bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved direct push technologies: Quicker and cheaper on‐site methods for sampling and monitoring
Authors: Maxwell R. Steven , Hildebrand Linda F.
Published: February 2007

Cost‐effective remedial action is dependent on clear identification of site conditions and accurate delineation of contamination. Many site cleanups have been hampered by complex subsurface conditions. Standard drilling and monitoring well installations have proven to be costly and time‐consuming. Improved direct push technologies, however, are being developed to perform quicker and less expensive on‐site sampling and testing. This article describes the benefits of improved direct push technologies.
Soil washing treatability tests for pesticide‐contaminated soil
Authors: Frederick Raymond M. , Krishnamurthy S.
Published: February 2007

The 1987 Sand Creek Operable Unit 5 record of decision (ROD) identified soil washing as the selected technology to remediate soils contaminated with high levels of organochlorine pesticides, herbicides, and metals. Initial treatability tests conducted to assess the applicability of soil washing technology did not effectively evaluate the removal of the elevated contaminant concentrations that were found. To further evaluate the applicability of soil washing at this industrial site, a second more comprehensive pilot‐scale treatability test was conducted.

Twenty‐three test runs were conducted over a two‐week period in late September 1992, using a pilot‐scale soil washing device called the volume reduction unit (VRU). The experimental design evaluated the effects of two wash temperatures, two pH levels, three surfactants, four surfactant concentrations, and two liquid‐to‐soil ratios on the contaminant removal efficiency of the soil washing process. Site soils from layers at three different depths were used in the study.

Results from the pilot‐scale treatability test indicated that the VRU could achieve contaminant reduction efficiencies of 97 percent for heptachlor and greater than 91 percent for dieldrin in the uppermost contaminated soils (surface to 1‐ft. depth). Residual concentrations of heptachlor and dieldrin in the treated soil ranged from 50 ppm to less than 1.6 ppm, and 6.8 ppm to less than 1.6 ppm, respectively. However, the analytical method detection limit of 1.6 ppm was not low enough to provide residual concentration data at the risk‐based action levels of 0.55 ppm for heptachlor and 0.15 ppm for dieldrin.
Stabilization and delisting of hazardous wastes: An effective approach for reducing high sludge disposal costs
Authors: Macgregor Alan , Kraeski Michael
Published: February 2007

Delisting (up‐front or not) of hazardous waste streams (with or without stabilization or any other form of treatment) can be an effective approach for reducing high sludge disposal costs because a nonhazardous classification of the waste will alleviate the financial burden associated with the disposal costs. Facilities may petition EPA to remove individual waste streams from regulation as listed hazardous wastes under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). EPA encourages the use of up‐front delisting petitions because they have the advantage of allowing the applicant to know what treatment levels for constituents should be sufficient to render specific wastes nonhazardous before investing in new or modified waste treatment systems. Thus, up‐front delisting allows new facilities to receive exclusions prior to generating wastes that, without upfront exclusions, would unnecessarily have been considered hazardous. On July 18, 1991, EPA proposed to use the EPA Composite Model for Landfills (EPACML) when considering delisting petitions and evaluating the impact of the petitioned waste on human health and the environment. The use of the EPACML provides consistency in delisting decisions. Further, this new model allows a two‐to‐three‐times higher dilution than the previously used Vertical and Horizontal Spread (VHS) model. This article presents case studies from several industry sectors where stabilization and delisting were used to manage wastes in a reliable, cost‐effective, and environmentally sound manner.
Environmental mediation: Cutting to the chase in environmental dispute resolution
Authors: Smith Diane R.
Published: February 2007

The following quote from Abraham Lincoln, dated 1850, should be kept in mind by all environmental attorneys: “Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser—in fees, expenses, and waste of time. As a peacemaker, the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good [person]. There will still be business enough.” This article discusses mediation and mediation skills as invaluable tools for settling and managing environmental issues.
Monitoring parameters and statistics: A land treatment unit monitoring case study
Authors: Brewster Annette , Flynn Brian P.
Published: February 2007

Statistical evaluation procedures for monitoring data at facilities permitted under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) are frequently established before monitoring begins. Selecting the statistical method before background data have been collected often leads to the use of statistical procedures that are inappropriate for the actual monitoring data. Such was the case for unsaturated zone monitoring at a permitted land treatment unit in the Gulf Coast area of Texas. Due to the large number of “not detected” results in the background database for lysimeters, statistical evaluation procedures specified in the original RCRA permit yielded an artificially low standard deviation, resulting in background values that were strongly biased on the low side. An alternate statistical procedure based on probability plots was developed and was accepted by the state environmental regulatory agency. This technique, which has wide applicability for many types of environmental monitoring data, significantly reduced the chasing of false positives, thus saving potentially expensive investigations and remediations.
Evaluation of a chemical stabilization process
Authors: Weissinger Thomas R. , Girovich Mark J.
Published: February 2007

