United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Research And
Development
(RD-675)
20R-1001
January 1990
v>EPA
Hazardous Substance
Research Centers
Program
Annual Report
FY1989
Office of Exploratory Research
Printed on Recycled Paper
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U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
OFFICE OF EXPLORATORY RESEARCH
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE RESEARCH CENTERS PROGRAM
FY 1989
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
introduction page l
Map: Hazardous Substance Research Centers
and Directors page 5
Chapter 1 (Region-Pair 1/2) page 6
Contacts page 6
Budget page 8
Highlights page 10
List of Projects page 13
Project Description page 15
Bibliography page 29
Chapter 2 (Region-Pair 3/5} page 31
Contacts page 31
Budget page 33
Highlights page 37
List of Projects page 39
Project Descriptions page 41
Bibliography page 57
Chapter 3 (Region-Pair 4/6} page 58
Contacts page 58
Budget page 59
Highlights page 60
List of Proj ects page 63
Project Descriptions page 65
Bibliography page 7 6
Chapter 4 (Region-Pair 7/8} page 77
Contacts page 77
Budget page 79
Highlights page 80
List of Projects page 82
Project Descriptions page 83
Bibliography page 103
Chapter 5 (Region-Pair 9/10} page 108
Contacts page 108
Budget page 109
Highlights page ill
List of Projects page 116
Project Descriptions page 118
Bibliography page 136
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INTRODUCTION
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the
Hazardous Substance Research Center (HSRC) program in response to
provisions in the 1986 amendments to the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA,
also known as "Superfund") and the Agency's 1988 Appropriation
Act.
Section 311(d) of the amended Superfund enabled EPA to
establish between five and ten university-based HSRCs, whose
missions would be to study all aspects of the "manufacture, use,
transportation, disposal, and management of hazardous substances
and publication and dissemination of the results of such research."
The law further instructed that these centers must be distributed
"equitably among the regions of the United States", that recipients
must dedicate not less than 5% of the center's resources to
technology transfer, and that EPA's contribution to the support of
these centers could not exceed 80% of the total funding for each
center. The law provided a total of $25 million over a five-year
period for the support of this program.
When EPA received its 1988 Appropriation, that law provided
$5 million annually and contained language which further defined
the boundaries of the program. This law specified that no more
than five centers would be established and that these must be
established competitively.
The EPA Administrator delegated authority for the management
of this program to the Director, Office of Exploratory Research
(OER). It is the primary mission of OER to provide support to the
academic environmental research community through several vehicles,
including a program of investigator-initiated grants and
'competitively selected research centers. This office was,
therefore, the logical choice to design and manage the HSRC
program.
To solve the problem of equitable geographic distribution of
the five research centers, it was decided that EPA would establish
five geographic subsections of the country, corresponding to two
contiguous federal regions. Each of these "region-pairs" would
contain one HSRC. The map depicted on page 5 of this report
indicates the states contained in each region-pair and the lead
institution of the center it contains. Briefly, the geographic
partitions are as follows:
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Region-Pair 1/2. which includes the New England states, New
York, New Jersey, and the territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S.
Virgin Islands.
Region-Pair 3/5. comprised of the Great Lakes states and the
mid-Atlantic states of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland,
Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
Region-Pair 4/6. which is made up of the Gulf Coast and
southern states.
Region-Pair 7/8. which contains the states on the eastern side
of the Great Basin and the Great Plains.
Region-Pair 9/10. which serves the states of the West Coast,
plus Idaho, Arizona, Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam.
A detailed solicitation for proposals to establish centers in
these five region-pairs was prepared and published on March 22,
1988. It appeared first in the Federal Register, then was
distributed directly to the more than 3,000 universities across the
country which have declared research capabilities. Announcements
of the program were published in Science and Environmental Science.
and Technology. These announcements generated over 200 requests
for copies of the solicitation.
Proposers were given a three-month period to respond to the
solicitation which, given the scope and depth required, was not
very long. Nevertheless, 33 proposals were received from eligible
competitors. These proposals were reviewed by five separate panels
consisting of between 11 and 17 nationally and internationally
recognized experts in hazardous substance research, engineering,
and technology transfer. The reviews were comprehensive and multi-
tiered, and included two intensive scoring sessions based on
proposal contents and, in two cases, site visits to the leading
contenders. The final panel recommendations were made to the
Agency in October 1989. The five proposers who had been
recommended were invited to submit formal applications for federal
assistance. All five centers were funded and in place by February
1989.
All fiv« of the centers are multi-university consortiums.
These center* are:
Northeast H>i>rdous Substance Research Center —— The lead
institution is the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the
Center Director is Dr. Richard Magee. Other consortium partners
include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Tufts
University, Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of Technology,
Princeton University, and the University of Medicine and Dentistry
of New Jersey.
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lesearch
center — This three-university consortium is headed by Dr. Walter
Weber, of the University of Michigan. Michigan State University
and Howard University are the partner institutions.
Waste Minimiiation and Management Center — North Carolina
State University heads this center, in partnership with the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Texas Agricultural
and Mechanical University. The Center Director is Dr. Michael
Overcash, of North Carolina State University.
Hazardous Substance Research Center for Federal Regions
7 St 8 — This large consortium is run by Dr. Larry Erickson, of
Kansas State University. The other six participating institutions
are Montana State University and the Universities of Iowa,
Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, and Utah.
Western Region Hazardous Substance Research Center — Stanford
University and Oregon State University make up this consortium.
Dr. Perry McCarty, of Stanford University, is the Center Director.
Each center received an initial grant for a three-year project
period. Subject to successful completion of a peer evaluation
after two years of operation, the centers can be renewed for
another five-year project period, for a total life span, under this
program, of eight years. The budget for each center during the
first three years of operation is expected to be approximately $4
million, with an expected $1 million per center annually after
that.
In addition to performing quality innovative research on
critical problems associated with hazardous substances, each of
these centers is required under the terms of the solicitation to
dedicate between 10 and 20% of its total budget to training and
technology transfer activities in support of the center's mission.
To assist each center director in selecting research topics to
pursue and ensure the continued high quality of the center's
research, each center is required to establish and maintain a
Science Advisory Committee made up of acknowledged experts in
relevant disciplines from the federal government, academia, the
private sector, and state and local government. This body must
convene at least twice annually. A similar group must be
established to help the center director plan and manage his
training and technology transfer program. The Training and
Technology Transfer Advisory Committee, comprised of qualified
individuals from EPA, industry, state and local government, private
trainers, and others, must meet at least once a year.
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The five centers have complementary but not overlapping
missions. Several mechanisms are in place to assist in the
coordination of activities among the centers, including shared
advisory committee members, a required annual meeting of center
directors, frequent conference calls among center directors, mutual
attendance at individual center functions, joint sponsorship of
conferences and workshops, and numerous informal coordination
mechanisms.
In the chapters that follow, the research, training, and
technology transfer programs of each center are described in
detail. Questions about the activities of plans of individual
centers should be directed to the center director, whose names,
addresses, and phone numbers appear at the beginning of the chapter
for that center. Questions pertaining to the HSRC program in
general may be directed to:
Karen Morehouse
Director, Centers Program
Office of Exploratory Research (RD-675)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
Phone: 202/382-5750
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HRZRRDOUS SUBSTRNCE RESEHHCH CENTERS RND DIRECTORS
Or Larry E. Erickson
Dept of Chemical Engmeefing
DurlandHall
Kansas Stale University
Manhattan. Kansas 66506
913/532-5564
Dr. Walter J. Weber, Jr
DepL ot Civil Engineering
2340 C G Brawn Building
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor. Miehyan 40109-2125
313/763-2274
Or Richard Magee, Drector
Hazardous Substance Management
Research Center
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Newark. New Jersey 07102
201/596-3233
Or Perry L McCarty
Center Director
Dept. of Crvil Engineering
Stanford University
Stanford. California 94306
415/723-4131
Dr. Michael R. Overcash
Dept of Chemical Engineering
North Carohna State University
Rateigh, Norti Carolina 27695-7001
91ftT737-2325
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Chapter It
Northeast Hazardous substance R««aaroh cant«r
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Center;
Participants;
Director;
Northeast Hazardous Substance Research Center
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Princeton University
Rutgers University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Tufts University
University of Medicine and
Dentistry of New Jersey
Richard S. Magee, Director
Northeast Hazardous Substance Research Center
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Newark, New Jersey 07102
Phone: 201/596-3006
FAX: 201/802-1946
THE CENTER AT A GLANCE
The Northeast Hazardous Substance Research Center (NHSRC) for
Federal Region Pair 1 and 2 was established in February 1989. New
Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is the lead institution in
a seven-member consortium formed to establish the Center.
Consortium members include Massachusetts Institute of Technology,
Princeton University, Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of
Technology, Tufts University, and the University of Medicine and
Dentistry of New Jersey.
The Center's administrative headquarters are located in the
new Advanced Technology Center building at NJIT. The Center is
guided by an 18-member Science Advisory Committee and a 14-member
Training and Technology Transfer Advisory Committee. Key personnel
currently working for the Center are listed in Table 1.
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Table it Key Personnel in the NHSRC
New Jersey Institute
of Technology
P.M. Annanente
B.C. Baltzis
J.W. Bozzelli
G. Lewandowski
W. Librizzi
R. Magee
Rutgers University
C. Chess
M.S. Finstein
M. Greenberg
P.M. Sandman
P.P. Strom
Princeton University
P.R. Jaffee
G. Pinder
Massachusetts Institute
of Technology
J.P. Longwell
D. McLaughlin
W.A. Peters
A.F. Sarofim
R.B. Barat
G.S. Darivaksi
S. Chisolm
A. Ducatman
J.R. Ehrenfeld
J.B. Howard
Tufts University
B. Cole
A. Cortese
S. Krimsky
D.R. Walt
Stevens Institute of Technology
K.K. Sirkar
Regions 1 and 2 are unique in their combination of age of
industrial activity, density of population, economic activity,
concentration of chemical and pharmaceutical industries, and
rapidly developing high-tech industries. Former waste handling
and disposal practices created a large number of sites which have
been identified and placed on the National Priorities List.
Remediation of these sites is difficult and costly; approximately
75% have groundwater contamination. Treatment, storage, and
disposal facility capacity in the region-pair is insufficient.
Improved technologies for pre-treatment of industrial wastes are
needed. These needs provide the stimulus for the Center's research
focus.
After soliciting advice from its Science Advisory Committee
(SAC), the. Center has decided to focus its initial research efforts
on remediation and treatment techniques. At its November 2, 1989
meeting, the) SAC considered 36 proposals of which 11 were
continuations and 25 were new topics. The proposals presented
ideas in the areas of incineration, groundwater remediation, soil
remediation, and treatment. The SAC recommended continued support
of all but one ongoing study. The top proposals in each category,
as ranked by the SAC, will be initiated.
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The needs of the region-pair also require increased focus on
training and technology transfer as they relate to the Center's
research agenda, as well as to the expanding scientific and
engineering activities in the hazardous waste management field.
The Training and Technology Transfer Advisory Committee (TTAC) has
recommended that the Center focus its efforts on activities that
advance the state-of-the-art and do not overlap/duplicate ongoing
activities, particularly EPA and State on-going training and
technology transfer programs.
Table 2: Center Budget
FUNDING SOURCES FY 1989 FUNDS
EPA: Centers Program $2,000,000
Consortium 752,342
Other Government* 78.094
TOTAL $2,830,436
*NJ Commission on Science and Technology
CENTER DIRECTOR*8 REPORT
Over 100 faculty and staff are currently working on hazardous
substance related research within the consortium institutions. The
expertise covers chemical, civil, and mechanical engineering;
chemistry; environmental biology; hydrology; geology; toxicology;
risk assessment; and public policy. The Northeast Hazardous
Substance Research Center (NHSRC) was proposed as the nucleus to
bring this research effort together and focus on hazardous
substance problems of concern in Regions 1 and 2.
The Center's initial program focus is intentionally broad, to
draw on its large pool of talented researchers. Following a review
of Northeast Hazardous Substance Research Center's research needs
assessment, the Center's SAC recommended that the Center focus its
research efforts in technology development and demonstration, with
emphasis on remediation and treatment. Further, these two major
research areas encompass a wide range of hazardous substance
management problems and Superfund remediation challenges facing the
region-pair. The SAC strongly urged the need for in-situ
remediation technologies, while recognizing that sites will
continue to be remediated using removal/treat technologies. They
stressed that researchers should pay special attention to the
intermedia efforts, such as impacts on air quality as a result of
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in-situ extraction or impacts on water quality which may result
from in-situ biotreatment of contaminated soils. Hazardous
substance treatment technologies that address both treatment of
industrial wastes and wastes at contaminated sites were encouraged.
These include incineration, separation, stabilization, and
biotreatment technologies.
Interest and participation from faculty at the consortium
schools in the activities of the Center are strong. Thirty-six
research proposals, including twenty-five new projects, were
submitted for funding consideration in 1990. These proposals were
equally distributed among four major research areas: incineration,
soil remediation, groundwater remediation, and waste treatment.
The SAC reviewed these proposals at its November 2, 1989 meeting
and recommended 25 proposals for funding consideration on the basis
of scientific merit and relevance to the research needs of the
region-pair. Since the budget requests for these proposals
exceeded the Center's funding capacity, the SAC further reduced the
list to the top 18 proposals. The Director plans to fund these 18
projects which include 10 continuations and 8 new research topics.
The major thrusts of the Center include thermal treatment
(incineration) and remediation (soil and groundwater).
The Center's program for Training and Technology Transfer
focuses on development and application of approaches that expand
or complement on-going training and technology transfer programs,
particularly those of EPA and the states. To the greatest extent
possible, such approaches must provide innovative and imaginative
concepts that advance the state of the art, meet the defined needs
of Regions 1 and 2, and be potentially adaptable for broader use.
The TTAC identified three important areas that can have significant
impact on the hazardous substance management program: project
management, consideration and use of alternative treatment
technologies, and pollution prevention.
A total of six proposals were submitted for review by the
Center's TTAC. These proposals included training initiatives for
alternative treatment technologies and risk communication, and
technology transfer for emerging waste management technologies,
bioremediation and groundwater remediation. The TTAC reviewed
these proposals at its November 1, 1989 meeting and recommended
funding for five proposals: (1) Overcoming Organizational Barriers
to Risk Conunication (continuation), (2) Emerging Waste Management
Technologies: A State-of-the-Art Review and Seminar, (3) In-Depth
Training in Alternative/Innovative Technology Options for Remedial
Actions at Hazardous Waste Sites (this project is a cooperative
effort among the Center, New York Sate Center for Hazardous Waste
Management-State University of New York at Buffalo, and the New
York State Department of Environmental Protection), (4) In-Depth
Training in Alternative/Innovative Technology Options for Remedial
Actions at Hazardous Waste Sites (this project expands the delivery
of the Center/New York State agenda), and (5) Groundwater
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Contamination Conference. Further, they recommended that a four-
page newsletter be published quarterly. The publication can be
topic or issue specific and include research summaries or bulletins
and a question and answer column.
The Center is off to a strong start with an active research
program and a comprehensive technology transfer and training
program. The Center's two advisory committees have been extremely
helpful in assisting Center management in refining its focus and
research thrusts. The Director has encountered no difficulty in
administering a multi-disciplinary, multi-university program. A
solid foundation has been established upon which the Center will
build in the years ahead.
HIGHLIGHTS TOR 1989
Aquifer Bioremediation
Bioremediation of contaminated aquifers is a promising
restoration technique. A typical bioreclamation design calls for
the introduction of nutrients through wells and circulation of
these nutrients through the contaminated zone by pumping one or
more wells. Supplementation of the nutrient levels and electron
acceptors and recirculation of the water allow the indigenous
microbial flora to decompose the contaminants more rapidly than
under natural conditions. Nutrients are introduced at point
sources, and clogging of soil has often been observed in the
vicinity of injection wells due to a large production of biomass
in aerobic cases, or the production of biogases in anaerobic cases.
Hence, it is difficult to distribute the nutrients uniformly within
the contaminated region and achieve biodegradation in regions that
are not in the direct vicinity of the wells.
