Use of sonication for in-well softening of semivolatile organic compounds. 1998 annual progress report

Abstract

'This project investigates the in-situ degradation of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using in-well sonication, in-well vapor stripping, and biodegradation. The project has the primary objectives of developing this integrated system for efficient and economical removal and degradation of SVOCs and VOCs from groundwater. The project has as its goal the partial degradation (softening) of the more recalcitrant organic compounds in order to convert them into compounds that are more amenable to both air sparging and biological treatment. By performing the softening in-well, the treated organics can be reinjected and percolated through the subsurface, thereby enhancing biodegradation by generating organics that are more easily biodegraded. This report summarizes work after nearly 2 years of a 3-year project. Argonne National Laboratory is developing a new technology that combines in-well sonication, in-well vapor stripping, and in-situ biodegradation for removal of SVOCs and VOCs from solution. Bench-scale batch experiments have been performed investigating the separate treatment systems involving stripping and sonication of halogenated organics in groundwater, along with the combined sonication/stripping system. Organic contaminants studied include: trichloroethylene (TCE), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 ), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethane (TCA), and ethylene dibromide (EDB). Initial organic concentrations range from {approximately}10 to {approximately}100 mg/L. Results of the sonication and vapor stripping experiments are available upon request.'