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) performed an evaluation of a biosolids chemical stabilization process known as BIO*FIX®, marketed by Bio Gro Systems, Inc., of Annapolis, Maryland. The purpose of the evaluation was (1) to assess major characteristics of the process and its final product, (2) to determine the quantity and final disposition of all components in the incoming biosolids, and (3) to determine if the process conforms to new regulations promulgated and administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) titled “Standards for the Use or Disposal of Sewage Sludges” (40 CFR Part 503).

The BIO*FIX® chemical stabilization process involves the addition of calcium oxide (CaO) to dewatered biosolids at rates that achieve the pathogen reduction and vector attraction reduction requirements of the 503 program while creating a marketable end product used as an agricultural amendment.

ERM's project involved the testing of four process streams in order to create a mass balance on the process. Laboratory analyses were performed on samples of the dewatered biosolids, the chemically‐stabilized end product, and the scrubber water effluent. The primary components of concern tested in the above process streams were ammonia, metals, odorous compounds, particulate matter, and organic matter.

Through the tests described in the article, ERM drew the following conclusions: (1) The major gaseous pollutant resulting from the BIO*FIX® process is gaseous ammonia. The total gaseous ammonia released from the product depends on the ammonia nitrogen content of the biosolids, and pH and temperature levels reached in the process. Additional ammonia is emitted when the end product is loaded in trucks and stored. Any gaseous ammonia remaining in the end product after processing will slowly dissipate over time. (2) Other potential odor pollutants such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and mercaptans were found to be below detectable levels in the uncontrolled exhaust gas. (3) Metals were not found in the exhaust gas in any detectable quantities. They would not be expected to volatilize during the process. Particulate matter emissions were found to be very low. (4) The pathogen reduction and vector attraction reduction requirements of the 40 CFR 503 regulations were met or exceeded. (5) Finally, through observations and tests, ERM found that the BIO*FIX® chemical stabilization process provides for a simple, viable, and effective conversion of biosolids into a beneficial use product in compliance with all pertinent regulations.
In‐situ bioremediation of an aquifer contaminated with 1,2‐dichloroethane
Authors: Michiels Thierry , Breugelmans Dirk
Published: February 2007

This article describes the application of in‐situ bioremediation for the treatment of an aquifer contaminated with 1,2‐dichloroethane (DCA). The first step in the process was to properly delineate the contamination and to contain the contaminated groundwater using a pumping well. The second step was to isolate in the groundwater microorganisms able to degrade DCA and to demonstrate the possibility of increasing their efficiency by injecting in‐situ nutrients and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) solution. In the third step, after the characterization of the hydrogeology of the aquifer with tracing experiments, the in‐situ bioremediation of the groundwater was conducted. The analyses show that 95 percent of DCA was destroyed by this treatment, leading to a DCA concentration around the pumping well of about 0.2 mg/l.
Getting remedial action plans approved by state agencies
Authors: Maurer Thomas K.
Published: February 2007

Thousands of contaminated sites around the country never get caught in the sticky web of Superfund. Instead, they are handled by state environmental agencies under state environmental laws and rules. Generally speaking, state environmental programs appear to function much more efficiently than Superfund. But even though they are easier to work with than Superfund, state contamination cleanup programs can still be daunting. This article offers some points and suggestions for making the state process work smoothly and efficiently.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of the seamistTM borehole liner system
Authors: Henriksen Anne DePiante
Published: February 2007

SEAMISTTM is an innovative technology that facilitates measurements of contaminants in both vertical and horizontal boreholes. The essence of SEAMISTTM is an airtight membrane liner pneumatically emplaced inside the borehole and maintained with positive pressure. Sampling ports, absorbent collectors, and various in‐situ measuring devices can be fabricated into the liner. Small instruments and cameras can be guided through the borehole to obtain real‐time data.