Professor Peter Jaffe, Princeton University, has developed a
mathematical model for the aerobic case and has verified the model
with laboratory data. This model is currently being used to
examine strategies for the injection of growth substrates to
maximize the zone of biologic activity and minimize plugging of
soil. The results will demonstrate an efficient way to inject a
carbon source into the subsurface, and should enhance the applica-
tion of bioremediation schemes to treat contaminated aquifers. The
availability of bioremediation technologies will enable EPA to
decontaminate aquifers in a more timely and economic manner.
Remote Sensing Groundirater Monitor
Groundwater monitoring is essential in several environmental
management scenarios including managing the integrity of
underground storage tanks and groundwater resources, as well as
when performing remedial actions at waste sites. Conventional
laboratory techniques suffer from several inherent problems and
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limitations often associated with alterations to the sample during
the sampling procedure. Professor David Walt, Tufts University,
has been working to develop a fiber optic sensor that changes its
fluorescence characteristics when in contact with volatile organic
compounds. It is constructed by fixing a vapor-absorbing polymer
to the distal tip of an optical fiber. The layer contains an
intimately mixed dye that changes its fluorescence properties in
response to organic vapors. Sensors respond to organic vapors
between 0.1 and 10,000 ppm.
A portable instrument has been constructed and has been tested
in conjunction with the fiber sensors. Field test studies at
contaminated sites in New Hampshire and Massachusetts are underway.
Technology transfer from paper studies, laboratory to field
demonstrations, or policy implementation is a critical concern for
industry, government agencies, and academia, and is an issue of the
highest priority for EPA. The proposed project speaks directly to
this issue by accelerating a highly-successful laboratory-based
project with a field-based component to provide the essential
program development necessary to encourage an early application of
the new technology.
Incineration of Chlorocarbons
Incineration is currently viewed as a practical option for the
disposal of chlorinated hydrocarbon (CHC) wastes. However, it has
been observed that high CHC loadings in fuels fired in rotary kilns
can result in destabilization of these turbulent flames and may
increase subsequent products of incomplete combustion (PIC). For
CHC incineration to be viable, a detailed understanding of the
effects of chlorine on hydrocarbon oxidation in flames is
necessary.
Mr. R. Barat, Professors A. Sarofim and J. Longwell of the
Chemical Engineering Department of MIT, and Professor J. Bozzelli
of the Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Environmental Science
Department of NJIT, examined the destablizing effects of methyl
chloride on a fuel lean ethylene/air flame in a toroidal jet
stirred combustor (TJSC). The TJSC emulates the highly circulated
flame stabilization zone in many large scale burners. It is in
this zone vhere CHCs are most likely to affect incinerator
performance.
A detailed chemical reaction mechanism for fuel lean methyl
chloride oxidation has been constructed. Sensitivity analyses of
near calculated TJSC blowout offer some fascinating insights into
the destablizing effects of chlorine. The chlorine complicates the
combustion chemistry in a manner which results in significant flame
destabilization.
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The mechanism is presently being refined. Conditions or
additions which will reduce or eliminate the inhibition by chlorine
are being explored. Once the full effects of chlorine are
understood, the incinerator operations can be altered to minimize
the production of PICs when disposing of CHCs. A reduction in PIC
emissions supports EPA's risk reduction goal when managing
hazardous wastes.
Alternative Technologies
Hazardous waste management programs for cleaning up inactive
disposal sites have evolved away from disposal of contaminated
materials in secure landfills to the application of permanent
remedies based on the use of alternative technologies. This
evolution has resulted from the growing concern regarding
protection of groundwater resources, insufficient landfill
capacity, and the desire to effect a permanent remedy so that there
remains no risk to human health and environment.
To implement alternative treatment technologies successfully,
EPA Project Managers (RPMs) and State Project Managers (SPMs) must
have a strong basic knowledge and understanding of
these technologies, including the particular conditions under which
such technologies can be effective. They need to be familiar with
the status of technology development and the prospects for
demonstration of recently developed technologies. EPA RPMs and
SPMs need to have a working knowledge of the operational
characteristics, constraints and limitations, and residuals
management for each applicable technology. For these reasons, it
is critical that effective training and technology transfer
programs be conducted for EPA and State project managers to provide
the depth of knowledge and understanding required to promote and
implement appropriate alternative/innovative technologies.
The Center maintains close relations with other institutions
in the region-pair conducting hazardous substance research programs
and educational activities. This has resulted in the establishment
of a joint effort between the Center, the New York State Center for
Hazardous Waste Management (CHWM) located at the state University
of New York at Buffalo, and the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (DEC). The Center and CHWM will develop
and deliver two technical workshops on these topics related to the
remediation of inactive hazardous waste disposal sites. These two
technology areas are: (1) thermal destruction and (2) treatment
of soil and groundwater contaminated with metals. These two areas
have been selected on the basis of a needs survey conducted by the
Hazardous Waste Remediation Division of the New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation, and represent critical
areas of concern throughout Regions 1 and 2. These workshops and
related instructional materials will be suitable for delivery
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throughout the region-pair, and it is likely that they will be
applicable in other geographic areas as well.
Training Activities
Successful implementation of a sustained and effective
hazardous waste program requires a well-trained cadre of on-scene
coordinators/regional project managers (OSC/RPM). EPA has
initiated the Superfund Training Institute (SUTI) concept to
contribute to the development of staff, by providing basic and
advanced training in a number of critical areas that aid EPA in
developing experienced and knowledgeable OSC/RPMs, who are being
called upon to manage the clean-up of an expanding number of sites
with complex administrative, legal, and technical challenges.
To assist EPA in this effort, the Center is developing an in-
depth advanced training program for Federal and State OSC/RPMs in
three critical areas: (1) legal issues, (2) contract
administration, and (3) site management. Experts in the areas of
focus will use lectures, case studies, and exercises to provide
OSC/RPMs with a substantial understanding of the technical
concepts, their practical applications, and the available tools
that facilitate and enhance their ability to fulfill their
responsibilities. The successful completion of this initiative
will form the foundation for the establishment of a SUTI to
continue the advanced training activity.
SUMMARY OF ONGOING PROJECTS
Investigators Project Title
Groundvater Remediation
Jaffe Design of Aerobic and Anaerobic Aquifer
Biomanipulation Schemes
Armanente/ Treatment of Contaminated Groundwater with
LewandowsJci Bioreactors Utilizing a White Rot Fungus
Pinder Investigation Into Dissolution of DNAPL in the
Subsurface
McLaughlin Real-Time Monitoring and Control of Groundwater
Contamination
Walt Field Based Testing of a New Remote Sensing
Groundwater Monitor
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Finstein/ Optimization of Biological Soil Remediation
Storm
Howard/ Fundamental Studies of Solids Devolatilization
Darivakis/ for Hazardous Waste Destruction
Peters
Chisolm DNA Characteristics of Indigenous Microbial
Communities as Indicator of Mutagenic Hazardous
Waste Exposure
Incineration
Barat/ Effects of Chlorocarbons on Flame Intermit-
Sarofim/ tency Stability and Efficiency in a Well
Longwell Stirred Reactor
Bozzelli Thermal Oxidation Studies on Chloromethane and
Chlorobenzene-Detailed Mechanism of Hydrocarbon
Flames Doped with Chlorocarbons
Waste Treatment
Baltzis/ A Dynamic Model of Sequencing Batch Reactors
Lewandowski
Sirkar Removal and Recovery of Heavy Metals from Waste
Water by Hollow Fiber Contained Liquid Membrane
Technique
Training and Technology Transfer
Cortese Promotion of Existing Training/Technology
Transfer Courses-EMI
Ducatman Research Laboratory Hazards Management
Chess Looking Within: Organizational Factors in Risk
Sandman Communication
Krimsky/ Emerging Paradigms of Risk and Risk
Plough Communication and the Policy Implications: A
Cultural Synthesis
Ehrenfeld Conference on Incineration Modeling
Magee/ National Conference on Regional Issues
Fischer
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PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Qroundvatar Remediation
Design of Aerobic and Anaerobic Aquifer Biomanipulation schemes:
P.R. Jaffee, Princeton University
Goal; The goal of this research is to learn through laboratory
experimentation and computer simulations how to operate in-situ
bioremediation schemes for the decontamination of aquifers. The
main emphasis of the research is on optimizing the injection of
growth substrates into the subsurface so as to obtain a uniform
region of biostimulation without inducing excessive clogging in the
vicinity of the injection well.
Rationale; Clogging of soil has often been observed in the
vicinity of injection wells due to a large production of biomass
in aerobic cases, or the production of biogases, such as nitrogen
or methane, in anaerobic cases. Furthermore, because organisms
that degrade chlorinated solvents need additional growth
substrates, which are used up very rapidly in the vicinity of
injection wells, it is not clear how to achieve biodegradation of
these solvents in regions that are not in the direct vicinity of
the wells.
Approach; A mathematical model is being developed that simulates
the processes involved in bioremediation schemes, and the model
will be verified against a specially designed experimental column
study.
Status; A mathematical model has been constructed for the aerobic
case and has been verified against laboratory data. This model is
currently being used to examine strategies for injection growth
substrates in order to maximize the zone of biologic activity and
minimize plugging of the soil. The simulations will be completed
by December 1989. Anaerobic experiments are being conducted in
which the degradation of TCE is monitored as a function of the
growth substrate. Based on these results, experiments will be
designed to study the anaerobic scenario further. Completion of
the anaerobic work is expected by December 1991.
Treatment of Contaminated Qroundwater with Bioreactors utilizing
a Whit* Rot Funguss P.M. Armanente (P.I.) and G. Lewandowski (Co-
Pi) , New Jersey Institute of Technology
Ooalt The goal of the project is to determine the optimal reactor
configuration and the optimal operating conditions required to
maximize the degradation activity of the fungus Phanerochaete
chrvsosporium against a number of toxic chlorinated aromatic
compounds.
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Rational*: Previous results have shown that this fungus holds
great potential for detoxifying aqueous streams contaminated with
chlorinated compounds. In spite of the current knowledge on the
microbiology of this microorganism, very little information is
available for engineers to use in designing, scaling-up, and
operating a decontamination system using this fungus. Without this
information, the fungus cannot be used in field applications, and
feasibility studies cannot be conducted. The project is focused
on the determination of such engineering information, and on the
modeling of the dynamics of the decontamination process.
Approach: The fungal detoxification activity is studied in
different types of reactors, such as continuously stirred tank
reactors or packed bed columns, under different operating
conditions, including critical nutrient concentrations, feed rate
of toxic stream to reactor, and temperature, against several toxic
compounds of interest to industry. The disappearance of the toxic
compound and the appearance of non-toxic products are monitored,
and a mathematical model is developed to predict the performance
of the reactors as operating conditions are changed. This model
can then be used to determine reactor scale-up rules and other
relevant engineering information necessary for the implementation
of this technology.
Status: Experiments are in progress with a model toxic compound
(2-chlorophenol). Additional toxic compounds have been selected
and experiments with them will begin in the near future. The
mathematical model is being developed and tested against the
available experimental data.
Investigation Into the Dissolution of DNAPL in the Subsurface:
G. Finder, Princeton University (now at the University of Vermont)
Goal; The goal of this research is to develop a method for
removing DNAPL (Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids) from the
subsurface so they can be treated in surface facilities.
Rationale; It is well known that small amounts of alcohol can
significantly modify the solubility of organic solvents, such as
TCE, in water. It is also recognized that it is difficult, if not
impossible in many instances, to remove organic solvents by
attempting to pump them using conventional well technology.
Finally, th« oil industry possesses the technology to remove
residual oil from reservoirs by displacing and, to a certain degree
dissolving, the oil using a secondary fluid. This research
combines these concepts to produce a technique that will use oil
reservoir hydrodynamic concepts to dissolve and displace DNAPL
using injected water containing selected alcohols.
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Approach: The project will proceed as follows: (1) various
alcohols will be evaluated as solvents in the sense described
above, (2) of the alcohols tested, the one that appears to be the
most effective and environmentally safe will be tested in a
laboratory situation involving flow through a soil column, and (3)
given successful completion of Step 2, the concept will be tested
in the field. At this point, Ciba-Geigy Corporation has indicated
an interest in pursuing a field level test of the concept.
status: At this time, Step 1 has been successfully completed and
work on Step 2 has been initiated. Even at this early stage, it
is evident that the concept is probably viable.
Real-Time Monitoring and Control of Oroundvater Contamination:
D. McLaughlin, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Goal: The overall goal of this project is to develop practical
methods for characterizing and controlling contamination at
hazardous waste sites when field data are limited. The immediate
objective is to test the feasibility of sequential (or real-time)
methods of designing field sampling programs at such sites.
Rationale: Successful groundwater remediation depends strongly on
the ability to describe and predict the spatial distribution of
subsurface contaminant plumes. This is a difficult task when field
data are limited and soil properties are heterogeneous, as they are
in most practical applications. This project is intended to
provide new methods of designing monitoring and remediation
strategies which explicitly recognize the importance of
heterogene ity.
Approach; The key to the real-time approach is to combine
information gained from field sampling programs with information
obtained from physically-based models of contaminant transport.
Field samples are used to update model-based estimates of
groundwater velocity and contaminant concentration. The updated
estimates are, in turn, used to guide subsequent sampling and
remediation efforts.
Status: During the first year of this project, which is scheduled
for completion on February 14, 1990, real-time monitoring concepts
were tested at a contaminated coal-tar disposal site. The lessons
learned tram this field test can then be used to improve our
approach.
Field-Based Tasting of a New Remote Sensing aroundvater Monitor:
D.R. Walt, Tufts University
Goal; This project aims to develop a new fiber optic groundwater
contaminant detector as a practical tool for in-situ sensing, and
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to facilitate an early transfer of this new technology to the
solution of environmental problems through the creation of
prototype equipment, materials, and testing protocols. The
detector is based on a fiber optic sensor that changes its
fluorescence properties in contact with volatile organic compounds.
Rationale: Groundwater monitoring now plays a pivotal role in the
management of underground storage tanks, remedial actions at waste
sites, and in the effort to preserve and protect groundwater
resources. Current monitoring strategies employing conventional
laboratory techniques have several inherent problems and
limitations. The sampling procedure may alter the sample being
taken, retrieval of results is often slow and costly. In addition,
chain-of-custody concerns relative to data documentation are quite
expensive.
Approach; The sensor operates on the basis of a fluorescence
signal enhancement when placed in contact with volatile organic
vapors. It is constructed by fixing a vapor-absorbing polymer to
the distal tip of an optical fiber. The layer contains an
intimately-mixed dye that changes its fluorescence properties in
response to organic vapors.
Status; Sensors have been prepared and tested in the laboratory.
They respond to organic vapors between 0.1 and 10,000 ppm. A
portable instrument has been constructed and has been tested in
conjunction with the fiber sensors. Field test studies at
contaminated sites in New Hampshire and Massachusetts began during
Fall 1989.
Soil Remediation
Optimization of Biological Soil Remediation: M.S. Finstein and
P.F. Strom, Cook College, Rutgers University
Goal; The goal of this project is to use naturally occurring
populations of microorganisms in the on-site detoxification of
certain industrially contaminated soils. Candidate soils for
biological remediation include those at plants that formerly
produced pipeline gas from coal, but were abandoned or
decommissioned as coal gas was replaced with natural gas.
Approximately 2,000 such sites in North America need soil
remediation.
Rationale: Most hydrocarbon contaminants, such as those found at
coal gas sites, are intrinsically biodegradable under the proper
circumstances. When the contaminants persist, it is because of
some combination of adverse biological factors. For instance,
there may be a lack of inorganic nutrients or of readily
metabolized organic substrate. The contaminants may exist in
watertight clumps which create an unsuitably dry environment.
Other causes may include low temperatures or a lack of compatible
18
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organisms. Improved characterization of operative limitations,
and development of techniques to relieve them, will aid in the
improvement of remediation practices.
Approach: Two approaches are being compared. In the first
approach, only the inorganic nutrient and physical limitations are
relieved. The second approach does these things, plus combines the
contaminated soil with readily metabolized bulk organic material,
such as wastewater sludge or leaves, thus creating a composting
operation, in which the mixture increases in temperature owing to
microbial heat generation. Each approach evokes different
microbial responses and has different process requirements. The
first requires less handling of materials and fewer processing
requirements. It relies on the contaminants themselves to support
microbial processing, but results in a massive build-up of
microbial populations, and encourages in-situ genetic changes,
possibly favoring degradative competence. The information gained
will help delineate the strengths and limitations of each approach,
and their respective practical roles.
status; Each approach was previously investigated separately.
