Permeable Reactive Barrier For Remediation Research Articles

Sustainable use of wastes as reactive material in permeable reactive barrier for remediation of acid mine drainage: Batch and continuous studies

The aim of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of the use of different industrial and agricultural wastes as reactive materials in Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRB) for Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) remediation. Sugar foam (SF), paper mill sludge (PMS), drinking water sludge (DWS) and olive mill waste (OMW) were evaluated in terms of pH neutralization and metal removal from AMD. Laboratory batch tests and continuous pilot scale up-flow columns containing 82% of Volcanic Slag (VS), as porous fill material, and 18% w/w of one of the industrial and agricultural wastes previously indicated, were tested.From the batch tests it was observed that the reactive material presenting the best results were the SF and the PMS. The results obtained in all the PRB were accurately described by a pseudo-first order model, presenting coefficient of determination higher than 0.96 in all the cases.During the continuous operation of the PRB, the porosity and hydraulic retention time (HRT) of most of the up-flow columns strongly decreased due to chemical precipitation and biofilm growth. The SF presented a significant number of fine particles that were washed out by the liquid flow, generating an effluent with very high total suspended solid concentration. Despite SF was the material with the highest alkalinity potential, the reduction of the HRT limited its neutralization and metal removal capacity. PMS and DWS presented the best pollutant removal yields in the continuous operation of the PRB, ranging from 55 to 99% and 55–95% (except in the case of the Mn), respectively. These results allowed the metal removal from the AMD. Additionally, these wastes presented very good biological sulphate reduction.Based on these results, the use of PMS and DWS as reactive material in PRB would allow to simultaneously valorise the industrial waste, which is very interesting within the circular economy framework, and to remove metals from the AMD by means of a low-cost and environmentally sustainable procedure.

Microbe–Mineral Interaction-Induced Microorganism-Augmented Permeable Reactive Barriers for Remediation of Contaminated Soil and Groundwater: A Review

Microbe–Mineral Interaction-Induced Microorganism-Augmented Permeable Reactive Barriers for Remediation of Contaminated Soil and Groundwater: A Review

Optimizing Operational Parameters of Electrokinetic Technique Assisted by a Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Nitrate-Contaminated Soil

Optimizing Operational Parameters of Electrokinetic Technique Assisted by a Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Nitrate-Contaminated Soil

Cement kiln dust-sand permeable reactive barrier for remediation of groundwater contaminated with dissolved benzene

ABSTRACT The interaction of cement kiln dust and simulated acidic groundwater (pH = 3) contaminated with benzene were studied. FTIR results showed that cation−π and H-bonding interactions had a major role in the removal process. The concentration of benzene in the effluent water and hydraulic conductivity of the continuous experiments was used to evaluate the performance of permeable reactive barrier for 60 days. The increase of CKD improves the performance of the bed with efficiency ranged from 40% to 90%, but clear decrease in the hydraulic conductivity was observed due to the accumulation of the benzene in the beginning of the barrier.

Possibility of using granular iron slag by-product as permeable reactive barrier for remediation of simulated water contaminated with lead ions

Possibility of using granular iron slag by-product as permeable reactive barrier for remediation of simulated water contaminated with lead ions

Using different materials as permeable reactive barrier for remediation of groundwater contaminated with landfill’s leachate

The present study investigates the utilization of the waterworks sludge by-product that generated from water supply treatment plant for the remediation of simulated groundwater contaminated with le ...

Actively facilitated permeable reactive barrier for remediation of TCE from a low permeability aquifer: Field application

Proven in situ treatment and remediation approaches are limited for low-permeability aquifers materials, particularly because of limitations to the delivery of reactive chemicals or access to contaminated plumes. In this paper, we describe the development of a cutting-edge solution for the remediation of contaminated groundwater in a low-permeability and low water-bearing aquifer contaminated with the chlorinated hydrocarbon trichloroethylene (TCE). The remediation technique introduced coupling of large-diameter permeable reactive barrier wells (PRB wells) with: (1) extraction wells through in a highly impacted plume; and (2) re-injection wells at the fringe of the plume. A pump-and-treat system (PTS) was employed at the site in a separate plume to reduce the mass of TCE near the second source zone. This research focuses only on the large diameter PRB well system. Conceptual site model development, design considerations, implementation and performance evaluation demonstrated how each of these elements were applied in the field. Approaches for coupling technologies to increase technical and economic feasibility are presented. Extraction and reinjection wells of treated groundwater at the fringe of the plume promoted a positive hydraulic gradient, facilitated groundwater transport through the reactive media, and contained the plume. Detailed geospatial and statistical analysis with over 10 years’ monitoring data showed that dissolved TCE plume delineation shrank, and still concentration continues to decline, and were projected to meet the demands of remediation compliance regulations in the next few years. The results of this study indicate that significant remediation was achieved despite the challenging hydraulic conditions of the aquifer. The developed the remediation technology and conclusions indicate the system’s usefulness at other sites.