This article reports on the cost and performance effectiveness of this new technology. In this report, SEAMISTTM is evaluated as a tool for obtaining data on volatile organic compounds, semivolatile organic compounds, other water‐borne contaminants, and radionuclides. SEAMISTTM is also compared to traditional borehole casing, to conventional soil vapor probes, and to conventional pore‐fluid collecting lysimeters. The most cost‐ and performance‐effective applications of SEAMISTTM are shown to be those applications for which multiple characterization requirements can be combined into one SEAMISTTM membrane system.
Alternatives to incineration in remediation of soil and sediments assessed
Authors: Exner Jurgen H.
Published: February 2007

Contamination of soil and sediment by pollutants represents a major environmental challenge. Remediation of soil during the original Superfund years consisted primarily of dig and haul, capping, or containment. The 1986 amendments to CERCLA—SARA—provided the incentive for treatment and permanent remedies during site remediation. Thermal treatment, which routinely achieves the low cleanup criteria required by RCRA land‐ban regulations, became one of the major technologies used for cleanup under the concept of ARAR. As the remediation industry matured and recognized specific market niches in soil remediation, a number of new technologies emerged. Thermal desorption, bioremediation, soil vapor extraction, soil washing, and soil extraction are being used on sites at which the technology offers advantages over incineration. In addition, a continuing stream of emerging technologies is being presented that requires careful evaluation relative to existing cleanup methods. Each of these technologies offers a range of options for achieving appropriate cleanup criteria, application to different soil matrices, cost, time of remediation, and public acceptability. Balancing cleanup criteria defined by regulation or risk assessment with technology cost and capability affords the opportunity to solve these problems with appropriate balance of cost and protection of human health and the environment.
Financing remediation by delisting and selling clean portions of affected property
Authors: Nestor Anthony S. , Adamowski Scott J.
Published: February 2007

It is an established fact that property owners can face significant liabilities as a result of an on‐site environmental contamination problem. This paper outlines a successful, innovative remedial strategy that, in conjunction with agency negotiation, afforded a property owner minimal financial expenditure and, at the same time, facilitated property cleanup and reuse. The strategy includes the delisting and sale of “clean” portions of the property to obtain the finances necessary to remediate the remaining “impacted” portion of the property.

Previous investigations performed by EPA indicate the affected area to be a five to seven acre area located in the northeast portion of the property. Since a portion of the property was affected, significant restrictions for long‐term use were placed on the entire property.

A summary of environmental data generated for the property was prepared and submitted to the agency. This data summary communicated a strategy which was developed to delist and sell the “clean” portion of the property and to use the proceeds to clean up the affected property. To accomplish this, several tasks were outlined, including work‐plan preparation and submittal, data collection, and interim remedial activities. In addition, a risk assessment is planned to identify potential threats to receptors downgradient of the impacted areas.

This strategy allows the owner of an environmentally distressed property to use financial assets of the property to facilitate an acceptable solution with both regulatory agencies and the surrounding community.
Optimizing data usability in the remedial process
Authors: Yancheski Tad B.
Published: February 2007

Large quantities of data are collected and evaluated throughout every stage of the remedial process. The usability of these data is often a function of the perceived “quality” of the data, with good data considered usable and bad data considered unusable. The assessment of data quality and usability has traditionally focused on analytical and other direct measurement errors and uncertainty. However, problems with the data that are measurement‐related are usually a relatively minor portion of the total error and uncertainty.

Error and uncertainty are introduced throughout every aspect of any remedial process, including planning errors, measurement errors, and interpretation errors. Although each error component is important, the errors and uncertainty associated with the design, collection, and interpretation of data are often much greater than measurement‐related errors.

Nevertheless, there is typically a disproportionate level of effort expended addressing the minor types of measurement errors when compared to other more important error components in the remedial process. However, the key to obtaining optimum data use requires the general redirection of Data Quality Assurance (DQA) activities from measurement‐related errors/uncertainty to other important planning and interpretation elements.

The elements considered essential for developing an effective approach for maximizing data usability include: focused project planning activities stressing a rigorous data quality objective process and a geostatistical approach to the design of the data collection program; the development of sensible and appropriate data validation/review objectives; and the development of realistic error and uncertainty limits for measurement/analytical activities.
Analysis of soil vapor extraction laboratory data to obtain equilibrium constants
Authors: Klei Herbert E. , Klemmer Christopher R. , Bramley David L. , Curtis Michael D. , Kennett Gary
Published: February 2007

A method of analyzing soil vapor extraction (SVE) laboratory data using a sample of contaminated soil is presented to allow the calculation of equilibrium constants for an assumed gas/soil equilibrium expression. The constants can be determined for any compound measured in the exit gas. A Freundlich equilibrium expression was shown to represent the equilibrium in a soil contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) and several aromatic solvents.
Mercury cleanup: The commercial application of a new mercury removal/recovery technology
Authors: Rose Michael V. , Weyand Thomas E. , Koshinski Casimir J.
Published: February 2007