Apparatus have been fabricated for their comparative evaluation.
The comparative study should be completed by January 1991.
Fundamental Studies of Solids Devolatilization for Hazardous Waste
Destruction: J.B. Howard, 6.S. Darivakis, and W.A. Peters,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Goal; The objective of this project is to contribute to the
fundamental understanding of how thermal treatment can destroy
hazardous solids without generating adverse by-products. Specific
aims are to determine what, and how rapidly, products are formed
by thermal decomposition of solids and by further thermal reactions
of chemicals evolved by the decomposing solid.
Rationale: Initial thermal decomposition of solids and subsequent
thermal reactions such as pyrolysis and incomplete oxidation of
ambulatory products of that decomposition, are important processes
in incineration and in advanced thermal technologies for
destruction of solid hazardous wastes such as soils, sludges, and
toxic industrial residues. Such reactions can facilitate easy
burning of the waste or they may result in hazardous by-products
that, if left undestroyed by afterburners or cleanup equipment,
might escape the process as toxic emissions. Better understanding
of these reactions gives guidance on how to design and operate
incinerators, afterburners, and cleanup equipment to achieve
desired waste destruction efficiencies without producing adverse
emissions.
Approach: Yields, compositions, and generation rates of products
from the reactions described above are being determined using small
scale laboratory apparatus that simulates conditions of practical
19
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interest, but does so in such a way that the effects of
temperature, treatment time, heating rate, sample dimension, and
type of solid can be independently studied.
statusi A quantitative study of the rapid thermal decomposition
behavior of polyethylene and polystyrene, studied as prototype
solid wastes was completed in August 1989. Yields and production
rates of two important categories of decomposition products were
determined. Future work will identify and measure plastics
decomposition products, study rapid thermal decomposition of
contaminated soils, and examine thermal reactions of the
decomposition products of solids.
DNA Characteristics of Indigenous Miorobial Communities as
Indicators of Mutagsnio Hazardous Waste Exposure: S.W. Chisolm,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Goal! The ultimate goal of this project is to develop a system for
detecting and identifying mutagenic chemicals in the environment
by analyzing mutations in the indigenous bacteria. The immediate
goal is to determine the naturally occurring DNA sequence
variability which would appear as "background" in the proposed
test.
Rationale; Extensive work with both bacteria and cultured cells
have shown that individual mutagenic chemicals induce specific sets
of mutations, termed "mutational spectra" that can be used to
identify the responsible agents. These prior experiments were
performed with uniform, cultured cells. The current investigations
will test the feasibility of extending the approach to natural
populations of microorganisms.
Approach: The general scheme of the proposed work is as follows:
(1) select a contaminated watershed in the local area, (2) isolate
and identify a bacterial species that is common in the area, (3)
pick a highly conserved region of the genome of this species to use
as the assay region for mutational spectrum analysis, (4) determine
the DNA sequence of this region in the isolate, (5) collect
isolates of the same species from a variety of different
environments (including pristine ones), and determine the natural
variability in the DNA sequence of the gene in question, (6)
subject isolates to various known mutagens in the laboratory, and
determine the mutational spectra they evoke in the DNA sequence of
the gens in question, and (7) go back to a contaminated site to
see if the mutational spectra can be detected in samples collected
in-situ. This work is being done in collaboration with Dr. William
Thilly of MIT's Center for Environmental Health and Sciences.
status: The Aberjona watershed near Boston which includes a highly
contaminated sits in Woburn, has been chosen as the study area.
Several clones of Pseudomonas fluorescens have been isolated from
20
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a lake in the watershed for use as the indicator organism. The
highly conserved genes for 16s ribosomal RNA have been isolated
and sequenced from one of the isolates. Work is progressing on the
culturing and sequencing of additional isolates.
Incineration
The Effects of Chlorocarbons on Flame Intermittency, Stability, and
Efficiency in a Well-Stirred Reactor: R.B. Barat, A.F. Sarofim,
and J.P. Longwell, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Goal; The goal is to acquire a quantitative understanding of the
effect of chlorocarbons on the escape of unburned material from
incinerators.
Rationale s The presence of chlorocarbons in combustion is known
to inhibit ignition in low mixing intensity laboratory flames. The
effect of chlorocarbons on highly turbulent combustion is being
investigated in the laboratory to develop knowledge and techniques
for assessment of the effects in practical systems. The role of
chlorine in flame instability and the subsequent increase in
products of incomplete combustion needs to be better understood to
improve incineration performance.
Approach; The toroidal stirred reactor has been specifically
developed to provide a well-characterized distributed combustor.
Effects of adding chlorocarbons to an ethylene-air mixture are
studied using Rayleigh scattering with a sample time of
6.5 x 10 seconds and a sample volume of 200 x 200 x 20 urn3.
Unburned material leaving the combustor is determined by chemical
analysis of quenched samples leaving the reactor. The effects of
chlorine containing fuels on combustion will be interpreted by use
of a kinetic model and a mixing model for combustion of the fuels
used.
Status; Experimental work is underway and has demonstrated the
effect of methylchloride on flame intermittency and an increase in
unburned material. A chemical kinetic model has been developed
with the assistance of Professor J. Bozzelli (NJIT) and is being
applied to the interpretation of the results.
Thermal Oxidation Studies on Chloromethane and Chlorobenz one-
Detailed Iteohanism of Hydrocarbon Flames Doped with Chlorocarbons:
J.W. Bozzelli, New Jersey Institute of Technology
The objective of this project is to determine how to improve
or provide direction toward optimum operation of incinerators used
in the oxidation (complete destruction) of chlorinated
hydrocarbons. These incineration processes range from refuse
recovery to hazardous waste facilities, and are to be optimized for
minimum effluent and maximum conversion.
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Rational*i Chlorocarbon incineration is a complex process and has
not been studied thoroughly, but it is a process which can
completely destroy chlorinated compounds by converting them into
relatively safe basic chemicals — water, CO2, and chloride salts
(after the HC1 has been scrubbed) . It is much better to completely
destroy waste chemicals than to store them until a future time,
when they will again become a problem. Thus, there is a demand for
safe and effective incineration of hazardous wastes.
Approach: Experiments are being performed in thermal oxidation
reaction systems where the physical properties in the reactors,
such as temperature, turbulence, and time can be described. Once
this is accomplished, the focus shifts to the chemical reactions
that are taking place in order to learn and understand the
important chemical and mixing processes. The MIT group
participates jointly in the project and their aspect is to focus
on actual flame studies and turbulence using the NJIT models for
the chemistry. The models are based upon fundamental
thermochemical principles and Transition State Theory in kinetics.
Status: The project has seen the completion of a full set of
chlorobenzene thermal oxidation experiments and a reaction
mechanism has been developed for this chloroaromatic oxidation.
In addition, a complete mechanism has been developed for flame
oxidation of chloromethane-ethylene mixtures. A radically new
mechanism of chlorine inhibition of flames has resulted from these
studies. Experiments are continuing to further verify the
mechanistic predictions. Some initial predictions have been made
on how to improve effectiveness in Chlorocarbon incineration and
these shall be further refined with new experiments.
Waste Treatment
A Dynamic Model of Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBR): B.C. Baltzis
and G. Lewandowski, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Goal; The goal of this project is to develop for the first time
a dynamic model of a sequencing batch reactor for hazardous waste
treatment. The model will employ biochemical reactor analysis, and
consider both inhibitory substrates and mixed microbial
populations.
Rational*! Generally, empiricism cannot be relied on to optimize
a hazardous waste treatment process without a great deal of
expensively obtained data at a pilot scale or larger. Even with
such data, significant deviations in the waste composition, or the
microbial population used for treatment, can result in a failed
scale-up and a considerable financial loss, unless those factors
are previously accounted for by a reliable predictive methodology.
Furthermore, diagnostic tools are needed when the system does not
perform as promised. A reliable model can also cover otherwise
unsuspected system properties, such as the increased efficiency
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created by drawing down half of the volume in an SBR. For these
reasons, it is important to develop a reliable mathematical model
that can organize and extrapolate bench and pilot scale data.
Considering the importance and complexity of SBRs in hazardous
waste treatment applications, significant economic and operational
advantages can accrue from a successful modeling effort.
Approachi Biodegradation of pollutants in an SBR can be described
by a set of unsteady-state equations, and these equations can then
be solved numerically. The model focuses on reaction kinetics, and
currently does not include a settling phase. Furthermore, it
assumes that the kinetic expressions are the same for the fill,
react, and draw phases. in order to reduce the number of
parameters and generalize the results, the equations are written
in a dimensionless form. The model allows us to predict design
parameters, and optimize the operating conditions, such that the
reactor volume is minimized for a given throughput, and washout of
the biomass is prevented. The model will be verified
experimentally.
Status: Biodegradation of a single compound has been described for
cases where the kinetics follow either a Monod model, which depicts
an uninhibited substrate, or an Andrews model, which is inhibitory.
Problems of optimization have been addressed, and it has been shown
that a minimum reactor effluent concentration is achieved when 50%
(Honod case), or 40 to 50% (Andrews case), of the reactor contents
are drawn down at the end of a cycle. In addition, for inhibitory
substrates, the model predicts that under certain conditions steady
operation of the unit is impossible unless proper start-up
conditions are used. Start-up conditions do not affect operation
if the substrate is non-inhibitory. Finally, the model shows that
the volume of a fill-and-draw reactor is inherently smaller than
that of a continuous flow, well-mixed reactor, for the same
throughput. The model has been experimentally verified with a pure
culture of Pseudomonas putida. with phenol as the sole carbon
source. In all cases, there was excellent agreement between
experimental results and theoretical predictions. Future work will
examine mixed populations and mixed substrates.
Removal and Recovery of Heavy Metal* from Waste Water by Hollow
Fiber Contained Liquid Membrane Techniquei K.K. sirkar, Stevens
Institute of Technology
Qoalt The overall goal of this project is to develop a stable
liquid membrane technique by which toxic heavy metals can be
simultaneously extracted from an industrial waste stream on one
side of the membrane and concentrated in an aqueous solution on the
other side of the membrane for recycle. The immediate goal is to
study removal and recovery of copper using a liquid ion exchanger
containing a membrane placed between two sets of hollow fibers.
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Rationale; Earlier research results using supported liquid
membranes or emulsion liquid membranes suggested that copper
removal and simultaneous concentration can be done. However, these
liquid membranes were very unstable and, hence, unusable. By
containing the liquid membranes between two sets of microporous
hollow fibers in a shell, we have recently obtained a very stable
liquid membrane. Thus, copper removal and recovery in a stable
fashion should be feasible using the hollow fiber contained liquid
membrane technique.
Approach: The approach consists of the following: (1) build a
membrane separation device containing two sets of microporous
hydrophobic hollow fibers, (2) study steady-state removal of copper
from aqueous solution moving through the lumen of one set of fibers
via the liquid membrane and concentrate the copper in the strip
solution moving through the lumen of the other set of fibers, and
(3) demonstrate long tern stability of the process using one-month-
long runs. Such a technique then can be scaled up and efforts made
to transfer it to the marketplace.
Status; A membrane separation device with two sets of hollow
fibers has been built. Transport of copper from an aqueous waste
CuSO4 solution to a strongly acidic H,SO4 solution for recycle has
been demonstrated. Quantitative modeling and experiments with
different liquid membranes to select optimum composition and long
term stability studies are expected to be completed by February
1990.
Training and Technology Transfer
Promotion of Existing Training/Technology Courses—Environmental
Management Institute; A.Cortese, Tufts University
Goal; The goal of the Environmental Management Institute (EMI) is
to provide a curriculum on technology, policy, management, and
health topics, as they relate to environmental issues, to a multi-
disciplinary audience of environmental professionals.
Rationale; Environmental professionals, from government and
industry alike, are playing more important roles in the management
of environmental resources. These management roles require
practical Knowledge and skills available through curriculums based
on state-of-the-art technology and research.
Approach; EMI is a month-long intensive program. There are 10
courses. Each course is held three nights a week, two hours per
night for three-and-a-half weeks. The courses are available on a
for-credit or a non-credit basis. The instructors are chosen from
industry, government, and academia.
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status: This year, 110 participants were enrolled, a 40% increase
in enrollment form 1989. The EMI Advisory Committee has reviewed
1989's evaluations of courses and speakers and has begun planning
for 1990. Brochures listing courses and instructors will be mailed
by February 1, 1990.
Research Laboratory Hazards Management: A. Ducatman, Massachusetts
Institute of Technology
Goal: The goal of this training project is to teach laboratory-
based participants from a variety of backgrounds what they must
know to handle, reduce, and otherwise manage hazardous materials
in their laboratory settings. Government, corporate, and
institutional research laboratory participants will be invited.
The thrust of the seminar will be to integrate laboratory waste
management, a relatively new concern, with traditional laboratory
concerns about health and safety.
Rationale: Both waste disposal and occupational health problems
are different in laboratories than in production facilities.
Typically, quantities of toxic materials are smaller but their uses
are more complex and innovative. Regulations written for
production facilities require significant revision before they can
be applied to research environments.
Approach: Relevant social needs and regulations will be described,
and then put in the framework of how to manage waste safely in the
unpredictable environment of the laboratory. Special emphasis will
be placed upon administrative solutions that create incentives and
avoid disincentives for responsible waste management among research
personnel. The potential hazards of excessive waste handling and
alteration by scientists will be emphasized in order to feature the
simplest solutions.
Status: The seminar is scheduled for January 31, 1990. Contract
agreements for space and audio-visual support are being signed.
A mailing list of potential participants is being assembled.
Looking Within: Organ!cational Factors in Risk communication:
C. Chess, P.M. Sandman, and M. Greenberg, Rutgers University
Goal: The goal of this project is to explore how organizational
factors affect agency risk communication activities. The report
resulting from the project will tentatively identify: (1)
organizational factors that may be blocking effective risk
communication, (2) organizational factors that may facilitate
effective risk communication, and (3) suggestions on how agencies
might reduce barriers and encourage effective risk communication.
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Rational* i Although many agency risk communicators understand what
must be done to communicate risk effectively, doing so often
remains an elusive goal, in part due to organizational barriers
within the agency itself. This project explores the question:
"What do we need to do internally within agencies so we can
communicate effectively externally?"
Approach: Because there has been little research on the subject,
an exploratory symposium is being conducted as a first step. The
symposium will bring together approximately 20 agency personnel
from state and federal levels, with both technical and
communication backgrounds, for a day-long roundtable discussion.
A few specialists in organizational dynamics will also participate.
A brief report, based on an audio tape of the day's discussion,
will summarize the issues identified by participants and their
recommendations for addressing them.
Status; The symposium was held on October 16, 1989. A final
report is due in February 1990.
Emerging Paradigms of Risk and Risk Communication and the Policy
Implications: S. Krimsky, Tufts University
Goal; The goal of this project is to conduct a workshop that will:
(1) assess the state-of-the-art of research schemata, paradigms,
and conceptual frameworks in risk and risk communication studies;
(2) address the contributions and limitations of the various
theoretical approaches; (3) examine the implications of the
research for practitioners; and (4) assess future research
directions.
Rationale; Risk communication can serve as a bridge between risk
assessment and risk management and as a possible means to resolve
conflicts between expert and public opinion. The field of risk
communication has blossomed in recent years, and while many of the
lessons learned have been synthesized into guidelines for risk
communication, risk management remains a complex problem and risk
communication is no panacea. It is, therefore, an opportune time
for academics and practitioners to reflect on the state-of-the-art
and share their thoughts.
Approacht A two-and-a-half-day workshop will be held from January
10 through January 12. The first day of the workshop will involve
30-50 practitioners from the private and public sectors in the New
England region, and will focus on the state-of-the-art in risk
theory and communication and the practical implications. The
following day-and-a-half will involve approximately 20 academics
from Europe and the U.S., and will reflect on and examine the
central tenets of the broad range of theoretical perspectives on
26
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risk. The workshop will encourage dialogue among experts, and
stimulate the production of a set of seminal papers which will be
published in the collected volume. The preparation of these papers
will be funded separately under an assistance agreement from the
EPA (Cooperative Agreement #CR 813481).
atatuai Invitations to academics have been sent out. Invitations
to practitioners will be sent out when the speakers have been
selected and the agenda established.
Conference on Incineration Monitoring: J.R. Ehrenfeld,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Goal: The goal is to inform state and local governments, industry,
environmental groups, and the general public about the requirements
for and capabilities of current hazardous waste incineration
operations monitoring systems.
