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Quantification of pore clogging characteristics in potential permeable reactive barrier (PRB) substrates using image
J Wantanaphong1, S J Mooney, E H Bailey
1Environmental Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
Journal of Contaminant Hydrology
|May 27, 2006
Summary
Pore clogging significantly reduces the performance of permeable reactive barriers (PRBs). Novel materials like calcified seaweed and clinoptilolite showed decreased porosity and altered pore structure, potentially limiting their long-term effectiveness in groundwater remediation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Material Science
Background:
- Permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) are crucial for groundwater remediation.
- Pore clogging is a significant concern affecting PRB material performance and longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the impact of pore clogging on the physical porous architecture of clinoptilolite and calcified seaweed.
- To assess the suitability of these novel materials for PRB applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for image acquisition.
- Employed image analysis and distance transform to quantify changes in porosity, pore size, and pore shape.
- Simulated groundwater contamination with heavy metals over 10 months.
Main Results:
- Porosity decreased significantly in both materials: calcified seaweed from ~22% to ~15%, and clinoptilolite from ~22% to ~18%.
- Mean pore size (2D) reduced by ~11% for calcified seaweed and ~7% for clinoptilolite.
- Increased proportion of crack-shaped pores observed, particularly at the bottom of columns.
Conclusions:
- The observed pore clogging and structural alterations significantly impact the performance of clinoptilolite and calcified seaweed as PRB materials.
- The rapid reduction in porosity suggests these materials may be unsuitable for barrier installation in their current form.
- Further research is needed to enhance the durability and longevity of novel PRB materials.