Efficient, economical treatment of mercury‐contaminated soils and industrial wastes requires a treatment process that reduces mercury content to near background levels (<1 ppm) and recovers the removed mercury in pure recyclable form without producing liquid, solid, or gaseous secondary wastes. This article reviews the results achieved using a medium‐temperature thermal desorption process developed and commercialized by Mercury Recovery Services, Inc. (MRS) that has successfully achieved these goals.
The revenge of OSHA: The new asbestos regulations
Authors: Smith Diane R.
Published: February 2007

After suits by the AFL‐CIO and the Service Employees International Union demanding more worker protection, OSHA published new proposed asbestos regulations in 1990. Hearings were held in 1991. Everyone was very interested. Nothing happened for about three years. Then, just when everyone thought they had their “asbestos problems” figured out, along came the new October 11, 1994, asbestos rules. Look out building owners, property management companies, abatement contractors, and asbestos consultants—it's your turn to cry.
Survey: Bioremediation contractors guarantee performance
Authors: Sobieraj James A. , Simon John A.
Published: February 2007

Experience with bioremediation technology has enabled bioremediation contractors to offer performance‐based contracts for many types of bioremediation projects. This development is significant because it alleviates the previous concern with the technology regarding its lack of success at certain sites. Environmental Strategies Corporation, an independent environmental consulting firm with no financial interest in bioremediation technology, conducted an independent survey to identify bioremediation contractors that are willing to enter into performance‐based bioremediation contracts. This article discusses the background of treating contaminated soil and groundwater using bioremediation and describes how a performance‐based contract can be structured. The survey's format and results are then presented and analyzed. Finally, several case studies of successful bioremediation projects are presented.
Techniques for successfully implementing in‐situ remediation systems
Authors: Fulton David E.
Published: February 2007

As the remediation industry rapidly matures, a greater emphasis is placed on providing on‐site remedies involving in‐situ soil and groundwater technologies. Selecting and implementing cost‐effective technologies requires a defined working process focused on integrating the relationship between the design engineer/scientist and the remedial contractor. This article briefly explores various contractual vehicles and their effect on the designer/contractor relationship and identifies preconstruction documents needed to initiate a remedial construction program. A detailed discussion is presented that describes the transition from remedial design to remedial construction and offers practical application of preconstruction, construction, and postconstruction techniques. Preconstruction techniques involve communication processes and procedures designed to reduce installation uncertainty, address constructability issues, promote value engineering alternatives, and reaffirm the project objectives. Construction techniques focus on effective ways to communicate and document problems and solutions encountered during construction activities. Postconstruction techniques describe ways to provide useful information that may have a continued effect on system performance or used to document the achievement of project goals.
Using risk assessment to achieve cost‐effective property transfers and site closures for former UST sites
Authors: Copeland Teri L. , Pesin Richard , Barfield Lisa
Published: February 2007

Risk assessment has been increasingly applied as a tool in making risk management decisions that affect cleanup of contaminated sites, property transactions, and liability issues. As a site‐specific evaluation, risk assessment takes into account the unique characteristics and intended future uses for site property in evaluating chemical concentrations which may remain in place without risk to public health and the environment. The results of a risk assessment can be used to determine reuse options for a property, facilitate site closure, and reduce liabilities (Copeland and Robles, 1994; Copeland et al., 1993a).

This article describes the risk assessment process, the role of risk assessment in determining the need for remedial action and identifying site‐specific cleanup goals, and the cost effectiveness of applying risk assessment in remedial decisions. Because of the prevalence of former UST sites throughout the United States, this article focuses on risk assessment and remediation of UST sites. However, the process can be applied at sites where other chemicals have been released. Three case studies are presented to illustrate the application of risk assessment in achieving cost‐effective site closure at sites containing leaking underground storage tanks.
Sensitivity analysis for setting soil cleanup standards
Authors: Patrick Penelope A. , Reece Karen D. , Callahan Barbara G.
Published: February 2007

In recent years, many states have sought to set soil standards for hazardous waste sites. For example, Michigan and Oregon have had soil standards for several years, and within the last three years Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas have derived soil standards; while Illinois and several other states are in the process of developing soil standards. In general, soil cleanup standards are set to protect against leaching to groundwater and direct contact with soil. This article reviews several agencies' protocols and presents a sensitivity analysis of parameters used to establish these soil cleanup standards.

Major issues examined in this article include land use (residential versus commercial/industrial) and exposure parameters used for deriving soil cleanup standards for direct contact. Soil cleanup standards are developed considering exposure routes such as ingestion, dermal contact, inhalation of vapors, and fugitive dust. Other factors such as chemical/physical properties are also considered. For example, many states use Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) or EPA Method 1312 Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) to derive soil standards protective of leaching to groundwater.

