Evaluation of non-pumped wells with slurry cutoff walls for containing and removing contaminated groundwater

Abstract

A mass transport model simulated low-energy groundwater remediation alternatives, including linear arrays of non-pumped wells fitted with filter cartridges and non-pumped arrays augmented with slurry cutoff walls. The nearest component of each configuration was located 5 m from the leading tip of a contaminant plume, and arrays were oriented perpendicular to the regional hydraulic gradient. Results indicate that single arrays consisting only of non-pumped wells allow contaminants to pass between wells and potentially migrate offsite. A second backup array offset from the first array more effectively contains the contaminant plume. Alternatively, a short slurry cutoff wall used in place of wells at the center of an array, along with two backup wells on either side of the wall, also facilitates onsite containment. Such low-energy approaches may be an effective means for containing and removing some contaminant plumes encountered in practice.