Rationale; Better monitoring systems for hazardous and municipal
solid waste incinerators have been suggested as a means to enhance
public trust and acceptance of incineration facilities. The
conference is designed to explore the interface between technology
and public decision-making.
Approach: The conference is planned as a one-day event, in which
two critical reviews of operating parameters and effluent
monitoring systems technology, respectively, will be presented.
A third session addressing the policy implications will follow.
A mini-exhibition of equipment vendors will accompany the technical
presentation.
Status: Planning is now underway. The conference is scheduled for
Spring 1990.
National Conference on Regional Issues: R.S. Magee, New Jersey
Institute of Technology
Goal; The objective of this project is to identify and address key
institutional constraints impeding progress toward solving
hazardous waste management problems and to define future actions
required to remove these constraints.
Rationale! The premise is that technology development alone will
be insufficient to make the necessary progress in addressing the
hazardous substance problems facing the nation and that
organizational restrictions and limits must be surmounted or
accommodated before significant inroads can be made.
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Approach: An Engineering Foundation Conference will provide the
framework to achieve the project's goal. The conference will deal
with the political, economic, insurance, financial, and legal
issues surrounding hazardous waste management. The focus will be
on institutional or societal barriers to using existing and
innovative technologies. Contributors will include legislators,
professionals from the insurance and financial industries,
hazardous waste management professionals, state and federal
environmental regulators, environmental groups, and academia.
Topics for sessions will include academia/industry relationships
pertaining to technology development, venture capital investment,
environmental policy limitations and implementation strategies,
technological problems, legal issues, insurance constraints, and
the EPA SITE program initiatives.
Status: The conference is planned for Summer 1990.
SUMMARY OF OUTPUTS IN FY 1989
Refereed Journal Articles Published 2
Articles Submitted or In Press 3
Books and Bound Proceedings 0
Chapters in Books or Proceedings 2
Project Reports 0
Conferences and Workshops Held
TOTAL 8
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Refereed Journal Articles
Graham, W. and D. McLaughlin, "Stochastic Analysis of Non-
Stationary Subsurface Transport 1. Unconditional Moments",
Water Resource Research. 25(2), pp. 215-232, 1989.
Graham, W. and D. McLaughlin, "Stochastic Analysis of Non-
Stationary Subsurface Transport 2. Conditional Moments",
Water Resource Research,. 25(11), 1989.
Articles Submitted or In Press
Barat, R.B., A.F. Sarofim, J.P. Longwell, and J.W. Bozzelli,
"Effects of Chlorocarbons on Flame Intermittency and Stability
in a Jet-Stirred Combustor", presented at "First International
Congress on Toxic Combustion Byproducts: Formation and
Control". UCLA, California, August 2-4, 1989. Submitted for
publication to Combustion Science and Technology.
Darivakis, G.S., J.B. Howard, and W.A. Peters, "Release Rates
of Condensables and Total Volatiles From Rapid
Devolatilization of Polyethylene and Polystyrene", presented
at the "First International Congress on Toxic Combustion
Byproducts; Formation and Control", UCLA, California, August
2-4, 1989. Submitted for Peer Review for publication to
Combustion Science and Technology.
Lewandowski, G.A., P.M. Armanente, and D. Pak, "Reactor Design
for Hazardous Waste Treatment Using A White Rot Fungus", Water
Research, in press.
Chapters in Books and Bound Proceedings
Graham, W. and D. McLaughlin, "A Comparison of Numerical
Solution Techniques For The Stochastic Analysis of Non-
Stationary Transient Subsurface Mass Transport", Proceedings
of the 7th International Conference on Computational Methods
in Water Resources. Computational Mechanics Publisher.
Southampton, UK, 1988.
McLaughlin, D., "A Real-Time Approach to Groundwater
Monitoring, Prediction and Remediation*1, Proceedings of the
ASCE National Conference on Hydraulic Engineering. August 14-
18, 1989, New Orleans, LA, American Society of Civil
Engineers, New York, NY, 1989.
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Project Reports
None
i
conferences and Workshops Held
Basu, R. and K.K. Sirkar, "Selection Separations Using
Contained Liquid Membranes", at the AIHE Symposium:
"Pollution Prevention for the 1990's: A Chemical Engineering
Challenge", Washington, DC, December 4-5, 1989.
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Chapter 2:
The Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic
Hazardous Substance Research Center
-------
cantart The Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic Hazardous
Substance Research Center
participants: Tne University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Howard University
njroetori Walter J. Weber, Jr., Ph.D., P.E.
Department of Civil Engineering
181 Engineering Building 1-A
College of Engineering
The University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2125
Phone: 313/763-1464
FAX: 313/764-4292
THE CENTER AT A GLANCE
The University of Michigan and Michigan state University
combined forces in 1986 to pursue cooperative efforts in
fundamental, multidisciplinary, large-scale hazardous substance
research. Howard University joined the two Michigan universities
in 1988 to develop a proposal to the U.S. Environmental Protection
for designation and funding as one of five new regional hazardous
substance research centers. The proposal was selected and the
three universities were awarded an initial $1 million grant in
February 1989 to establish the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic
Hazardous Substance Research Center for Federal Regions 3 and 5.
An additional $1 million was awarded in October of the same year.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has provided the
matching funds.
center Personnel
The University of Michigan is the lead university in the
Center, with Dr. Walter J. Weber, Jr., of Michigan's Department of
Civil Engineering, the Center Director, having primary
responsibility for its overall research focus and program
implementation. Dr. Thomas C. Voice of the Department of Civil and
Environmental Engineering at Michigan State University, the
Associate Director, coordinates the research at Michigan State
University and has principal responsibility for overseeing the
training and technology transfer programs. Dr. James H. Johnson,
Jr., of the Department of Civil Engineering at Howard University,
the Assistant Director, has primary responsibility for coordinating
the research and training activities of that Region 3 institution
with the two Region 5 institutions in Michigan. The Center brings
together a resource of more than 100 faculty and staff with
expertise in hazardous substances and environmental engineering and
sciences.
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Table 1: Kay Personnel in the Center
university of Michigan Michigan state university
W.J. Weber T.c. Voice
L.M. Abriola S.A. Boyd
J.J. Kukor R.F. Rickey
R.H. Olsen J.M. Tiedje
T.M. Vogel K. Vigmostad
M.C. Berger R. Wallace
P.P. Novak
M.S. Simmons
Howard University
J.H. Johnson
J.N. Cannon
R.C. Chawla
M.M. Varma
The Center administration interacts closely with two standing
advisory groups, the Science Advisory Committee (SAC) and the
Training and Technology Transfer Advisory Committee (TrAC).
Science and engineering representatives from academic institutions,
industry, and state and federal agencies comprise the 14-member
SAC. This committee critically reviews the ongoing research
programs of the Center, recommends and evaluates new research
directions and proposals, and provides general scientific advice
and guidance to the Center. The SAC met in May and again in
October 1989. The committee as a whole considered presentations
from all the investigators at each meeting. At their first
meeting, the SAC established three-member Project Oversight Teams
for each project to facilitate hands-on participation by SAC
members in activities related to their particular interests and
expertise. The Center administration engages the SAC in
discussions of new areas of research and in identifying those areas
that address the needs of the two regions. This process was
initiated at the last SAC meeting in October by drafting a new
"request for proposals'* outlining areas identified by SAC members
as needing research.
The T3AC is a 7-member committee composed of representatives
of state, federal, and independent training and technology experts.
This committee works with the Center administration to structure
programs that can effectively use the technical and educational
resources of the Center to translate research results into
practical application.
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ffiaaion and Orientation
The Center's mission is to provide the philosophical
framework, organizational structure, and resources required to
foster and support integrated, multidisciplinary, and collaborative
research that advances the science and technology of hazardous
substance management. The Center promotes integrated university-
based research programs focused on common objectives, and fosters
joint participation by researchers from different disciplines to
ensure a rich resource of approaches and perspectives.
Collaboration and interaction with industry, government, other
academic institutions, and the general public are key elements of
the Center's comprehensive program of research, education, and
technology transfer.
The Center primarily serves the constituency of Federal
Regions 3 and 5; that is Delaware, the District of Columbia,
Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio,
Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The heavy
industrialization which characterizes these regions is reflected
by the fact that about 33 percent of the Nation's regulated
hazardous waste generators and 36 percent of the Superfund sites
are located here. The most critical hazardous substance issues in
these regions involve synthetic organic chemicals and petroleum
products. More than 70 percent of all hazardous wastes and most
known groundwater contamination problems involve organic compounds
such as chlorinated solvents, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
pesticides, and petroleum products. Nearly 10,000 cases of leaking
underground storage tanks have been identified in these two
regions. The vast majority of these involve petroleum products.
Accordingly, Center research emphasizes problems associated with
contamination by organic chemicals and addresses such problems by
attempting to develop and refine remediation technologies that are
effective, environmentally compatible, and that conserve energy and
other resources.
Funding Sources
Initial funding for the Center has been provided by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency and the Michigan Department of
Natural Resources as shown below in Table 2:
Table 2: Center Funding
FUNDING SOURCES PY 1989 FUNDS
Michigan DNR $ 500,000
U.S. EPA 2.000.000
TOTAL $2,500,000
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CENTER DIRECTOR'S REPORT
The research program of the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic
Hazardous Substance Research Center seeks to develop useable and
cost effective control and remediation techniques which are readily
adaptable to different site-specific conditions. As noted above,
the most serious and extensive hazardous substance problems in
Regions 3 and 5 relate to environmental contamination by organic
substances. Therefore, projects funded by the Center currently
focus on schemes to remediate organic pollutants by integrating
bioremediation technologies with complementary chemical and
physicochemical technologies in ways that maximize effectiveness
and minimize environmental disruption and discord.
Strengths of the Center
The Center's research program derives its character and
strength from a unique combination of two principal features of the
Center. The first is the substantial and diverse expertise
residing within the three institutions. The second is the
structuring of groups of researchers from different disciplines
with expertise in related topical areas to work on complementary
or interactive projects.
Center personnel interact with the SAC and Center faculty to
identify and characterize major problems. This is a dynamic and
ongoing process. Once a particular problem is characterized,
resources from different disciplines — such as fundamental
microbiology, process engineering, and system modeling — are
brought together to develop a set of techniques to address the
problem. The Center uses flexible research groups to bring its
considerable expertise to bear most effectively on multifaceted
hazardous waste management problems. These groups can be formed
and restructured as new research problems emerge and others mature.
In this context, the Environmental Protection Agency's Centers
Program funding structure enables the Center to do what individual
project grants would not.
Projects are deliberately designed to establish research
groups and to foster multidisciplinary approaches. For example,
the Center has drawn together research from microbiology (Olsen and
Kukor, Michigan), soil sciences (Tiedje, Michigan State), and
environmental engineering (Vogel, Michigan) who work interactively
to elucidate fundamental mechanisms and identify appropriate
conditions for microbial detoxification and/or destruction of
hazardous organic compounds.
By way of further example, the effectiveness of employing
surface active agents ~ surfactants — for in-sJJtu flushing of
residual organic fluids from soils is being investigated from the
three different perspectives of enhancing bioavaliability (Chawla
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and Cannon, Howard), phenoaenological characterization of flow
behavior (Wallace, Michigan State) and basic modeling of flow
characteristics to permit field predictions of contaminant movement
(Abriola, Michigan). These combined efforts facilitate a
comprehensive understanding of the dimensions of the problem and
of the requirements of research to develop appropriate technologies
to address it. The concept of investigator/research-focus
groupings allows the Center to be comprehensive in its research
approach and flexible and responsive to the needs of those
eventually using the research information.
It is the intent of the Center management to further
strengthen and refine the use of this concept, to foster an even
greater and more structured collaboration among researchers, and
to promote linkages among groupings. New ways to promote the
diversity of scientific interactions and affiliations and to forge
multidisciplinary research will be explored. For example, the
Center is planning a series of half-day satellite meetings that
include all senior faculty researchers and associated research
personnel within a specific grouping. This approach will be tested
before the end of this program year in a pilot project involving
the surfactant group cited above and a small group of other current
and potential investigators having related interests and expertise.
Research Emphasis
There are currently thirteen projects in the Center which
address this research focus. Details of the specific projects are
provided later in this report. However, these projects may be
grouped into three loosely defined topical categories.
1) Microbial degradation phenomena; Four projects emphasize
research directed at improving our understanding of specific
organisms that have demonstrated the ability to degrade certain
classes of organic chemicals, of the reaction pathways involved in
degradation, of the interactions among organisms, of the
relationships between organisms and their environment, and of
methods for selecting or producing organisms with enhanced
degradation abilities. Typically, these projects emphasize
microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular genetics.
2\ Pollutant properties affecting degradation; Three projects
are currently investigating how the physical and chemical
properties and the physical environments of waste chemicals affect
the ability of organisms to accomplish degradation. These efforts
also extend to methods for improving the degradability of target
compounds. Current and future projects in this area emphasize
environmental chemistry, physics, and engineering.
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3) Engineered systems; Six projects target the development
of engineered systems designed to carry out degradation of
hazardous organic chemicals. These approaches include in situ
treatment of environmental contamination, engineered reactors for
treatment of hazardous industrial wastes either on-site or at the
site of production, and process integrations whereby non-biological
and biological processes are integrated into treatment schemes with
improved performance.
Added Benefits
The Center's multidisciplinary approach and successful early
efforts have attracted the interest of industrial and regulatory
groups confronted by waste management problems that cannot be
satisfactorily addressed by current technologies. In response, the
Center is expanding its role as a catalyst for establishing related
research activities. The Center's approach of flexibly grouping
appropriate expertise serves to leverage ongoing research. This,
in turn, facilitates pursuit of related projects funded by
different organizations, both public and private.
Examples of new initiatives involving Center research faculty
and staff include a $1.25 million field remediation research
program supported jointly by the Michigan Oil and Gas Association
and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, a four-year $6.8
million-hazardous substance basic research program funded by the
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and a $250,000
grant from Dow Chemical Company to initiate a hazardous substance
post-doctoral research program. New opportunities and initiatives
are, in so far as compatible with the interests of the related
research, used to draw new faculty and research capabilities into
the Center's research activities.
Most recently, Center administration and faculty are involved
in discussions with the EPA's Office of Underground Storage Tanks
(OUST) and Sun Oil to establish multi-investigator research
programs targeted to. the particular needs of these organizations.
OUST's interests involve improved methods for assessment and
remediation activities associated with leaking underground storage
tanks. Sun Oil is interested in research on methods for cleaning
up soils contaminated with crude oil. In both cases, a group of
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cross-university faculty is developing an approach which involves
investigators from different disciplines working together on a
common problem, and in some instances involving a common set of
experiments. This approach is modeled after the Centers Program.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 1989
reh Proi acts
The Center directly funds fifteen researchers from six
departments in the three universities. In addition to the direct
interactions resulting from this participation, a large number of
secondary interactions have resulted from the linkages the primary
Center researchers have to other research projects and programs.
The "extended family" of researchers is estimated to include more
than 100 faculty and staff at the three universities.
Out of this group of faculty and their collective research
programs, a number of intensive research efforts involving multiple
projects from different funding sources have evolved. These
intensive efforts permit the simultaneous attack on a problem from
several angles. The exchange of ideas among colleagues, all
addressing similar problems with different backgrounds and skills,
provides a rich intellectual environment for research.