The results indicate that factors such as leaching and certain exposure assumptions play a key role in determining soil cleanup standards. Exposure pathways were examined by performing a sensitivity analysis using a generic equation to consider exposure from ingestion, dermal contact, and inhalation of soil in deriving soil cleanup standards. The sensitivity analysis indicates that selection of exposure parameters such as toxicity values and soil‐to‐skin adherence factors contribute more substantially than others. These two factors are also among those values with the greatest uncertainty. Selection of exposure pathways is also important for the derivation of soil cleanup standards. For example, inhalation is the most significant exposure pathway for volatile organic compounds such as toluene, yet many states do not evaluate this exposure route. These findings are based on the mathematical models used by the agencies, and no judgments are made on the validity of the models. The results of this analysis can help focus attention on the most sensitive parameters as federal government reforms environment policies (i.e., CERCLA and RCRA) and the development of national soil cleanup standards is debated.
Systematically selecting an alternative to remediate soil contaminating groundwater
Authors: Elmore Andrew Curtis
Published: February 2007

Contaminated soil is a continuing source of ground water contamination at some hazardous waste sites. Even if that soil does not pose a threat to human health or the environment, soil remediation may benefit ground‐water cleanup in terms of time, money, or protectiveness. A method has been developed to provide a systematic manner to select a soil cleanup alternative. Using commercially available Windows‐based software, the method consists of the development of a decision tree whose chance nodes are the restoration time frame probability distributions. Uncertainty associated with site data is quantitatively evaluated using Monte Carlo analysis to develop the probability distributions. The decision tree selects the alternative with the lowest cost. Data from an actual remedial investigation/feasibility study demonstrate the ease and practicality of the selection method.
Characterizing soils contaminated with heavy metals: A uranium contamination case study
Authors: Tidwell Vincent C. , Morris David E. , Cunnane James C. , Lee S. Y.
Published: February 2007

To stem rising remediation costs for soils contaminated with hazardous metals, increased emphasis is being placed on the development of in‐situ and ex‐situ treatment technologies. Often, a lack of basic information on the chemical and physical characteristics of the soil and contaminants hampers treatability studies used to design these technologies. This article proposes and demonstrates a characterization program to meet these information needs, employing standard analytical techniques coupled with advanced spectroscopy and microscopy techniques. To support treatments involving physical separation strategies, the program uses standard analytical techniques to characterize the soil and the association of contaminants with different soil fractions (e.g., size and density fractions). Where chemical treatments are required, spectroscopy and microscopy methods are employed to yield quantitative information on the oxidation state and speciation of the contaminant. Examples demonstrate the use of measured soil and contaminant characteristics in the screening of alternative treatment technologies and in the selection of soils for use in treatability studies. Also demonstrated is the use of these characterization tools in the design and optimization of treatment strategies and in support of risk assessment determinations.
Passive soil vapor extraction: A cost effectiveness study
Authors: Cummings Mark , Booth Steven R.
Published: February 2007

An analysis of the cost effectiveness of passive soil vapor extraction (PSVE) is presented. PSVE, or “barometric pumping,” is an approach to the remediation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that seeks to harness and enhance the naturally occurring processes of wind and atmospheric pressure changes to facilitate the release of gas‐phase contaminants from the subsurface. The technology background and current status are discussed, niches for the potential applicability of PSVE are identified, and a cost comparison with the conventional treatment method of active soil vapor extraction (ASVE) is examined.
Unit costs for decontamination and dismantlement of structures
Authors: Folga Stephen , Davis Michael J. , Janke Robert J.
Published: February 2007

A series of relationships have been developed for estimating unit costs for decontamination and dismantlement (D&D) of a number of structure types. These relationships may be applied in the absence of other data to obtain rough order‐of‐magnitude cost estimates for D&D activities. The relationships were developed using D&D costs estimated for various types of buildings at the U.S. Department of Energy Fernald site. These unit costs take into account the level of radiological contamination as well as the building size and type.
Radiological risks and cleanup costs: A remediation case study
Authors: Hong Kou‐John , Moos Lawrence , Yu Charley , Gabel Andrew D.
Published: February 2007