Sequential coupling of bio-augmented permeable reactive barriers for remediation of 1,1,1-trichloroethane contaminated groundwater.

Sequential coupling of high-density luffa sponge (HDLS) immobilized microorganism and permeable reactive barriers (IM Bio-PRBs) was superior to intimate coupling of free microorganism and permeable reactive barriers (FM Bio-PRBs) for remediation of 1,1,1-trichloroethane contaminated groundwater. IM Bio-PRBs had much better performance to removal 1,1,1-trichloroethane (1,1,1-TCA) and prevent the transport of 1,1,1-TCA and inorganic ions (NO3-, PO43-, and SO42-). The majority of them were prevented and accumulated in upgradient of IM Bio-PRBs. 1,1,1-TCA and inorganic ions in there contributed to the much faster growth of microorganism in upgradient aquifer. Therefore, the removal of 1,1,1-TCA and consumption of inorganic ions in upgradient of Bio-PRBs played a constructive role in reducing the processing load of following zero-valent iron (ZVI) PRBs and the negative effect of free microorganism cells (biological clogging) and inorganic ions (chemical clogging) on Bio-PRB permeability. In addition, IM Bio-PRBs were more conducive to accelerate the removal of 1,1,1-TCA in long-term remediation and 1,1,1-TCA residual concentration significantly lower than the safety standard of 0.2mgL-1. The change of terminal by-products of 1,1,1-TCA contaminated groundwater in Bio-PRBs showed that 1,1,1-TCA could be effectively de-chlorinated and mineralized in Bio-PRBs. The reductant H2S (prolong the service life of ZVI-PRBs) was much more produced and utilized in IM Bio-PRBs. Taken together, sequentially coupled IM Bio-PRBs had a better overall performance, and its service life could be prolonged. It was a different design and idea to update conventional PRB remediation technology and theory.

Evaluation of Natural Zeolite as a Material for Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Zinc-Contaminated Groundwater Based on Column Study

The permeable reactive barrier (PRB) filled with natural zeolite plays the role of a reactive treatment zone for remediation of contaminated groundwater. Based on column lab experiments, the volume of remediated solution, the distribution (Kd) and retardation (Rd) coefficients were evaluated, confirming successful removal and retention of zinc from contaminated groundwater. The effect of hydrodynamic dispersion on zinc capturing by zeolite in PRB was evaluated by the hydrodynamic dispersion coefficient (DL) and retarded hydrodynamic dispersion coefficient (DLR) using the Brigham method. For different assumed distances of the barrier, the simulation of one-dimensional zinc concentration profile from the point source through the barrier has been modeled by a simple analytical pulse model. The results show that the flow rate has the most significant effect on the concentration profile, peaks, and broadening of curves. The residence contact time (τ) corresponding to higher Kd and Rd as well as lower DL and DLR values outcomes the optimal range of 6.2–9.4 min. This interval corresponds to the experimental performance at the bed length of 8 and 12 cm and flow rate in the range of 6.38–9.57 PV/h. The calculated minimum thickness and longevity confirm the successful application of zeolite as a material in PRB for remediation of zinc contaminated groundwater.

Using sewage sludge as a permeable reactive barrier for remediation of groundwater contaminated with lead and phenol

ABSTRACTWe investigated the efficiency of granular dead anaerobic sludge (GDAS) biosorbent as a permeable reactive barrier for remediation of groundwater contaminated with lead–phenol (Pb-Ph) present simultaneously. Batch tests were performed to characterize the equilibrium sorption properties of the GDAS and sandy soil in the Pb-Ph containing aqueous solutions. Computer solutions (COMSOL) Multiphysics 3.5a software was used for simulating the two-dimensional equilibrium transport of lead–phenol including the sorption process through the saturated sandy soil in the presence of GDAS. A good agreement between the predicted and experimental results was recognized with the root-mean-squared error not exceeding 0.049.

