microbial activity.
No Sodium Salts
60% sodium lactate contains almost 12% sodium! QR75 has less than 0.03% sodium, reducing potential sodium impacts to groundwater.
Easy to Use in Cold Conditions
Low viscosity (150 centipoise at 0 ºC ) and easy handling, even in below zero weather. Freezing point below -30 ºC.
Technical Details
How it Works
1. Distributes Rapidly in Groundwater
As a soluble electron donor, Newman Zone QR75 is easy to inject or distribute using circulation systems.
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
- Can be used in very cold weather, even as an antifreeze to freeze-protect injection equipment.
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:
- 55-gallon Drums (525 pounds net)
- Totes (2,200 pounds net)
Storage:
- Stable for years at ambient temperatures
- Remains pumpable in sub-zero conditions
- Will not freeze at temperatures above -30°C
Safety
- Nonflammable
- No hazardous ingredients
- Not expected to cause adverse health effects when used as intended.
- Prolonged and repeated contact may cause irritation to skin.
QR75 / QR90 Comparison
| Feature | QR75 | QR90 |
|---|---|---|
| Fermentable Material | 75% or more | 90% or more |
| Hydrogen Production | ~2X 60% sodium lactate | ~3X 60% sodium lactate |
| Performance Profile | Cost-efficient fast-release electron donor | Cost-efficient fast-release electron donor |
| Cold Weather Injections | Liquid at-30°C | Liquid at -75°C |
| Storage & Transportation | Not hazardous | Hazardous flammable liquid |
Need to quickly establish anaerobic conditions?
Get guidance on dosing, injection strategy, and combining QR90 with long-term electron donors.