Potential health risks and cleanup costs are primary factors for measuring the effectiveness of a remediation project concerning a site contaminated with residual radioactive materials. Demanding cleanup of a contaminated site to its original condition, while eliminating any health risks after cleanup, can require prohibitive costs. However, by setting practical remediation objectives and by performing realistic but conservative risk assessments, health risks can be acceptable and cleanup costs can be reasonable. This article uses the South‐Middle and Southeast Vaults Decontamination and Demolition Project at Argonne National Laboratory to demonstrate how negligible health risks can result after cleanup with minimal cleanup costs. Substantial cost savings of approximately $2 million was realized by implementing in‐place decontamination and demolition (D&D) on the basis of acceptable risk, instead of requiring cleanup of the site to its original condition. By using the RESRAD computer program as a modeling tool, we show the maximum projected radiation dose (0.1 mrem per year) and the potential lifetime cancer risk (on the order of 106) to an individual from exposure to the residual radioactivities are negligibly small. In addition to aiding in the selection of a preferred remediation alternative, results of the RESRAD modeling were also used to guide the implementation of the selected alternative to reduce exposures from the dominant pathway and to ensure that exposures from all pathways would be as low as reasonably achievable.
Integration of RBCA frameworks and remediation technologies
Authors: Odencrantz Joseph E. , Duran David
Published: February 2007

Decisions that determine the proper risk‐based remediation approach are based on technical, regulatory, cost, legal, and political factors. A wide variety of options such as the ASTM RBCA tiered approach, the API Decision Support Software, and a host of agency‐specific methods and commercial risk assessment software are all available. The optimization of a remediation project requires the right remediation technology coupled with the appropriate analytical framework. For groundwater remediation, the application of various “risk reduction” technologies can be classified as aggressive (pump and treat), moderate intensity (air sparging), low intensity (oxygen release compound‐ORC®), and intrinsic (monitor only). The time frame of risk analysis will establish the proper risk reduction strategy. The selection process is inherently iterative, and the approach by which an optimal solution can be derived forms the basis of this article. A case study of a Texas site put these issues into context.
Emerging technologies for in‐situ groundwater remediation
Authors: Bryda Lisa K. , Morris Peter E.
Published: February 2007

There are numerous technologies currently being tested by EPA, universities throughout the world, and private research organizations. A few of the more promising innovative technologies as well as fully tested and proven remedies for treating contaminated groundwater are presented in this article. Although several of those technologies have been in existence for only four to five years, the results of full‐scale testing are being produced. The method for each of these promising technologies is described, results from recent field‐scale studies are summarized, and a discussion of cost is presented.
Hazardous chemical site remediation through capping: Problems with long‐term protection
Authors: Lee G. Fred , Jones‐Lee Anne
Published: February 2007

The capping of waste management units and contaminated soils is receiving increasing attention as a low‐cost method for hazardous chemical site remediation. Capping is used to prevent further groundwater pollution by existing waste management units and contaminated soils through limiting the moisture that enters the wastes. In principle, for wastes located above the water table, the construction of an impermeable cap can prevent leaching of the wastes (leachate generation) and groundwater pollution. In practice, appropriately designed and constructed RCRA caps can provide for only short‐term prevention of groundwater pollution. Alternative approaches are available for capping of wastes that can be effective in preventing moisture from entering the wastes and concomitant groundwater pollution. These approaches recognize the inability of the typical RCRA cap to keep wastes dry for as long as waste constituents will be a threat and, most importantly, provide the necessary funds to effectively address all plausible worst‐case scenario failures that could occur at a capped waste management unit or contaminated soil area.
Application of In‐Situ Vitrification at the Parsons Chemical Site
Authors: Timmerman Craig L. , Zintak Leonard N.
Published: February 2007

This article presents the results of demonstration of Geosafe Corporation's in‐situ vitrification (ISV) technology at the Parsons Chemical/ETM Enterprises Superfund site in Grand Ledge, Michigan. The primary focus of this article is on the EPA's Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) Program assessment of the sixth melt. A total of eight melts were performed during this project. This demonstration was part of the SITE Program Demonstration (USEPA, 1994), which helped develop innovative hazardous waste treatment technologies, especially those offering permanent remedies for contaminated Superfund and other hazardous waste sites. The demonstration results are not only applicable to this particular project, but are also indicative of other Geosafe project experiences and demonstrate the current state of the ISV technology. The demonstration included two phases. In the first phase, the ISV technology was used to treat the Parsons contaminated soil. In the second phase, post‐testing and analysis were conducted about one year after the ISV technology was applied to confirm that the vitrification was completed and that no contamination migration had occurred.
Making the CERCLA Criteria Analysis of Remedial Alternatives More Objective
Authors: Grelk Brian J. , Kloeber Jack M. , Jackson Jack A. , Parnell Gregory S. , Deckro Richard F.
Published: February 2007

