An additional benefit of hydrogen peroxide and Fenton's Reagent is the temporary increase of oxygen levels in and around the treatment area. The increased oxygen levels at the fringes of the treatment area can enhance naturally occurring aerobic biodegradation processes that reduce contaminant mass. While there may be concerns about oxidizing hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria in the chemical oxidation treatment area, many studies have shown that soil cannot be readily sterilized by Fenton's Reagent and that microbial populations rapidly rebound following chemical oxidation treatment. In addition to enhancing aerobic biodegradation, reduce nitrogen and sulfur are oxidized to nitrate and sulfate, which can be used by anaerobic microbes
