Utilizing High Resolution Site Characterization to Maximize Remediation Value in Groundwater and Soil Remediation
Presented on Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Eliot Cooper1, Scott Wisher, PG1 and Michael Mazzarese2, (1)Vironex, Inc., Golden, CO, (2)Vironex, Inc., Millersville, MD
Historically, high resolution site characterization (HRSC) techniques including ultraviolet optical screening tool (UVOST), membrane interface probe (MIP), and electrical conductivity (EC) have been utilized as a troubleshooting technique following months or years of diminishing returns and/or non-performance during in-situ remediation including injections and mechanical system use.
Following a release from an underground storage tank at a site in North Carolina, typical investigative methodologies including direct push sampling, temporary and permanent monitoring well installation, and sampling were utilized to characterize the release and subsequent downgradient migration of BTEX and TPH. Based on limited investigation data including wells which were screened across a large interval, a caustic persulfate injection was designed to oxidize dissolved phase BTEX and TPH in groundwater. Total proposed costs including field work and persulfate topped $100,000.
Based on review of these data, HRSC field activities were suggested to better define contaminant distribution in both the vertical and lateral directions, and to obtain site-specific geochemical data. A limited HRSC program was completed in approximately four field days which included MIP, injection testing including EC evaluation of persulfate distribution, and site-specific analysis of soil oxidant demand.
Following completion of HRSC, total injection volumes in the revised design decreased by more than 40% because of a more refined understanding of contaminant distribution in the subsurface.
This platform presentation will demonstrate the effective use of HRSC techniques from the beginning of investigative activities and provide metrics for total dollars proposed to be spent prior to HRSC and actual dollars spent following a more complete understanding of contaminant mass, distribution, and injection parameters. Total remediation costs can be demonstrated to have been reduced by 35% over the lifespan from release to near closure.
Eliot Cooper
Vironex, Inc., Golden, CO
Eliot Cooper’s background is seasoned with a wide array of industry perspectives and includes more than 30 years of experience in regulatory (EPA), consulting (KPMG), and industry (Amoco Oil). He is a member of the Triad Community of Practice with a mission to expedite the adoption of Triad based technologies. Cooper served as a team member for the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council Chemical Oxidation Work Group and participated in development of the current in-situ chemical oxidation document and associated online training. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois with a master’s in Civil Engineering.
Scott Wisher, PG
Vironex, Inc., Golden, CO
Scott Wisher has been involved with in-situ remediation for more than12 years as both a consultant and in his current role as the Regional Manager for Vironex, the largest provider of specialized remediation services in the U.S. He manages personnel, clients, and P&L for Vironex in this region, and also provides technical oversight to all remediation projects throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Prior to joining Vironex in 2010, Wisher was the Geosciences and Remediation Manager for Bureau Veritas, a multinational consulting firm based in Paris. He is a graduate of Indiana University holding a degree in Geological Sciences.
Michael Mazzarese
Vironex, Inc., Millersville, MD
Michael Mazzarese has been involved with in-situ remediation for more than 13 years. In addition to helping manage the HRSC and remediation programs for Vironex in the eastern U.S., he had a very successful tenure at Regenesis, a provider of patented chemistries for both chemical oxidation and bioremediation. Mazzarese provides technical support for many of Vironex’s East Coast projects both in the design phase as well as field implementation. He is a graduate of Penn State University holding an M.S. degree in Environmental Engineering.