This article shows how decision analysis techniques assisted decision makers in the critical RI/FS task of technology selection at a specific Superfund site. Each remediation alternative's performance was quantified by creating a set of objective evaluation measures tied to the criteria mandated in the comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980. The evaluation measure scores were input into a quantitative decision analysis model used to rank alternatives based on their performance relative to the CERCLA criteria, and to provide insight to the sensitivity of the results to changes in decision maker preferences or technology performance. The model is designed to reflect the site decision maker's preferences and the site‐specific characteristics within the framework of the nine CERCLA criteria. This model will give Superfund site decision makers an objective and transparent framework to evaluate remedial technologies.
Examination of a New Remedial Technology for Capping Contaminated Sediments: Large‐Scale Laboratory Evaluation of Sediment Mixing and Cap Resistance to Erosive Forces
Authors: Hull John H. , Jersak Joseph M. , McDonald Blair J.
Published: February 2007

The potential effectiveness of a new composite‐aggregate capping technology, AquaBlokTM—in physically isolating contaminated, fine‐grained sediments derived from an Ohio, Lake Erie tributary—was evaluated in the laboratory. In particular, large‐scale settling‐column studies were conducted to determine the degree to which composite‐aggregate material penetrates into and/or mixes with the sediment, perhaps affecting the degree to which sediment could be physically isolated through capping. Additionally, large‐scale flume studies were conducted to determine resistance of the composite‐aggregate material to significant and long‐term, fluvial‐like erosive forces; the resistance of other potential capping materials was also evaluated for comparison. Experimental results indicate that the composite‐aggregate material effectively isolates sediment through the formation of a continuous and relatively erosion‐resistant, hydrated capping layer atop the sediments.
You Know Your Environmental Contractor Is Out of Control When…
Authors: Hippensteel David L.
Published: February 2007

Far too often private industry is caught in situations where they become responsible for environmental characterization and remediation projects. The processes involved in successfully completing such tasks may be foreign to the responsible industry. In such cases, an environmental contractor is hired to perform the necessary work. While many environmental contractors claim a high level of ethics and customer orientation, the very essence of their jobs should make the responsible industrial client wary. Far too often, environmental characterizations and remediations become too drawn out and costly. Far too often, environmental contractors need “just a little more data” to complete otherwise simple tasks. To guard against the phenomenon of “never‐ending environmental work,” responsible industrial clients that do not have environmental expertise on their staff would do well to retain a senior level independent environmental contractor to watch out for the best interests of the responsible industry. While the hiring of a contractor to watch a contractor may seem redundant and cost inefficient, the truth of the matter is the exact opposite. By bringing in an expert in environmental characterization and remediation, the responsible industrial client essentially hires another technical employee. It is best to hire this person as a member of the company to avoid additional overhead costs. If such an “environmental guardian” cannot be hired or found, then the responsible industrial client must learn to recognize the warning signs of an environmental characterization or remediation project that is out of control and should be stopped and regrouped. These warning signs become more apparent as time goes on (and money is spent). Having an experienced independent environmental contractor “look over the shoulder” of another contractor is just good business sense. One could say that it is the “potentially responsible party's” (PRP's) right to a second opinion.
Phytoremediation of Hazardous Wastes: Potential Regulatory Acceptability
Authors: Rock Steven A. , Sayre Philip G.
Published: February 2007

Phytoremediation has received attention recently, due to promising field test results that indicate potential cost savings when compared with conventional treatments. The various plant‐based technologies that comprise the category phytoremediation have some similarities, many differences, and different possible applications. Each application will be site specific and must be evaluated on a case‐by‐case basis by a regulator. A treatment remedy must be “protective of human health and the environment, maintain protection over time, and minimize untreated waste” (40 CFR 300.430). The regulator's view of phytoremediation is the same as for any proposed remediation technology and asks the basic questions, “Why do you think this technology will decrease risk to human health and the environment, and how will you show that it works?” This article reviews issues related to acceptance of the technology and discusses some of the regulations that may be applicable to phytoremediation.
Remediation of groundwater contamination through conjunctive use of landfill gas management and soil vapor extraction
Authors: Hibbs Sherrie
Published: February 2007

The recently completed performance testing of a conjunctive‐use operation has demonstrated the applicability of combined landfill gas and Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) removal with overall contaminant migration management. The extraction of landfill gas (with subsequent control of off‐site gas migration) and the removal of VOCs from the landfill gas/soil air environment will minimize VOC solubilization in the underlying groundwater. This, in turn, will permit cost efficient management of contaminant migration at the site.
Evaluation of surface water quality impacts of hazardous chemical sites
Authors: Lee G. Fred , Jones‐Lee Anne
Published: February 2007

