Demonstration of Regenerable, Large-Scale Ion Exchange System Using WBA Resin in Rialto, CA (Drinking Water Treatment - Pilot Scale)

Abstract

Abstract : In 2005, the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) funded Applied Research Associates, Inc (ARA) to demonstrate a regenerable, ion exchange technology, codeveloped with The Purolite Company, using weak base anion (WBA) resin (D-4170) in a groundwater remediation application. The demonstration was conducted at Redstone Arsenal, located near Huntsville, Alabama. Well RS498, a 6-inch extraction well, was selected as the groundwater source for the demonstration. Anion concentrations of the well were as follows: 1,500 to 2,200 parts per billion (ppb) perchlorate (C1O4 -); 4 parts per million (ppm) nitrate; 3 ppm sulfate; 4 ppm chloride; and 190 ppm bicarbonate. Trichloroethene was also present in the groundwater at 3,100 ppb. During the 15-week demonstration, the process successfully removed perchlorate to below the method detection limit (4 ppb) using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Method 314.0. Regeneration was effectively and efficiently accomplished resulting in less than 0.05% spent regenerant volume, based on the water treated. The spent regenerant solution consisted of a relatively safe caustic solution that could be treated for perchlorate by scavenging, using a strong base anion (SBA) resin or by biodegrading after pH adjustment. Based on the successful demonstration at Redstone Arsenal (groundwater remediation-pilot scale), ESTCP funded a follow-on demonstration of the WBA ion exchange technology for a drinking water application. The demonstration had the following objectives: 1) demonstrate complete perchlorate removal, 2) demonstrate efficient and complete WBA resin regeneration, 3) demonstrate a zero-discharge perchlorate scavenger process, and 4) produce treated water that meets all drinking water quality guidelines. The drinking water treatment-pilot scale demonstration was conducted at Plant F17 in Fontana, California.