A brief description of some of the key research interactions
that have been catalyzed and coordinated by the Center is provided
below. In all cases, the Center provides some, but not all, of the
funding support for the activities. It should be noted that the
areas are not necessarily parallel. Different ways of defining the
themes would result in different groupings.
o Reductive dechlorination — Drs. Tiedje, Vogel, and Boyd are
working on various aspects of the detoxification of certain
classes of compounds by reductive dechlorination, that is,
removal of toxic chlorine from these compounds. Different
classes of compounds — including PCBs, chlorinated aliphatic
solvents, chlorophenols, and chlorobenzoate — are being
investigated using both specifically isolated groups of
organisms and naturally evolving microbial consortia. These
efforts are addressing biochemical mechanisms and
environmental influences .
o Volatile organic compound (VOC) degradation — Drs. Tiedje,
Vogel, Boyd, Olsen, Kukor, Hickey, Weber, and Voice are
investigating the complete degradation of two classes of VOCs:
chlorinated solvents and petroleum-derived contaminants. This
work covers a full spectrum of scientific pursuits ranging
from basic microbiology, molecular genetics, and biochemistry
to the engineering studies necessary to develop treatment
systems. These efforts are becoming increasingly intertwined,
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in a productive sense, as investigators share seed organisms,
reactors, and experimental methods to further the overall
understanding of VOC degradation.
o Development of unique organisms — Drs. Tiedje, Kukor, Olsen,
and Vogel are actively involved in developing or isolating
organisms with unique biodegradation abilities using
approaches ranging from sampling contaminated environments to
genetic engineering. This group benefits greatly from the
exchange of ideas on experimental approaches. They frequently
exchange microbial cultures with each other and with other
investigators to enhance overall mutual efforts.
o Bioreaetors — Drs. Hickey, Vogel, Weber, Voice, Johnson, and
Varma are studying the relationships between reactors,
organisms, and degradation activity. Considerable benefit has
been derived from the exchange of approaches and experimental
designs. These investigators also contribute their expertise
to other investigators who need to use reactors but are not
expert in reactor engineering.
o On-sit« remediation of contaminated groundvater — Virtually
all of the Center faculty are involved in some aspect of on-
site bioremediation of groundwater. These efforts include
biostimulation, introduction of organisms with unique
degradation abilities, combined above-ground and in-situ
approaches, surfactant mobilization, and forced-air venting.
Approaches include laboratory process studies, improved
analytical methods development, physical and mathematical
modeling, and field studies. This effort has been highly
successful in bringing faculty with diverse backgrounds and
interests together to attack a problem that involves
interfaces between traditional disciplines.
Training and Technology Transfer Projects
Karen E. Vigmostad came on board in June 1989 to manage the
Center's training and technology transfer program. Ms. Vigmostad
completed a Master of Science degree in Resource Policy, Economics,
and Management at the University of Michigan. She did policy and
communication* work for the Michigan Department of Natural
Resources b«fore joining the Center. She is working closely with
Dr. Voice at Michigan State University, to create a comprehensive
publication* package to communicate Center progress and research
results. They are also developing a network of key hazardous
substance people in the two regions, and facilitating additional
multidisciplinary research opportunities for faculty members.
The Centers Program structure enables training and technology
transfer CT) staff to develop close, cooperative working
relationships with individual researchers. Tr staff and
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researchers are meeting on a one-to-one basis to allow full
explanations of current research and to help identify people and
organizations that would be interested in particular research
findings and applications. For example, Ms. Vigmostad arranged for
the collection of PCB-contaminated sediments by Michigan Department
of Natural Resources personnel for Drs. Tiedje and Boyd, and
performed a preliminary market analysis for a cyanide-destroying
enzyme for Dr. Hickey.
Research faculty are also participating actively in the T3
effort. Dr. James Johnson of Howard University held a one-week
hazardous substance training program for high school teachers in
the Washington, DC school system in August 1989. Over 20 science
and math teachers from schools around the city spent the week
learning about hazardous waste and other environmental issues.
They also received pointers on how to guide interested students
into environmental careers. Nine Howard University faculty members
and representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency and
the Chesapeake Bay Foundation gave lectures. Issues of particular
interest were Health and Risk Assessment, Challenges for Blacks and
Women in Science and Engineering, Career Opportunities in
Environmental Engineering and Science, and Programs for Student
Involvement at the Environmental Protection Agency. A follow-up
meeting with Howard University faculty and workshop participants
will be held in 1990, and plans are being made to hold this
workshop in other states.
Projects in the works include hosting a five-Center national
symposium in 1991, publishing a Center brochure and newsletter,
assisting states in the two regions to develop and enhance
industrial assistance programs, and developing a waste auditing
program for the electroplating industry. The five-center national
symposium will be an invitational one-week retreat for
approximately 100 leading scientists with expertise in on-site
remediation. Papers and discussions will be published in a
proceedings.
SUMMARY O7 ONGOING PROJECTS
Investigators Pro^ct Title
Microbie.1 Degradation Phenomena
Tiedje Isolating Organisms which Dechlorinate
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Vogel Investigation of Mechanisms Controlling Rates
of Dechlorination of Halogenated Organic
Solvents by Methanogens
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01sen/
Kuror
Vogel
Boyd
Abriola
Wallace
Mickey
Johnson/
Varma
Chawla/
Cannon
Voice
Weber
Simmons
Vigmostad
Vigmostad
Vigmostad
Johnson
Nowak
Engineered Organisms: Development of Microbial
Strains with Enhanced Potential for Degradation
of Volatile Organic Carbon Compounds (VOCs)
Factors Affecting Attachment and Release of
Microorganisms to Aquifer Soils
Pollutant Properties Affecting Degradation
Bioavailability of Aged Residues in
Contaminated Soils
Modeling Surfactant Mobilization of Entrapped
Organic Liquids in Groundwater Systems
Modeling Biodegradation in the Presence of
Field Complexities
Engineered Systems
Development of Hazardous Waste Treatment
Schemes Using Modular Laboratory-Scale Reactors
Detoxification of Hazardous and Substances via
In-Vessel Composting
Use of Microorganisms and Surfactants for In
Situ Detoxification of Hazardous Wastes in
Soils
Design and Operation of Biological Activated
Carbon Adsorption Systems
Destruction of Biologically Resistant Organics
by Supercritical Water Oxidation
Methods of Isolation of Hazardous Substances
from Complex Mixtures
Training and Technology Transfer
Development of State Industrial Assistance
Programs
Newsletter
Five-center Research Symposium
Materials and Hazardous Waste Workshop
Waste Minimization Information and Training
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PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Microbial Degradation Phenomena
Isolating Organisms which Dechlorinate Polyohlorinated Biphenyls
(PCBs): J.M. Tiedje, Michigan State University
Goal: The goal is to isolate a culture of organisms which occur
in PCB-contaminated river sediments and which have demonstrated the
capacity to dechlorinate PCBs, thus making them less harmful.
These organisms may prove to be reliable and inexpensive tools to
detoxify PCBs and possibly other chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Rationale: Earlier research results suggest that some natural
selection for dechlorination occurs and that further selection and
stimulation in the laboratory is feasible. If commercialization
is possible, the technique would detoxify PCBs and could
potentially be developed for use in detoxifying other chlorinated
hydrocarbons.
Approach; Three approaches will be used. First, dechlorinating
organisms will be enriched by incubating them in anaerobic
conditions. By so doing, the dechlorinating reaction becomes the
only electron acceptor and may perhaps serve as an energy source.
This rate of enrichment could be slow, but it is the best means yet
known to enrich dechlorinators selectively over other indigenous
microorganisms. Second, information learned from microorganisms
which dechlorinate other compounds will be used as a clue to
recognize unique features that may also occur in PCB
dechlorinators. Such features are the unique 16SrRNA sequences,
and the presence of CO dehydrogenase. Third, simplified fractions
of communities or isolates will be inoculated into sediment
communities that don't dechlorinate. The logic is that consortium
is needed and this is a way to recognize this missing but unique
member.
Status; Work on approaches one and three are underway. Some
positive results have been seen on the ability to enrich the
dechlorinating ability on one of the heavily chlorinated commercial
PCB mixtures (Aroclor 1254).
Investigation of Mechanisms controlling Rates of Dechlorination of
Halogonated Organic Solvents by Methanogens: T.M. Vogel, The
University of Michigan
Goal: The goal is to determine which microbes are most active in
dechlorination of chlorinated solvents, to establish the
physiological conditions which give the highest rates of
dechlorination, and to elucidate the mechansim of dechlorination.
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Rational*! Dechlorination of chlorinated organics generally
reduces the health hazard they present. Microbial dechlorination
shows great promise as a safe, economical technique for cleaning
some hazardous waste sites. Previous research illustrates the
ability of some anaerobic microbes to dechlorinate hazardous waste
compounds, particularly those more highly chlorinated. In many
cases, special adapted microbes might not be involved in the
dechlorination. If this is accurate, then naturally-occurring
microbes might be induced to dechlorinate some hazardous compounds.
development of techniques that enhance this process could
potentially be valuable in clean-up activities.
Approach; The microbial dechlorination process is being
investigated at the subcellular level and at the organism level.
In the first approach, biochemical studies are underway to
determine the role of various electron carriers and their
prosthetic groups in reductive dechlorination. The kinetics of
dechlorination and the specificity for metal ions are being
examined. Most of these metal-organic complexes occur in nature
for other reasons than for dechlorination. Examination of the
participation of these complexes will also involve microbial
systems. In the second approach, isolates known to dechlorinate
certain compounds are being tested to further characterize the
physiological mechanisms of dechlorination and the range of
chlorinated substrates. In addition, different trophic groups
enriched from anaerobic habitats will be tested for dechlorinating
activity under normal and hyper-reducing conditions. Microbes will
be isolated from the most active enrichments and tested in pure
culture for their ability to dechlorinate highly chlorinated
organics.
Status; Initial studies involving metal-organic complexes have
begun and have shown some success in dechlorination of chlorinated
aliphatic compounds. Mixed culture systems are also currently
being studied and isolations from the active dechlorinating
cultures are started.
Engineered organismss Development of Microbial strains with
Enhanced Potential for Degradation of Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs): R.H. Olsen and J.J. Kukor, The University of Michigan
Goal; This project has five goals: (1) to isolate and
characterize microbial strains which are able to degrade volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) which adhere to soil and/or granular
carbon particles, (2) to determine the effect of adhesion on the
metabolism of VOCs, (3) to determine the effect of environmental
fluctuations on the performance of selected strains, (4) to use
genetic technology to extend the substrate range (depth) of
selected bacterial strains, and (5) to use generic and modified
bioreactors to evaluate the performance of selected bacterial
strains.
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Rational*; Prior research suggests that noxious contaminants in
soils from gasoline spills can be degraded under anoxic conditions
(when only small amounts of air is present) in the presence of
nutrients associated with the mechanisms by which the microbial
cell obtains energy and carbon for growth and reproduction.
Analogously, when contaminated groundwater associated with such
spills is pumped to carbon filtration units above ground for
treatment, these noxious contaminants are removed beyond the
granular carbon's capacity to absorb them. It has been postulated
that the disappearance of these contaminants may be explained by
indigenous microbial species using the contaminants as food. These
microbes could be transported to the carbon filtration units where
they grow and multiply using the contaminants as food. If the
degradation activities by such microorganisms can be optimized —
by designing appropriate bioreactors or by adding nutrients to the
spill in-situ — then contaminants could be removed at a faster
rate and limit further contamination at the spill site. This has
the potential for more economical on-site remediation and
eliminates the need to remove the soil and transport it to a
landfill.
Approachi Microorganisms are being isolated from carbon filtration
units and sandy soil samples from gasoline-contaminated sites.
These microorganisms are being screened for their ability to
degrade gasoline components — benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and
xylene — in the presence of air, as well as under anoxic
conditions. From a group of many microbial strains with different
physiological characteristics, a few strains which show superior
ability to degrade will be selected for more intensive genetic and
biochemical characterization. After this, work will be started to
manipulate the genetic properties of such strains to enhance their
degradative activities towards the target chemicals.
Status: Work progresses on the isolation of superior microbial
strains. Genetic and physiological characterization of such
strains is underway.
Factors Affecting Attachment/Release interactions of Microorganisms
with Aquifer Solids: T.M. Vogel, The University of Michigan
Goaj.; The 9oal of this project is to understand and describe the
fate of microorganisms that move through the environment by
examining the attachment and detachment phenomena under various
nutrient and fluid-flow conditions.
Rationale! Microbes are increasingly being used for degradation
of hazardous wastes, but the application of such techniques is
hampered by poor understanding of factors related to microbial
attachment. For the potential detoxification of groundwater
contaminants in-situ. it is important to determine factors
influencing the movement of native or introduced microbes,
excessive attachment may be unfavorable as the microbes might not
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move into the region where the contaminant resides. Information
acquired in these studies will also be useful in understanding and
manipulating microbial attachment in bioreactors. In this
application, enhanced attachment is desirable to retain a large
amount of active biomass, thereby increasing rates of waste
degradation. Bioreactors can be used on site for the clean up of
hazardous wastes.
Approach: The ability of microorganisms to attach to and detach
from surfaces is dependent on the microbe, the surface, and
environmental conditions, such as pH, nutrient concentrations, and
the presence of other microbes. The approach used here is to
separate as many of the phenomena as is experimentally possible.
First, the attachment of a pure culture fPseudomonas sp.l on
different surfaces is examined to study the effect of the surface
quality. Charged hydrophilic and hydrophobia surfaces are used in
these experiments. Then the propensity of microbes from natural
soil populations to attach to one specific surface is being
examined under various nutrient regimes. Samples from soil are
grown on glass slides and then stained and quantified for
morphological type and number. Also, the influence of shear forces
on the detachment of microbes is being examined by growing a
biofilm in a porous media and subjecting the biofilm to sudden
changes in shear stress. Biomass that exits the system is then
measured.
Statusi Experimental work is underway. Pure culture attachment
studies illustrated the favored attachment onto charged surfaces
over those that were hydrophobic. Other initial results indicate
that morphological groups differ considerably in their ability to
attach to glass slides under different nutrient conditions.
Pollutant Properties Affecting Degradation
Bioavailability of Aged Residues in Contaminated Soils: S.A. Boyd,
Michigan State University
Goal; The goal is to determine the influence of sorption and
desorption processes on the bioavailability and biodegradability
of soil- and sediment-bound organic contaminants.
Rationale! The working hypothesis is that sorbed (soil-bound)
contaminants are unavailable to microbial degraders, that
desorption of contaminants into the soil solution phase is a
prerequisite for biodegradation, and that the rates of desorption
may be sufficiently slow, especially for aged residues, to limit
the overall rate of biodegradation. Understanding the
bioavailability of contaminants under sorbed and desorbed
conditions is essential in determining the appropriateness and
limitations of bioremediation strategies.
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Approach: Two approaches will be taken to evaluate the
bioavailability of organic residues in historically contaminated
soils and sediments. The first is to measure the rate of release
of soil-bound residues into the soil water, and to compare these
to those for freshly added chemicals. It is probable that over
time contaminants occupy more remote sites in the soil matrix and
become increasingly unavailable. Thus, the aged residues may
exhibit much slower desorption rates than the fresh residues.
These experiments will be complimented by measurements of
contaminated concentrations in the soil-solution phase of
contaminated field soils. The second type of experiment will
compare the rates of biodegradation of aged contaminants to the
rates observed immediately after adding the same contaminants to
soil, when they are presumable more available. These studies will
establish whether limited bioavailability is a major aspect of
contaminant behavior in soils that needs to be considered in the
implementation of bioremediation strategies.
statusi Several field soils with a history of contamination have
been identified as possible study soils. Initial experiments have
been performed with an agricultural soil that has received simazine
(an organic pesticide) additions annually for over 20 years.
Sorption/desorption experiments have been conducted on field soils
contaminated with pentachlorophenol and polychlorinated biphenyls.
Modeling Surfactant Mobilization of Entrapped Organic Liquids in
Oroundwater Systems: L.M. Abriola, The University of Michigan
Goal: The intent of this project is to develop a mathematical
model describing the process of surfactant mobilization and
solubilization of non-aqueous phase organic liquids (NAPLs)
entrapped within a groundwater system. As a first step, the model
will be implemented in a one-dimensional computer simulator capable
of analyzing the relative importance of all process variables.
Rationale: Surfactant flushing of contaminated soils holds much
promise for site remediation and solubilization of NAPLs entrapped
in soils. This process has been proposed to reduce residual
saturation of entrapped organic liquids by increasing their
availability for biodegradation by microorganisms. This model will
be a useful tool to develop surfactant selection criteria for field
applications. It could also be used to explore the hydraulic
parameters affecting the mobilization process, and to predict the
success of mobilization for a given system of chemical and
surfactant.
Earlier petroleum industry research efforts have been
successful in modeling the process of enhanced oil recovery using
surfactants. Thus, a basic rationale for this project is that with
some adaptation the enhanced oil recovery modeling can be used to
simulate the process of cleaning up contaminated groundwater
systems.