Common deficiencies in the typical evaluation of the surface water quality impacts of hazardous chemical sites are discussed. Particular attention is given to deficiencies in monitoring stormwater runoff, as well as the input of contaminated groundwaters that lead to impairment of the beneficial uses of nearby surface waters because of site‐derived hazardous and deleterious chemicals. An alternative approach, Evaluation Monitoring, is presented in this paper. Evaluation Monitoring shifts the monitoring program from periodic sampling and analysis of stormwater runoff and ambient waters for a suite of chemical parameters, to examining the receiving waters to determine what, if any, water quality use impairments are occurring in surface waters due to the runoff‐associated constituents and shallow groundwater input.
A comparison of mesophilic composting and unamended land treatment for the bioremediation of aged tar residues in soil
Authors: Guerin Turlough F.
Published: February 2007

A field study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of land treatment and mesophilic composting in removing aged polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) from soil. The soil composting treatment, which had 20 percent (w/w) fresh organic matter incorporated into the soil, reached mesophilic temperatures of 45 to 50°C at week 3–4 and was effective in reducing PAH from 2240 mg/kg to 120 mg/kg after 224 days of treatment. Conventional land treatment with and without added cow manure (5 percent w/w) was less effective in removing the PAH from the soil than was the mesophilic soil composting treatment. In a parallel laboratory trial, PAH concentrations were reduced below 500 mg/kg (the target cleanup concentration for the site) when the contaminated soil was amended with 20 to 30 percent (w/w) fresh organic matter after 186 days of treatment. PAH degradation was lower in the laboratory trial compared with the field trial and no self‐heating of soil was demonstrated in the laboratory. Based on the relatively high total heterotrophic and naphthalene‐degrading microbial populations in the nonsterile treatments, it was apparent that the absence of microorganisms was unlikely to have limited the biodegradation of PAH in the current study. Fresh organic matter amendments of green tree waste and cow manure, regular mixing of the compost, and maintenance of moisture by regular watering were critical factors in achieving the target PAH concentrations.
In‐situ bioremediation of amine‐ and glycol‐contaminated soils using low‐intervention methods
Authors: Lee Douglas W. , Portier Ralph J.
Published: February 2007

Biological plugs are an innovative, low‐intervention, in‐situ bioremediation methodology for both saturated and unsaturated contaminated soils. They are modular in‐ground immobilized microbe bioreactors designed to rapidly increase the oxidation of organic contaminants by placing an adapted consortia of microorganisms in close proximity to the contaminants of concern. The approach is versatile, in that contaminants can be remediated in‐situ without the removal of existing structures as well as being able to efficiently and economically treat contaminants over a large area. Amine‐ and glycol‐contaminated soils at gas sweetening plants, represent a significant problem in magnitude, prevalence, and risk along pipelines stretching through Canada's western provinces. A field pilot study was conducted at an isolated former gas sweetening plant in northwestern Alberta. Monoethyamine (MEA) and several glycols were successfully remediated in situ in a 138‐day time frame. Soil toxicity was significantly reduced. The engineering challenges and associated economics of remediating such isolated sites are also presented.
Rethinking groundwater monitoring at the Hanford Site
Authors: Michael Daniel , Dresel Evan , Chou Charissa , Murray Chris , Gilbert Dick , Pulsipher Brent
Published: February 2007

Groundwater monitoring at Department of Energy's (DOE's) Hanford Site is a large, expensive undertaking serving multiple purposes, including compliance with regulations and DOE orders, remediation efforts under CERCLA, and sitewide risk evaluations. Like most large Federal facilities, the monitoring program currently in place has evolved and grown overtime as new requirements were established and groups were assigned to address them. DOE and its regulators simultaneously awakened to the fact that there was a need to reevaluate the monitoring activities at Hanford, to better integrate the program, to avoid duplicative sampling, to improve everyone's understanding of the performance of the network, and to evaluate whether adequate data could be collected for lower cost. This paper describes the approch that was developed to guide the rethinking effort with direct and extensive involvement of DOE, EPA, Washington Department of Ecology, Indian Tribes, and DOE Contractors, and how this approach was applied to a large portion of the site. Both the human element of the process (cultural change), as well as some of the technical details associated with the effort, including a flexible application of EPA's data quality objectives process, are discussed.
Validation of petroleum hydrocarbon extraction methodologies
Authors: Guerin Turlough F.
Published: February 2007

Solvents, the extraction time and extraction method, influence the quantification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil. This paper emphasizes the importance of establishing, and being consistent in the application of, a vigorous extraction, particularly for commercial laboratories that handle samples of soil in batches, at different times, from a single site investigation or remediation process. It is important that laboratories are aware of the performance of their soil contaminant extraction procedures. Equally important is that analytical laboratories communicate to you, the practitioner and user of the data, what variables there are in soil contaminant extractions, whether it be PAH, fuel, or recalcitrant organics, and how these can impact on the final data quality.