Synergism effect of mixed surfactant solutions in remediation of soil contaminated with PCE

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of mixed surfactant solution for removal of perchlorethylene (PCE) in sandy soil. Ten different surfactant solutions were used in column studies. Mixed surfactant solutions (anionic and nonionic) were most effectively worked in the sandy soil for removal of PCE as a result of synergism between the two types of surfactants. The effectiveness of the mixture of surfactants [anionic DOSL (Diphenyl Oxide Disulfonates) and nonionic Tween 60] was 35–38% greater than that for the anionic or nonionic surfactant alone. However, synergism between the anionic SDS (Sodium N-dodecyl Sulfate) and the anionic DOSL was not observed. Cause of the lack of synergism in a mixture of the two anionic surfactants is uncertain but may result from the twin head structure of DOSL. The results indicate that mixed surfactant solution (1∶1 mixture of anionic and nonionic) leaching is a promising candidate for the remediation of PCE contaminated sandy soil.