In-Situ Chemical Oxidization: Process Optimization

Research Advisor: Scott Huling, Ph.D.
(580)436-8610

Groundwater contaminants can be oxidized utilizing various chemical oxidants. Two of the mot commonly used oxidants involve hydrogen peroxide and permanganate. The feasibility of using these chemical oxidants in subsurface remediation systems is dependent on a variety of site-specific conditions, including but not limited to (1) locating the source(s) of contamination, (2) delivery of oxidant to the contaminated zones, (3) background oxidant demand, (4) reaction rate kinetics, (5) reaction byproducts, and (6) attenuation of reaction byproducts. As with any in-situ technology, mass transfer and mass transport limitations may significantly reduce process effectiveness and efficiency. Increasing information suggests that side and competing reactions play integral roles in oxidation treatment but are still not well understood. Overall, there is considerable interest in improving both the understanding of process fundamentals and the applied use of these oxidants in subsurface systems. Specifically, there is interest in the interaction of these chemical oxidants with chemical species associated with soil and aquifer materials and with target and non-target contaminants. Each of these chemical oxidants has specific costs, physical and chemical characteristics, and transport characteristics, which translate into specific advantages and disadvantages when applied under different site-specific conditions. The advantages of each oxidant may be realized under specific conditions for optimal cost effectiveness and oxidation efficiency. A mass balance approach can be used in detailed studies to investigate process fundamentals and to accurately assess contaminant transformation. Research investigations will involve laboratory and/or field studies.

In-Situ Chemical Oxidization: Process Optimization

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