Improving the extraction of tetrachloroethylene from soil columns using surfactant gradient systems

In this work, we extend the recently developed gradient approach for surfactant-enhanced remediation of dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL)-impacted sites. The goal of the gradient approach is to maximize the DNAPL solubilization capacity in swollen micelles (Type I aqueous microemulsions) while at the same time minimizing the potential for DNAPL mobilization. In this work, we introduce a modified version of the capillary/trapping curve that we refer to as the gradient curve to help interpret and/or design the gradient approach. The gradient curve presents the residual DNAPL saturation as a function of interfacial tension and microemulsion viscosity. This approach demonstrates that keeping a low viscosity of the microemulsion phase is not only important for keeping a low head loss during surfactant flooding but also to prevent oil mobilization. Eight microemulsion systems were evaluated in this research; these systems were evaluated based on their tetrachloroethylene (PCE) solubilization capacity, interfacial tension (IFT), viscosity, density, and coalescence kinetics. Two of these systems were chosen for evaluation in site-specific column tests using an increasing electrolyte gradient to produce a decreasing IFT/increasing solubilization gradient system. The column studies were conducted with media from Dover Air Force Base in Dover, DE. Both solubilized and mobilized DNAPL were quantified. During the column studies, we observed that substantial PCE was mobilized when the residual level of PCE in the column was significantly higher than the steady-state residual saturation level being approach (as predicted from the gradient curve). Four column studies were performed, three of which were used to asses the validity of the gradient curve in predicting the residual saturation after each gradient step. From these tests we observed that starting IFTs of less than 1 mN/m all produced the same mobilization potential. In the last column, we used an additional gradient step with an initial IFT above 1 mN/m to dramatically reduce the amount of PCE mobilize. Based on the good agreement between column results and projections based on the gradient curve, we propose this as a preferred method for designing gradient surfactant flushing systems.