Modeling and performance prediction of chromate reduction by iron oxide coated sand in adsorber reactors

Iron oxide coated sand (IOCS) as an adsorbent medium for removing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from industrial wastewater, as well as in permeable reactive barriers for remediation of Cr(VI) in aquifers is investigated in this study. An important feature was the use of a mathematical model for performance forecasting and process upscaling of IOCS fixed‐bed adsorber systems for Cr(VI) removal. Another significance aspect was the elucidation of IOCS surface mechanisms and interactions responsible for Cr(VI) sorption and reduction to the less toxic Cr(III). The adsorption equilibrium and mass‐transfer parameters for modeling were obtained from independent laboratory studies. Adsorber studies validated the predictive model and established the effectiveness of IOCS for Cr(VI) removal under different conditions. Model simulation studies demonstrated that adsorbent capacity, surface diffusion, and film transfer significantly influenced process dynamics. The study showed that IOCS can be used to remove Cr(VI) from contaminated waters, meeting the overall objectives of regulatory agencies. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 3717–3729, 2016

Use of Sugarcane Bagasse as Carbon Substrate in Permeable Reactive Barriers: Laboratory Batch Tests and Mathematical Modeling

The combination of the lignocellulosic residue sugarcane bagasse and poultry litter as carbon and nutrients sources, respectively, in organic permeable reactive barriers for remediation of metal laden acid mine drainage has not yet been extensively tested and may be promising based on chemical composition. This system is being tested in the laboratory by means of microcosm batch experiments using sugarcane bagasse with and without poultry-litter as nitrogen and phosphorous source. As expected based on the compositions of sugarcane bagasse and poultry litter, the experiments (duplicate) combining both residues achieved the highest rates of sulfate reduction, between ~ 30 to 45 mg sulfate/L-day, and better sustained these rates throughout the duration of the experiment (78 days). Also, pH values increased from ~ 6 to 8, and the oxidation-reduction potential achieved < -100 mV, indicating anaerobic sulfate-reducing conditions. Mathematical modeling performed on these experiments, with a previously-tested model, resulted in simulated results that approached the experimental data when the sugarcane bagasse was modeled as comprising a cellulose fraction with a Contois specific degradation rate similar to that for wood chips and leaf mulch, plus an additional easily-degradable fraction to account for the occurrence of soluble sugars in sugarcane bagasse.

Using Granular Dead Anaerobic Sludge as Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Groundwater Contaminated with Phenol

AbstractThe possibility of using granular dead anaerobic sludge (GDAS) biosorbent as a permeable reactive barrier (PRB) to remove phenol from contaminated shallow groundwater was investigated. Batch tests were performed to characterize the equilibrium sorption properties of GDAS and sandy soil in phenol-containing aqueous solutions. The Langmuir isotherm model gives a better fit for the sorption data of phenol by GDAS and soil than other models under the studied conditions. One-dimensional column experiments were performed at a pilot scale, and an integrated model based on the solution of an advection-reaction-dispersion mass balance equation, using the finite-element method, was developed to study the space and time normalized concentration of phenol within groundwater. Numerical and experimental results proved that the PRB plays a potential role in the restriction of the contaminant plume migration. Also, these results showed that the removal of phenol by PRB was increased as function of its thickness a...

Enhanced biodegradation of phenanthrene using different inoculum types in a microbial fuel cell

Environmental pollution by petroleum hydrocarbons from contaminated groundwater and soils is a serious threat to human health. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) could be employed in the treatment of these recalcitrant pollutants with concomitant bioelectricity generation. In this study, the use of MFCs in biodegradation of phenanthrene, a model hydrocarbon, was investigated with respect to its biodegradation rate, biodegradation efficiency, and power production using a range of inocula (Shewanella oneidensis MR1 14063, Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCTC 10662, mixed cultures, and combinations thereof). All the inocula showed high potentials for phenanthrene degradation with a minimum degradation efficiency of 97%. The best overall performing inoculum was anaerobically digested sludge supplemented with P. aeruginosa NCTC 10662, having a degradation rate, maximum power density and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of 27.30 μM/d, 1.25 mW/m2 and 65.6%, respectively. Adsorption of phenanthrene on the carbon anode was also investigated; it conformed to a Type II adsorption isotherm and could be modelled using a modified Brunauer, Emmett and Teller model with a maximum monolayer capacity of 0.088 mg/cm2. This work highlights the possibility of using MFCs to achieve high degradation rates of phenanthrene through co‐metabolism and could potentially be used as a replacement of permeable reactive barriers for remediation of hydrocarbon‐contaminated groundwater.

