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Solvent release into a sandy aquifer. 2. Estimation of DNAPL mass based on a multiple-component dissolution model
Kim Broholm1, Stanley Feenstra, John A Cherry
1Waterloo Centre for Groundwater Research, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1, Canada. kib@dhi.dk
Environmental Science & Technology
|January 26, 2005
Summary
Estimating dense nonaqueous-phase liquid (DNAPL) source mass is crucial for groundwater remediation. This study demonstrates how multiple-component dissolution theory effectively quantifies DNAPL mass using contaminant concentration changes over time.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Hydrogeology
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Dense nonaqueous-phase liquids (DNAPLs) are persistent groundwater contaminants.
- Understanding DNAPL source zone characteristics is vital for effective remediation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dissolution and plume development from a heterogeneous DNAPL source.
- To evaluate the applicability of multiple-component dissolution theory for estimating DNAPL source mass.
Main Methods:
- A field experiment involving the release of a chlorinated solvent mixture (trichloroethylene, chloroform, tetrachloroethylene) into a sandy aquifer.
- Monitoring of dissolved-phase plume development over one year.
- Application of multiple-component dissolution theory using time-series concentration data from monitoring points.
Main Results:
- Heterogeneous distribution of DNAPL residuals was confirmed after excavation.
- Concentration ratios of dissolved contaminants changed predictably over time.
- The multiple-component dissolution theory accurately estimated DNAPL source mass.
Conclusions:
- Multiple-component dissolution theory is a valuable tool for estimating DNAPL source mass in the saturated zone.
- The method is independent of groundwater dilution and relies on temporal concentration changes.