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Approach! Two distinct but simultaneously occurring mechanisms to
remove entrapped organic liquids will be considered: (l)
mobilization of organic liquid by immiscible displacement due to
reduction of surface tension, and (2) solubilization of the
entrapped organic liquid resulting in miscible displacement of the
surfactant/water/organic system. The relative importance of these
two removal mechanisms will depend on the type and quantity of the
surfactant used, and on the resulting equilibrium phase
relationship.
The physical model can be described as follows. A
contaminated zone is initially assumed to exist in a saturated
region of the aquifer. Then a surfactant solution is flushed
through the system. As the surfactant solution (an aqueous phase)
reaches the contaminated zone, the entrapped organic blobs are
simultaneously mobilized and solubilized. One or two flowing
phases (the aqueous and oleic phases) will then develop depending
on the type of surfactant used and on the equilibrium phase
relationship between the surfactant, water, and organic. A
compositional mathematical model will be developed to simulate the
recovery of the entrapped organic liquids as a function of several
process variables. Functional forms of the parameters used in the
model will be obtained from a literature review of previous
experiments and from collaboration with other Center investigators
at Michigan State University.
Status: The literature review and mathematical model development
are complete. Implementation of the one-dimensional mathematical
model in a computer program is underway. Model construction,
mathematical verification, and sensitivity analysis is expected to
extend over the next year of the project.
Modeling Biodegradation in the Presence of Field Complexities:
R.B. Wallace, Michigan State University
Goal; The goal is to develop a physical laboratory model with
which to study the mobilization of residual organic non-aqueous
phase liquids (NAPLs) when adding surfactants and the subsequent
biodegradation of the organics in the subsurface area near the
water table.
Rationale: Earlier research has demonstrated the value of studying
the transport of contaminants in the field as well as with small
one-dimensional laboratory models. The expense and difficulty of
obtaining permission to create spills suitable for study have
hampered field experiments, and one-dimensional models oversimplify
hydrogeologic environments. Using large physical models to study
the process of contaminated spills remediation with surfactants
offers a manageable alternative to field experiments. It also
permits a realistic representation of the hydrogeologic
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environments than do one-dimensional models. Developing large
model experiments focused on remediation of benzene, toluene, and
xylene (BTX) contamination near the water table targets study of
a zone that often contains large quantities of trapped petroleum
products, such as these components of gasoline. Establishing a
sufficiently complex flow situation will allow the assessment of
the significance of preferential flow paths and other hydrologic
complexities. Data from a well-documented experiment will be
useful in evaluating how well mathematical models can predict which
conditions are most like those encountered in the field.
Approachi A model aquifer was built as a two meter by one meter
by 15 centimeter tank made of glass, stainless steel, and teflon.
The objective is to learn how to run and measure conditions during
a remediation experiment in the model aquifer. The preliminary
experimental scenario is as follows: (1) create the model aquifer
with known structural complexity (heterogeneity) representative of
the field, (2) produce a well-documented spill, (3) subject the
aquifer and contaminant to well-characterized hydrologic conditions
(vertical water flux, one or more water table oscillations), (4)
remove easily mobilized NAPL with a primary recovery method that
depends on NAPL flow to a recovery well, (5) apply a surfactant to
mobilize residuals, (6) measure total BTX efflux from the model
over time, and (7) measure microbial and BTX distribution within
the aquifer prior to introducing the surfactant and at the end of
the experiment. Initially, experiments will be conducted in
smaller models to replicate studies reported by the Texas Research
Institute. These tests will be used to develop test protocols,
including measurement methods and sampling procedures.
Status: The large tank has been designed and experiments in small
tanks are underway.
Engineered Systems
Development of Hazardous Wast* Treatment Schemes Using Modular
Laboratory-Seal* Reactors: R.F. Mickey, Michigan State University
and Michigan Biotechnology Institute
Goalt This project has two goals: (1) to develop a set of
versatile modular reactors that can be used to evaluate and compare
the capabilities of isolated organisms and consortia to perform the
desired biodegradation reactions in engineered reactors, and (2)
to monitor these reactors intensively to develop a database to
assist in development of improved process monitoring and control
strategies.
Rationale: There are four principal elements in the development
of effective, reliable biotechnology for treating hazardous wastes.
These are: (1) isolating organisms with the desired capabilities,
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(2) improving understanding and optimization of the enzymatic
processes, (3) "housing" the organisms in reactor systems that best
exploit the capabilities of the organisms, and (4) developing
process monitoring and control strategies that assure reliable
performance and help overcome any user confidence hurdles that may
impede application of bio-processes.
Approacht Sets of one- and two-inch diameter reactors of varying
heights were constructed. Because of the versatility of these
reactors most process configurations such as suspended growth
reactors, biological fluidized beds, sequencing batch reactors,
etc., can be comparatively evaluated for "housing" isolates and
consortia of organisms that display desired biodegradative
capabilities. The reactors are designed to allow easy measurement
of gas, liquid, and solid phases to permit quantification of the
fate of the toxic materials (biodegradation, volatilization, and
partitioning to the solid phase). The gaseous headspace is
designed to enable continuous monitoring for both major and trace
gases via an online computer-controlled data acquisition system
available at Michigan Biotechnology Institute. These reactors will
be monitored at steady state and under dynamic conditions to allow
system response to be identified, and improved process monitoring
and control strategies to be developed.
Status; Design and construction of the modular reactors is
complete and initial testing is getting underway.
Detoxification of Hazardous Substances Via In-Vessel Composting:
J.H. Johnson, Jr., and M.M. Varma, Howard University
Goal; The goal is to quantify and determine optimum conditions for
the detoxification of wastewater sludges and soils containing trace
amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) via in-vessel
composting.
Rationale; Single contaminant pure and mixed culture studies have
indicated that the microbial biodegradation of PAHs with up to five
rings is possible. An evaluation of the biodegradation of PAHs in
mixed cultures in the presence of other substrates has not been
conducted and is necessary for the development of workable
bioremediation strategies for soils and sludges.
Approach! Two approaches are being investigated to determine the
optimum conditions for biodegradation of multicontaminant systems
containing two or more PAHs. First, 36 batch-type reactors were
used. Some of the reactors served as controls to determine the
stability of PAHs studied under experimental conditions. The
reactors were placed in a water bath and the temperature of the
bath was increased 5 degrees Celsius per day up to 60 degrees
celsius. Samples were withdrawn every other day up to the 21st
day, when the experiment was ended.
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The second approach uses a laboratory-scale continuous
composter. The composting mass will be contaminated using 14
Carbon-labeled PAHs. The compost mass will be monitored for
quality of effluent gas, pH, temperature, porosity, and moisture
content.
status: Three batch-type reactor experiments have been conducted
using pyrene and anthracene as contaminants. Reductions of 59 and
46 percent were achieved for pyrene and anthracene, respectively,
after 21 days. In the next 12-month period, additional binary
component studies as well as single component studies will be
conducted using the previously described batch procedure. In
addition, experiments will be conducted with a continuous
laboratory-scale composter contaminated with 14 Carbon-labeled
PAHs.
Use of Microorganisms and Surfactants for In-situ Detoxification
of Hazardous Wastes in Soils: R.C. Chawla and J.N. Cannon, Howard
University
Goal; The goal of this project is to develop a process using
surfactants and microorganisms for jjj-situ cleanup of soils
contaminated with hazardous wastes.
Rationale: Properly formulated surfactants under controlled
laboratory conditions have been shown to be effective in
solubilizing organic contaminants bound to soils. Additionally,
selected cultures of microorganisms can detoxify hazardous
compounds in the liquid phase. Surfactant washing alone is only
a dissolution process, while biodegradation works better when the
contaminants are in the liquid phase and not bound to soil.
Therefore, a combination of these processes — when applied in a
single step or sequentially — could provide an in-situ technique
with the advantages of both.
Approach: A series of batch and column studies with a selected
hazardous material, such as trichloroethylene (TCE), will be
designed and carried out. The studies will determine: (1) the
adsorption/desorption rates and limits in TCE/soil/surfactant
systems, (2) the biodegradation limits and rates using selected
cultures of microorganisms that have been acclimated to TCE, (3)
the biod«gradation rates and limits in surfactant/microorganism
systems for both single (combined) and sequential applications, (4)
the optimum contacting schemes and operating parameters to enhance
biodegradation, and (5) the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters
for development of general design and site application criteria.
Status: Adsorption/desorption studies are underway. Experiments
are being designed for biodegradation studies and are expected to
be underway by January 1990. Preliminary assessments of optimum
schemes and parameters will be based on the results of the
biodegradation studies.
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Design and Operation of Biological Activated carbon Adsorption
Systems: T.C. Voice, Michigan State University
Goal: The goal is to demonstrate that biological activated carbon
(BAG) adsorption systems are superior to systems using either
adsorption or biodegradation alone for the treatment of certain
hazardous and industrial wastes. Within this framework, research
will focus on demonstrating the advantages of such systems,
identifying the mechanisms and the interactions among mechanisms
which are responsible for performance advantages, and relating the
results to design and operational practices.
Rationale: Activated carbon systems are very effective for
removing a wide range of organic chemical contaminants from aqueous
wastes. The removed materials are simply concentrated on the
carbon particles. As a result, the carbon becomes exhausted and
disposal or treatment of the spent carbon is required. Biological
treatment systems can be designed to produce complete degradation
of many organic chemicals such that no further treatment is
required and the systems may continue to operate indefinitely. One
of the primary disadvantages of these systems is their sensitivity
to variations in the characteristics of the waste stream being
treated. BAG systems should perform better than either of these
others since biodegradation will reduce the pollutant load to the
carbon, thereby extending its life. BAG systems should also
perform as better biodegradation systems since adsorption by the
carbon should dampen changes in the waste stream that will tend to
destabilize the system and provide "back-up" removal capability
when the biological system is upset.
Approach; Bench-scale laboratory systems have been designed to
simulate full-scale systems using granular activated carbon (GAG)
without biodegradation, GAG with biodegradation (BAG), and
biodegradation by a fixed-film (non-activated carbon) on a poorly
adsorbing surface. These systems will be subjected to different
types of "shock-loads" or changes in the characteristics of the
waste stream being treated. Parallel to this effort will be
studies designed to develop methods for investigating the removal
mechanisms operative in the columns. These techniques will then
be studied to understand why each system responds as it does to the
various shock-loads. In later years, we will use these results to
determine optimal design and operational conditions for BAG
columns.
status: Bench-scale systems have been designed and built and are
being tested to determine their baseline operating characteristics.
Preliminary shock-load studies indicate that BAG systems are
significantly more stable than non-activated carbon systems and
continue to operate long after GAG systems are exhausted. We are
currently trying to stress the BAG systems to the point of failure
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to determine appropriate test limits. A test has been developed
to measure the amount of biological material in the systems "non-
destructively," without disturbing their operation. The
measurement technique will allow us to isolate the effects
resulting from the amount of biological material from other
mechanisms that affect system performance. The technique is
currently being compared to traditional methods in which the system
is analyzed destructively (that is, by disturbing the operation of
the system).
Destruction of Biologically Resistant Organic* by Supercritical
Water oxidation: W.J. Weber, Jr., The University of Michigan
floal t The goal is to explore and develop the use of supercritical
water oxidation (SCWO) as a means for destroying biologically
resistant hazardous organic substances, such as PCBs and higher
molecular weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), in the
concentrates and residues of more traditional biological and
physicochemical remediation processes.
Rationale: Supercritical fluids exhibit properties of both liquids
and gases. Water becomes a supercritical fluid at temperatures
above 374 degrees Celsius and at pressures above 218 atmospheres.
The oxidation of organics in water at these conditions is
potentially a more rapid, yet more controllable process than more
traditional incineration techniques. Moreover, because the SCWO
process occurs in a closed system, an essentially complete
destruction is possible without release of harmful intermediate
products to the environment.
Approach; The first phase of the research uses a completely mixed
batch reactor (CMBR) system designed to handle viscous organics and
solids as well as more ordinary organic solutions. These
experiments involve the injection of small amounts of organics into
a supercritical mixture of oxygen and water, then monitoring the
oxidation of the organic compounds. Analyses are to include
characterization of intermediate products, mechanisms, and reaction
kinetics.
Status: Design criteria and specifications for a 1.8 liter CMBR
system constructed of Hastelloy C-276 to accommodate the extreme
conditions (heat, pressure, corrosion) of SCWO reactions have been
completed and construction initiated. The formal experimental
program is scheduled to begin in December 1989.
Methods of Isolation of Hazardous Substances from complex Mixtures:
M.S. Simmons, The University of Michigan
Goal: The goal is to establish conditions for extractions of bound
organics from soils and other materials using supercritical fluid
extraction techniques.
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Rational*i Most methods for extracting hazardous organics from
complex mixtures are not only tedious, but also inefficient.
Extractions using a supercritical fluid which possesses good
solvating power as well as diffusivity offer potential means to
isolate bound organics from different matrices associated with
hazardous wastes. One of the drawbacks against using this
technique is the lack of knowledge and experience of its
performance compared to the conventional methods of extraction
already approved as test methods. This study focuses on the
comparison of the extraction efficiency and selectivity for
selected organics using both conventional and supercritical fluid
extraction techniques.
Approach; Mixtures of selected chemicals representing a wide range
of polarity are being used. Selection criteria are based on how
frequently the chemicals are found in hazardous waste samples,
commercial availability of pure samples, and availability of
existing methods for their analysis. Recovery of these chemicals
in different matrices such as soils, activated carbon, clays,
plastic materials, etc., will be studied by varying the conditions
of the supercritical fluid extraction. Recovery from these
matrices will be related in terms of the solvating ability of the
supercritical fluid at different temperatures and pressures for
extraction.
Statust Mixtures of chemicals have been selected and conditions
for their analyses established. Several samples have been spiked
with the standard mixtures and split for both conventional and
supercritical methods of extraction.
Training and Technology Transfer
Development of State Industrial Assistance Programs:
K.E. Vigmostad, Michigan State University
Goal: The goal is to assess the current situation of state
programs for industrial assistance to small and medium-sized
hazardous substances companies in Region 3 and 5 states.
Rationale: All states have small to medium-sized industries that
can benefit from state assistance programs designed to improve
industrial management of hazardous substances. Industries often
need help to understand state and federal hazardous substance laws
and regulations. They also can gain from improved plant processes,
and other industry-specific guidance. Regulatory and enforcement
costs are believed to decrease when this type of state assistance
is provided. Of the eleven states and the District of Columbia in
Regions 3 and 5, only five states have an industrial assistance
program. This project will provide assistance to help establish
such programs as needed.
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Approachx State industrial assistance comes in many forms such as
telephone consulting services, centralized information referral,
industry-specific written materials, in-plant audits, applied
research, and grants for innovative waste management practices.
Some states — North Carolina, Minnesota, and California — have
programs which are considered to be very successful. The factors
that make them successful will be studied by looking at how they
are structured, what steps were taken to set them up, and their
successes and failures. The information will be used to determine
if there are any elements that might be incorporated into Region
3 and 5 state programs. Each Region 3 and 5 state will be visited
to explore individual state needs and visit their facilities first
hand. Every effort will be made to avoid duplication and to
develop referral services to existing clearinghouses and
information sources. Information needs will be evaluated and a
final report with recommendations will be written and presented to
the Region 3 and 5 states at a forum such as the National Waste
Reduction Roundtable.
gtatuai Initial telephone contacts have been made. Brochures,
fact sheets, project reports, enabling legislation and other
information are being collected and will be assessed. The
feasibility of a simple computerized data base to serve as a
referral tool about the capabilities and personnel in the state
programs is being explored. A Spring 1990 tour of each state is
being planned. Completion of a final report is expected in 1990.
Newsletter: K.E. Vigmostad, Michigan State University
Qoalt The goal is to develop an extensive list of people
interested in the research findings of Center researchers, and to
produce a newsletter to communicate our research activities and
progress to these individuals.
Rationale; A newsletter is a useful tool to communicate
information to a given audience on a specified topic. Despite many
excellent newsletters available on a full range of topics, there
is a need to produce a newsletter which communicates highlights of
selected research conducted under the auspices of the Center. In
this way, research findings as well as discussions of potential or
actual applications of the research will reach those most
interested.