Understanding pH effects on trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene adsorption to iron in permeable reactive barriers for groundwater remediation

Metallic iron filings are becoming increasing used in permeable reactive barriers for remediating groundwater contaminated by chlorinated solvents. Understanding solution pH effects on rates of reductive dechlorination in permeable reactive barriers is essential for designing remediation systems that can meet treatment objectives under conditions of varying groundwater properties. The objective of this research was to investigate how the solution pH value affects adsorption of trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE) on metallic iron surfaces. Because adsorption is first required before reductive dechlorination can occur, pH effects on halocarbon adsorption energies may explain pH effects on dechlorination rates. Adsorption energies for TCE and PCE were calculated via molecular mechanics simulations using the Universal force field and a self-consistent reaction field charge equilibration scheme. A range in solution pH values was simulated by varying the amount of atomic hydrogen adsorbed on the iron. The potential energies associated TCE and PCE complexes were dominated by electrostatic interactions, and complex formation with the surface was found to result in significant electron transfer from the iron to the adsorbed halocarbons. Adsorbed atomic hydrogen was found to lower the energies of TCE complexes more than those for PCE. Attractions between atomic hydrogen and iron atoms were more favorable when TCE versus PCE was adsorbed to the iron surface. These two findings are consistent with the experimental observation that changes in solution pH affect TCE reaction rates more than those for PCE.

Removal of Chromium (VI) by Acid-Washed Zero-Valent Iron under Various Groundwater Geochemistry Conditions

The hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) removal capacity of acid-washed zerovalent iron (AW-Fe0) was evaluated under different groundwater geochemistry conditions through column experiments. It was found that each gram of the AW-Fe0 could remove 0.65-1.76 mg of Cr(VI) from synthetic groundwater in the absence of bicarbonate (HCO3-), magnesium and/or calcium ions. Groundwater geochemistry was found to exert various degrees of impact on Cr(VI) removal by the AW-Fe0, in which HCO3- alone gave the mildest impact whereas the copresence of calcium and HCO3- exerted the greatest impact In comparison with the unwashed Fe0, the AW-Fe0 showed a poorer Cr(VI) removal capacity and was also more susceptible to the influence of the dissolved groundwater constituents on Cr(VI) removal,thereby indicating the unsuitability of using AW-Fe0 in permeable reactive barriers for remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated groundwater. On the AW-Fe0 surface, where the indigenous iron precipitates were almost erased, trivalent chromium including chromium (III) oxides, hydroxides, and oxyhydroxides in irregular strip, chick footmark-liked or boulder-liked forms as well as Cr(III)-Cr(VI) mixed oxides were detected.

Design, Construction and Operation of a Funnel and Gate In-Situ Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Groundwater

A white spirit spill at a factory site located in a residentialarea of south eastern Australia led to contamination of shallowgroundwater that fed into a nearby river. The contaminatedgroundwater contained toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylene and n-alkanes in the C6–C36 fraction range. A funnel andgate permeable reactive barrier was designed and built, based onpreliminary pilot scale tests using peat as the medium for thegate and the work conducted is presented as a case study. Thetechnical effectiveness of the funnel and gate, over the 10 monthoperating period in which data was collected, indicates that peatrepresents an effective material for use in the gate component offunnel and gate remedial systems. The application of the funneland gate technology represented a substantial saving to the client and was effective in preventing ongoing pollution of thenearby river. The construction of the funnel and gate system also incurred the minimum disturbance to the public access areasbetween the facility and the river.

Performance evaluation of a permeable reactive barrier for remediation of dissolved chlorinated solvents in groundwater

A pilot-scale permeable reactive barrier (PRB) consisting of granular iron was installed in May 1995 at an industrial facility in New York to evaluate the use of this technology for remediation of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in groundwater. The performance of the barrier was monitored over a 2-year period. Groundwater velocity through the barrier was determined using water level measurements, tracer tests, and in situ velocity measurements. While uncertainty in the measured groundwater velocity hampered interpretation of results, the VOC concentration data from wells in the PRB indicated that VOC degradation rates were similar to those anticipated from laboratory results. Groundwater and core analyses indicated that formation of carbonate precipitates occurred in the upgradient section of the iron zone, however, these precipitates did not appear to adversely affect system performance. There was no indication of microbial fouling of the system over the monitoring period. Based on the observed performance of the pilot, a full-scale iron PRB was installed at the site in December 1997.