Approachi Rather than trying to be all things to all people, the
Center's newsletter will focus on informing a select audience about
critical research and research findings involving Center
researchers. No attempt will be made to announce meetings or
events of other organizations which would duplicate the efforts of
other newsletters. The Center's newsletter will also serve as an
information referral service, rather than primary source, steering
people to existing sources of information. It will be written for
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an audience with some understanding of hazardous substance issues
and research. It will communicate highly technical information in
an easy-to-understand way. Center staff will refine the format and
content of the newsletter over time as needed.
status; Many different newsletters have been collected and
analyzed for the effectiveness of their format and content. An
initial format has been designed to meet the needs of the Center.
A mailing list of people interested in hazardous substance research
is being compiled. Arrangements for producing and distributing the
newsletter are being made. The first issue is scheduled to be
ready by early 1991. The newsletter will be an ongoing semi-annual
Center publication.
Research Symposium: K.E. Vigmostad, Michigan State University
Goal; The goal is to summarize and disseminate the latest research
information about on-site remediation at a national or
international, invitational research symposium involving all five
regional EPA centers. Published proceedings on the research
findings and summary conclusions will be finalized and distributed
six to nine months after the symposium.
Rationalei Research symposia are often designed to share
information among researchers from the same discipline who are
engaged in related research on a specified topic. Seldom is there
any attempt to critically examine the state-of-the-knowledge on a
single topic by presenting and discussing current research findings
with peers in many disciplines in order to reach consensus
conclusions about the overall findings. Involving all five EPA
Centers together will result in a comprehensive approach and will
help build bridges among researchers across the nation. On-site
remediation is a critical topic with many people in industry and
government eager for information and guidance about research and
application on this subject.
Approach: The five center directors will select co-conveners to
oversee participant selection for a few focal areas. Having two
conveners for each focal area will spread the work load as well as
help stimulate ideas. The co-conveners will be responsible for
developing a list of not more than 100 people to invite to present
papers and otherwise participate. Participants will take part in
a one-weak intensive symposium in a retreat-like setting.
Participants will present prepared papers that have been
distributed in advance. The conclusions reached at the symposium
will be recorded and a draft version will be ready by the end of
the week for participants to take home. Co-conveners will monitor
the publishing of the complete proceedings which will include the
conclusions reached at the symposium.
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gtatua: The Kellogg Biological Station, located on Gull Lake in
southwestern Michigan, has been reserved for the week of June 9-
14, 1991. One-hundred people can be comfortably accommodated for
the week. Initial exploration with the other center directors is
underway, and focal area possibilities are being discussed.
Conference coordinators have been contacted and a conference
planning budget has been drafted. Completion is expected in 1991.
Materials and Hazardous Waste Workshop: J.H. Johnson, Howard
University
goal: The goal of this project is to orient science and
mathematics teachers to environmental issues, career opportunities,
and challenges in the field. The teachers are expected to share
this information with students in junior and senior high schools
and eventually to develop teaching modules and/or class projects
which can be incorporated into future environmental programs.
Rationale: Teachers and counselors are the cornerstones of the
education of future scientists and engineers. By training this
target group, it is expected that their students will obtain a more
profound awareness of environmental issues and become more
interested in pursuing careers in environmental science,
mathematics, and engineering.
Approach: Twenty participants from the Washington, DC school
system were selected to attend a five-day workshop. Hazardous
waste issues were defined, described, and discussed by
participants. Lectures, discussions, and interactive sessions were
given by nine Howard University faculty members and representatives
from the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Chesapeake Bay
Foundation. The topics included Hazardous Waste, Health/Risk
Assessment, and Interactive Outreach Programs and Environmental
Careers.
Status: The workshop was held August 1989. As a follow-up, Howard
University faculty will meet with the teachers and counselors again
in 1990. At that meeting the teachers and counselors will present
environmental issue teaching modules and class projects that can
be used for future programs. Based on an evaluation of the
workshop, a refined version will be presented in another urban
center in Region 3 and 5 during the next funding period and
possibly made available for national distribution. Completion is
expected in 1991.
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waste Minimisation and Training: P.P. Nowak, The University of
Michigan
Goal; The goal is to develop information and training materials
that will help soil and hazardous waste generators reduce the
amount of waste they generate. This will be done by creating
technology transfer materials designed directly to focus on this
problem. Both industry and government representatives will be
involved as advisors on this project.
Rationale; Both EPA and industry representatives have acknowledged
the need to develop information and training in this area since
Congress mandated a 25 percent reduction in wastes generated by
1992. Education, training, and information transfer appear to be
most important current tools for making an immediate sizable impact
on the problem.
Approach; The project managers have previously developed a series
of EPA-funded training projects that use written materials and
video to bring organized information to professionals in the field.
The same approach is planned for this project. The value of this
system is that it can be used by individuals in widely separated
locations. It is developed from the experience of working with
involved professionals and guided by their insights to create
practical solutions that will work.
Status: An outline of the basic points of this program has been
developed. Currently, industry officials are being contacted to
see if they would be interested in supporting the project with both
advisory help and financial support. Additional support is being
provided through EPA's Office of Solid Waste. Project planning
should be completed in 1989. The final project is expected in
1991.
SUMMARY OF OUTPUTS IN FY 1989
Refereed Journal Articles 0
Articles Submitted or In Press 0
Books and Bound Proceedings 0
Chapters in Books or Proceedings 1
Project Reports 1
Conferences and Workshops Held 4
TOTAL 6
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Chapters in Books and Bound Proceedings
Kukor, J.J. and R.H. Olsen, "Diversity of Toluene Degradation
Following Long-term Exposure to BTEX In-Situ." Biotechnology
and Biodearadation. Kamely, D., A. Chakrabarty, and G. Omenn
(eds.)r Gulf Publishing Co., Houston, TX (in press).
Project Reports
Johnson, J.H., Jr., "Teacher Notebook for the Materials and
Hazardous Waste Workshop," Howard University, Washington, DC,
August 1989.
Conferences and Workshops
Anaerobic Dechlorination of PCBs — General Electric-sponsored
workshop, Tiedje, J.M., June 1989 (by invitation).
American Society of Civil Engineers 1990 Conference
"Biodegradation and Stabilization of Sludges Containing PAHs"
— J.H. Johnson, Jr. and M.M. Varma, Washington, DC, July 9-
11, 1990 (abstract submitted)
Biotechnology and Biodegradation Workshop — "Diversity of
Toluene Degradation Following Long-term Exposure to BTEX In-
Situ." — J.J. Kukor and R.H. Olsen, Portugal, 1989 (by
invitation).
Soil Science and Society of American 1989 Annual Meeting —
"Bioremediation of Contaminated Soils" — J.M. Tiedje, October
1989 (by invitation).
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Chapter 3
Waste Minimisation and Management
Hazardous Substance Research Center
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Center: Waste Minimization and Management Center
Participants: North Carolina State University
The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Texas A&M University, Galveston and College
Station
Director: Michael Overcash
Department of Chemical Engineering
Box 7905
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905
Phone: 919/737-2325
FAX: 919/737-3465
THE CENTER AT A GLANCE
Following a competitive selection process, in February 1989
a hazardous substance research center was awarded to a three-
university consortium headed by North Carolina State University.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and two campuses
of Texas A&M University (College Station and Galveston) are
partners in the consortium.
According to EPA guidelines, the broad mission of the Center
is to perform innovative research and technology transfer
activities on topics of concern to the States in Federal Regions
4 and 6 and to the Nation at large. Within that context, the
specific mission of the Center is three-fold:
o to develop practical means for industry to eliminate the
use and generation of hazardous substances;
o to treat those wastes that cannot be eliminated; and
o to provide secure containment for treatment residues.
The role of the partner institutions in the Center is dictated
by the skills aix that each school has to offer. Under the
direction of Dr. Kirk Brown, Texas A&M University has taken the
lead in research on solids and long-term containment. Dr. William
Glaze heads the research team at the University of North Carolina
which is investigating treatment and discharge of pollutants to the
air and aquatic environments. Waste minimization and transporta-
tion research efforts are spearheaded by the researchers at North
Carolina State University.
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The Center offers a creative research staff from numerous
disciplines including engineers committed to industrial
productivity improvements, environmental scientists, and
researchers from several basic sciences. These individuals work
together to devise inventive solutions to critical hazardous
substance management problems. This teamwork extends to
collaborative, multidisciplinary studies, based on the philosophy
that a major benefit of the center approach to research is the
opportunity to put talented minds from diverse backgrounds to work
solving key problems.
A list of key individuals currently associated with the Center
appears below as Table 1.
Table it Key Personnel in the Center
North Carolina state University
Dr. Michael R. Overcash
Dr. Richard M. Felder
Dr. Ruben G. Carbonell
Dr. Peter K. Kilpatrick
Dr. H. Henry Lamb
Dr. P.K. Lim
Dr. Edward P. Stahel
Dr. Dale A. Denny
Dr. Cliff M. Kaufman
Dr. Thomas W. Joyce
Dr. Josef S. Gratzl
Dr. John R. Stone
Dr. John Sutton
Dr. Thomas W. Stephenson
University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill
Dr. Bill Glaze
Dr. Fran DiGiano
Dr. Rich Kamens
Dr. Debbie Amaral
Dr. Judy Charles
Dr. Don Francisco
Texas A&M University
Dr. Kirk Brown
Dr. C.S. Giam
Dr. R. Lytton
A core of funding is provided by EPA. Important additional
support is received from the states of North Carolina and Texas.
A synopsis of center funding is given below in Table 2.
Table 2: Funding
FUNDING SOURCES
EPA: Centers Program
Other Government
TOTAL
FY 1989 FUNDS
$2,000,000
898.464
$2,898,464
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CENTER DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Managing waste of any kind has become an increasingly complex
process requiring a hierarchy of decision-making and technologies,
including minimization of wastes at the source, treatment or
detoxification of wastes, and containment of residues. Although
the Center conducts research at each level of the hierarchy, its
major goal is to prevent chemical losses and reduce waste
generation by industry. The focus on waste reduction evolved in
North Carolina a decade ago as a centrally identified collection
of technologies for improving waste management. As a result, the
Center has benefited from a historical perspective as well as a
multi-university commitment.
A critical job for the Center is to identify the leading edge
of research needs to advance the technologies used at each level
of the hierarchy, particularly with respect to waste minimization.
This is a difficult and evolving task. Although the Center's
emphasis has been on issues in Regions 4 and 6, the Center's
contributions to waste reduction can be expected to be of
significant value across the Nation. Because of that, the Center
is committed to achieving and maintaining continuing cooperation
among the HSRCs and other organizations engaged in related work.
When it comes to waste minimization, most large corporations
actively employ any effective technology known to them. The
Center, therefore, is concentrating its efforts on identifying the
difficult processes and chemicals for which waste reduction
alternatives are not available or cost-effective. Another priority
within the Center is to perform innovative research on treatment
techniques and long term containment of wastes. The Center's
contributions in these areas should significantly enhance the
Nation's progress in detoxifying and containing waste.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 1989
Although the Center has been operating for less than one year,
some significant results have already been generated. Some of
these are summarized below.
Public disclosure of fugitive emissions of listed chemicals
from industrial sites is required under Superfund. Reliable
emission data are scarce and hard to interpret. Much of the
emissions estimation data come from refineries, which do not
accurately represent emissions from other .industries. For
instance, refineries do not characteristically emit methylene
chloride or chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Polyurethane manufacturing
plants, on the other hand, produce significant quantities of
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fugitive methylene chloride and CPCs. The Center is conducting
projects which seek to understand the reason for these
unintentional emissions and to devise ways to recover these
compounds. Preliminary analysis has determined that fugitive loss
from mechanical design flaws, such as leaking valves, may be
significant. Similarly, laboratory investigations of polyurethane
foam have established the dynamics of emissions and, hence, have
provided a starting point for developing recovery strategies.
Many manufacturing processes require a high degree of
cleanliness on the surface of the manufactured article. Such a
need for purity frequently results in the generation of significant
quantities of hazardous wastes. This is true, for instance, in the
production of integrated circuits and optical storage media. With
an ultimate goal of developing alternative surface cleaning
techniques which employ fewer hazardous substances, the Center has
undertaken research to understand the mechanisms of particle
deposition from solvents and the adhesion forces which are
responsible for particle attachment. Early results show that glass
particles and polystyrene latex spheres, which have little or no
affinity for a silicon wafer surface with a thin native oxide film
can, nevertheless, be deposited on the wafer, as it is removed from
the solution through the air-water interface. The number of
particles deposited is directly proportional to the bulk particle
concentration. When the wafer is completely immersed, the number
of particles adsorbed to the wafer does not increase with time
because of the low particle fluxes in the aqueous phase. If the
aqueous film containing the particles is allowed to dry, the
adhesion forces increase considerably. Even this discovery greatly
increases our understanding of the complex processes involved in
microchip manufacture. As a first step in developing better
cleaning methods, investigators are simultaneously pursuing
research to determine whether efficient gas-phase processes, such
as ultraviolet/ozone cleaning, may supplant conventional solvent-
based techniques, thus eliminating a major portion of the
objectionable waste generated by the microelectronics industry.
The Center is developing an expert system to help locate
disposal sites and plan transportation routes for hazardous wastes.
The Federal Highway Guidelines for Transporting Hazardous Materials
provides the basis for the system which analyzes route
characteristics, accident probabilities, property value, and
population exposure for route and site access alternatives. The
project will provide an easy-to-use systematic method for
identifying safe route and disposal site access alternatives.
Future application of the routing and planning method will help
provide needed accuracy to truck manifests which currently depend
on the "honor system".
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Effluent biomonitoring of wastewater is fast becoming the
cornerstone of policy for state regulatory agencies as they issue
new National Pollution Discharge Elimination Permit System (NPDES)
permits for control of toxic pollutants. While EPA is developing
a protocol for toxicity reduction evaluations, experience is
lacking and the knowledge base for relating chemical structure to
toxicity is limited. The goal of one Center project is to develop
a systematic approach to toxicity identification that can be easily
adopted by major classes of industry in EPA Regions IV and VI, with
the eventual goal of providing recommendations on chemical
replacement or treatment. A list of 13 industrial effluents in
Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina that exhibit aquatic
toxicity and that contain specific chemicals of concern to human
health was developed by screening available data sources in Region
IV. From this list, textile and organic chemicals manufacturing
plants have been targeted for closer examination as candidates for
laboratory research on fractionation schemes to identify specific
sources of toxicity that may be applicable industry-wide.
For atmospheric emissions, the Center effort on treatment has
focused on developing a framework to decide among alternative
technologies. This is a potentially important tool for industry
and government to enhance decision-making rather than to avoid the
selection of one alternative over another. Currently, the Center
is examining the disposal of flame-retardants. Waste products
containing flame-retardant materials such as polybrominated
biphenyls (PBBs) must be disposed of cautiously: the PBBs are
themselves hazardous and, if deposited in landfills or treated
chemically, may end up in the water table or degrade into more
toxic compounds. When such materials are incinerated, they can
generate toxic by-products, such as polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxin
or furans. The fate of these compounds in the atmosphere is
currently unknown. However, preliminary work suggests that they
may be fully photodegradable. Should this prove to be the case,
incineration may present a clearly better treatment alternative
than other chemical or physical options.
Past waste disposal practices have caused contamination of
landfills by hazardous compounds which cannot be removed from the
landfill, but which must be contained, to avoid leakage into the
groundwater or runoff onto public or private lands. Landfill
containment has proven to be difficult enough that the Center has
made a commitment to investigate effective methods for securing
these sites. The initial focus of the Center's effort is on the
study of multiple liners in hazardous waste containment facilities.
Preliminary data show that the addition of cement (3% by weight)
to clay soils used for landfill liners will reduce the hydraulic
conductivity by one order of magnitude below that of the unamended
soil. Additions of 3%, 7%, and 9% hydrated lime appear to increase
the hydraulic conductivity of compacted clay soils. This research
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brings us closer to the eventual goal of minimizing the possibility
that present waste disposal activities will require future
remediation.
In a separate research project, the technique of in-situ
bioremediation of contaminated vadose zone soils is being studied.
This effort will advance our ability to reclaim subsurface soils
which otherwise serve as continued sources for migration. This
research will develop a scientific basis on which others may base
the design of future field installations for in-situ degradation
of hazardous organic compounds in the vadose zone. The preliminary
study has been conducted using undisturbed soil cores taken from
the vadose zone of an area contaminated with diesel fuel and
gasoline from leaking underground storage tanks. The results
indicate that the microbial activity and consequent degradation of
the pollutant chemicals can be increased through the addition of
oxygen and heat. Analysis of the concentrations present in the
residual soil after treatment will provide estimates of the
degradation rates which can potentially be achieved in the field.
Several technology transfer and training activities have been
undertaken. A university-level course entitled Waste Minimization
- Legal. Technical, and Human Factors, is being developed. This
appears to be one of the first universities offering to incorporate
at the level of a full course to advanced undergraduates and
graduate students the concepts of waste minimization. In addition,
eleven continuing education courses on hazardous waste management
and technology have been offered in conjunction with the Center.
These have been in Texas, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.
A primary Center goal is the actual demonstration of waste
minimization technology in industrial plants. A current emphasis
is given to identifying hydrofluoric acid users to complete a reuse
loop with generators of such materials from semiconductor
manufacturing. In order to transfer environmental research at an
even larger scale, the Center is sponsoring a conference called
Environmental Research in the Sunbelt.
SUMMARY 07 ONGOING PROJECTS
Investigator* Pro-tect Title
Waste Minimization
Lamb Surface Cleaning in Microelectronics
Fabrication
Lim Minimization and Recovery of Volatile
Organic Losses
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Felder Trace Hazardous Substance Reduction in
Chemical Manufacturing
Overcash Multi-Industry Waste Reduction Model
Denny Analysis of North Carolina Super fund
listed Air Emissions for Waste Reduction
Potential
Transportation
Stone Optimal Routing Strategies for the Truck
Transport of Hazardous Materials
Treatment t Management
DiGiano Aquatic Toxicity Mechanisms of Compounds
in Industrial Wastewater Discharges
Kamens A Methodology for Analyzing Hazardous
Waste Materials from Incineration & Other
Treatment Alternatives
run ant i Clean-u
Brown Effectiveness of Multiple Liner Systems
for Hazardous Waste Containment Facilities
Giam In-Situ Bioremediation of Hazardous
Substances in the Vadose Zone
Training and Technology Transfer
Denny Waste Minimization-Legal Technical, and
Human Factors
Denny Hydrofluoric Acid Reuse
Kaufman Research Conference
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PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Wast* Minimilation
surface Cleaning in Microelectronics Fabricationt Alternatives to
Aqueous (RCA) Solutions and CFCst R. Carbonell and H. Lamb, North
Carolina State University
Goal; The objectives of this project are to: (1) elucidate the
mechanisms of particle deposition from solvents onto silicon wafers
during microelectronics fabrication, and (2) devise alternatives
for removing particles and organic films from wafers that do not
involve corrosive aqueous solutions (as in conventional RCA cleans)
or chlorofluorocarbons.
Rationale: The microelectronics industry has stringent
requirements for surface cleaning of silicon wafers. During the
manufacturing process, particles are deposited from bulk solution
and when the wafer passes through the gas/liquid interface.
Electrostatic, van der Waals, and capillary forces affect particle
deposition and the strength of particle adhesion on surfaces.
Understanding of the deposition mechanisms and knowledge of the
strengths of adhesion of particles on wafers should lead to
rational selection and use of alternative solvents and surfactant-
based cleaning systems. UV/ozone cleaning has been demonstrated
to remove organic contamination from silicon wafers, producing CO2
and H2O. To facilitate acceptance of this technology by the
microelectronics industry, the detailed surface chemistry of
UV/ozone cleaning, which has a critical impact on wafer viability
in subsequent processing, needs to be assessed by in-situ
spectroscopic characterization.
Approach: Micron- and submicron-size particles of glass,
polystyrene, metals, ceramics, and silicon are deposited on silicon
wafer surfaces from the aqueous phase. The number of adherent
particles is measured using a laser wafer scanner, as a function
of suspended particle concentration, immersion time, and the number
of passes through the gas/liquid interface. The relative strengths
of adhesion are measured using a megasonics unit that allows
variation of the power and time of exposure.
A gas-phase wafer cleaning station with additional
capabilities for in-situ surface analysis by multiple internal
reflection infrared spectroscopy and for deposition of thin Si and
SiO2 films is being constructed. Initial studies will focus on the
kinetics for removal of adsorbed organic films and of concomitant
oxide growth during UV/ozone surface cleaning. Factors to be
considered are ozone concentration, radiation intensity, substrate
temperature, and surface chemical structure of the adsorbate film.
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Statusx The investigation of particle deposition and removal is
underway and results are forthcoming. The equipment for the gas-
phase cleaning with in-situ surface characterization has been
received. Construction of the apparatus is underway and
experimentation should begin by 1/90.
Minimization and Recovery of Volatile Organic Losses: P. Lim and
C. Kaufman, North Carolina State University
Goal: For two separate projects underway, the goals are to: (1)
identify and study the principal loss mechanisms by which fugitive
emissions of volatile substances occur from valves, flanges,
pressure relief devices, drains, and the seals of compressors,
pumps, and agitators, and (2) quantify the volatization dynamics
of blowing agent loss and to examine innovative means to maintain
safe worker conditions and current soft polyurethane product
formulations while simultaneously recovering the auxiliary blowing
agent. The goal is to increase the ambient concentration of
auxiliary blowing agents to the level where recovery/recycle is
economically feasible. Subsequently, air emissions of either
ozone-depleting CFCs or of a volatile organic (methylene chloride)
would be minimized.
Rationale: The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation,
and Liability Act (a.k.a. "Superfund") mandates the public
disclosure of fugitive emissions of listed chemicals from
industrial sites. Reliable emission data -are scarce and hard to
interpret, and estimates of chemical emissions based on refinery
emission factors are considered to be excessive. The study seeks
to rectify the present lack of fundamental understanding of the
emissions mechanisms, so that, ultimately, sensible and effective
control measures may be developed which would reduce volatile
emissions that are of concern under Superfund regulations. A
second diffuse atmospheric emission occurs in manufacturing open-
cell polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam density is currently
reduced by the use of chlorofluorocarbons or methylene chloride as
auxiliary blowing agents which are promptly emitted in the
manufacturing process. The recovery of an auxiliary blowing agent
is a complex issue coupled directly with another manufacturing
requirement, the maintenance of safe plant working conditions in
the presence of small quantities of isocyanates.
Approach i The first step is a theoretical study and model
development of fugitive organics. Next, an experimental study
will be performed to verify, extend, or modify these models. For
the polyurethane foam research, a series of experiments have been
completed using laboratory prepared foams with representative
formulations to determine overall weight loss, auxiliary blowing
agent weight loss, and foam temperature profiles versus time.
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These data allow a basic understanding of the timing and sequence
of events in the laboratory foam reactions, comparison with
analogous plant experiments, and development of possible strategies
for recovery/reuse of the auxiliary blowing agent.
status: The results of the model analyses suggest that for the so-
called "non-leakers", which are defined by EPA as leak sources with
concentration levels below 10,000 ppm, capillarity is the principal
mechanism governing the emissions of condensible vapors from
valves, flanges, drains, and pressure relief devices. Five
dimensionless groups composed of the properties of the capillary
flow fluid, pore dimensions and surface characteristics, and
temperature have been identified. A sorption-diffusion model and
a hydrodynamic lubrication model are being developed, respectively,
for the emission of non-condensible vapors from valves and flanges
and for volatile emissions from the seals of rotating equipment.
An apparatus consisting of an emission chamber and a gas
chromatograph is near completion for testing the capillarity model.
In the next year, a coalition of foam manufacturers, chemical
suppliers, and relevant machinery manufacturers, as appropriate,
will be formed to develop the necessary design modifications for
tunnel retrofit/isolation and collection of tunnel and post-tunnel
emissions on one foam line. The goal for this demonstration
project at one plant would be to accomplish the following tasks to
determine costs versus benefits:
- determine foam quality with recycled auxiliary blowing agent,
- determine worker exposure levels to TDI (and methylene
chloride),
- serially vary operating parameters to quantify an appropriate
range of design variables and costs,
- quantify any changes in productivity and yields, and
- quantify collection efficiencies for all emissions from the
tunnel area.
Trace Hazardous Substance Reduction in Chemical Manufacturing:
R. Felder, C. Chen, J. Gratzl, T. Joyce, P. Lodrini, North Carolina
State University
Goal* This is actually two projects in one. Task Number 1 has two
objective*. They are to: (1) evaluate processes that minimize
the production of toxic effluents in bleach plants, and (2)
recommend alternate bleach sequences that do not favor the
production of such compounds. Task Number 2 seeks to formulate a
procedure for selecting hazardous chemical substances amenable to
waste minimization solutions, catalog chemical processes that give
rise to these solutions, and identify possible process
modifications or alternative processes that could lower or
eliminate the occurrence of these constituents in wastes.
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Rational** Part of the Center's mission is to demonstrate the
utility of a broad variety of approaches to waste minimization.
Tha two activities described herein represent completely different
approaches. The pulp bleaching study focuses on determining the
formation chemistry of a specific class of pollutants in a
particular process. The benzene effort is a component of a broad
literature survey intended to identify candidate processes that
might serve as targets for subsequent focused research studies.
ADDroachi For Task Number 1, Kraft pulp (Kappa 32.6) is prepared
from loblolly pine. The pulp is bleached (3% - active alkali).
The leachate and the black liquor (BL) are extracted with ether at
pH 8. The unbleached pulp is also extracted with ether followed
by acetone. The extracts are then analyzed by gas chromatography-
mass spectroscopy.
Benzene has been chosen as the substance to be studied in Task
Number 2. A great deal is known about benzene emission rates and
alternative pathways exist for a number of the products that
utilize benzene as a feed material. The production of ethylbenzene
has been chosen as a first production process. Three alternative
processes have been developed for producing ethylbenzene: the
A1C13 process, the Alkar process, and the Mobil/Badger process. As
much technical data as possible will be collected on benzene
emissions in these three processes. A primary data source will be
the "benzene docket", a large collection of information about
gaseous benzene emissions compiled by the Environmental Protection
Agency and kept on file at the Office of Air Quality Planning and
Standards in Durham, North Carolina. Other needed data —
primarily having to do with process technology and condensed phase
emissions — will be identified, and preliminary efforts to locate
sources of these data will be undertaken.
8tatus» In Task Number 1, the first phase (isolation and
characterization of monomeric phenols in the BL and pulp) is
completed. The BL contains considerable amounts of vanillin and
acetoguaiacone. GC-MS studies further indicate that both these
compounds are absorbed on the pulp. These compounds could be the
possible precursors for chlorophenols during bleaching in addition
to some high-molecular mass compounds from the pulp in the residual
lignin. The second phase (bleaching and kinetic studies)are being
initiated. In Task Number 2, contacts have been established with
the EPA office in Durham, and arrangements have been made to access
the benzene docket.
Multi-Industry Waste Reduction Model: M. Over cash, North Carolina
State University
Goal: The purpose of this project is to develop and use a
computer-based framework to assess the overall reduction of waste
to determine if particular changes at individual facilities
actually lead to net waste reduction.
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Rationale! Industrial manufacturing is a complex phenomenon,
involving a wide range of inputs and products. The field of waste
minimization is complex and necessitates a far-reaching view of
potential consequences: too often improvements are made in one
medium, but at the cost of off-setting decrements in another. The
result is not minimization of waste, but relocation.
Approacht In the first phase of this study, data are being
collected from available sources to couple energy use or savings
with increases or decreases in pollutant emissions to the air and
water are being considered. This analysis will include thermal and
radioactive wastes, as well as listed pollutants. Case studies
will be conducted in the second phase, in which data are available
to track the wastes produced at all stages of the raw materials and
the influence, if any, on product use. These will better describe
the mass and thermodynamic information from which the computer
frame can be started.
Statust The collection of reports and data are underway.
Analysis of North Carolina Super fund-listed Air Emissions for Waste
Reduction Potentials D. Denny, North Carolina State University
Goali The work product from the analysis will be a book containing
a technical description of waste reduction technologies in place
at North Carolina industrial plants and other sites with similar
manufacturing processes. Opportunities for technology transfer,
cost information, and research needs for difficult-to-control
emissions will be included.
Rationale: Staff at the North Carolina Pollution Prevention Pays
Program (PPP) provide waste reduction assistance to North Carolina
companies. An organized record of installed waste reduction
technologies and recommended opportunities for technology transfer
would greatly enhance PPP staff productivity. Identification of
research needs will be useful to the Center program.
Approachi The 1988 and 1989 SARA emissions data base were obtained
from the North Carolina Environmental Defense Fund. Software to
manipulate the data base has been obtained and installed. A draft
workbook format has been completed and will be submitted to PPP for
review and approval.
Status t Completion of the workbook is planned for June 30, 1990.
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Transportation
Highway Routing strategies for Safely Transporting Hazardous
Substances: J. Stone, North Carolina State University
Goal; The goal of this project is to develop an expert system
which is capable of aiding planners for hazardous waste routes and
for access to disposal sites.
Rationale! Current research elsewhere indicates that documented
guidelines for transporting hazardous waste have been effective in
reducing highway accidents and spills. Furthermore, expert systems
within the broader field of artificial intelligence have provided
frameworks for solving data-intensive, heuristically defined
routing and other problems. The premise is that various rules-of-
thumb and documented guidelines may be efficiently incorporated
into easy-to-use computer programs based on artificial intelligence
methodologies.
Approach; An expandable approach to developing a route planning
tool will be followed. Initially, Federal Highway Administration
Guidelines will form the basis of an expert system using software
called "EXSYS" to rank route alternatives. A top-level command
file controls the flow of the system with a customized menu which
includes options for entering route information, route analysis and
selection, and reporc generation. The route information option
interfaces with a series of spreadsheets used to determine route
characteristics, accident probabilities, property value, and
population exposure for individual route alternatives. The route
analysis and selection option ranks the routes according to
estimated risk, and the results will be displayed by a customized
report generator in EXSYS.
Provisions have been made for future extensions to the expert
system so that a geographic information system can provide route
and other characteristics. There is also the flexibility to
incorporate network route optimization algorithms.
Status: The EXSYS framework has been designed and linked with
Lotus spreadsheets which perform the calculations from the FHWA
Guidelines. A working prototype expert system is expected in the
summer of 1990.
Treatment ft Management
Aquatic Toxicity Mechanisms of Compounds in Industrial Wastewater
Discharges: F. DiGiano, J. Charles, D. Amaral, D. Francisco,
University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Goal: The immediate goal of this project is to cooperate with a
direct industrial discharger in a study of fractionation schemes
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aimed at identifying the specific chemical source(s) of effluent
toxicity. The ultimate goal is to develop and test a laboratory
protocol that can be adopted by various classes of industry
important to Regions IV and VI to solve their aquatic toxicity
problem.
Rationale: The fractionation schemes developed so far by EPA
focus on identifying non-polar agents using one specific,
fractionating column material: CIS Solid Phase Extraction Column.
However, this may not even separate compounds like phenol that are
moderately non-polar. In addition, polar compounds, such as dyes
used in the textile industry, may contribute to aquatic toxicity
and will not be identified. Another concern is the complexity of
the EPA protocol which links aquatic toxicity testing with high-
pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS).
The need exists, therefore, for exploration of other solid phase
extraction procedures aimed at more polar compounds and for
practical ways to combine sophisticated HPLC/MS analyses with
biomonitoring. Ultimately, aquatic toxicity information for
specific industries should be a key element of pollution
minimization plans.
Approacht A listing of industries whose discharges may cause
aquatic toxicity and that discharge organic chemicals of possible
human health concern has been generated for North Carolina, South
Carolina, and Tennessee (this will be repeated later for other
Region IV states and then for Region VI states). General classes
of organic chemicals in use will be developed using available data
from NPDES permits and effluent guideline documents. Initially,
one industry representative of an important class will be selected
for investigation of fractionation procedures; others will be added
later. Various solid phase extraction options will be tested, as
will subsequent analytical approaches for specific identification
of those chemicals causing acute toxicity to Ceriodaphnia.
Chronic toxicity aspects are in the long-range plans. Protocols
will be developed for industry-wide use.
Status: An industry is soon to be selected for initial testing.
Over the next 2.5 years (March 1992), four to six representative
industries should be tested.
Strategy for Analysing Hazardous Wast* incineration and other
Treatment Technologies: R. Kamens, D. Amaral, J. Charles,
University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Goal: The objective of this project is to provide a framework
model for analyzing sets of alternatives for the treatment of
different types of hazardous materials. In this study, we will
compare, as a model situation, the thermal treatment of flame
retardant materials such as polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) with
other physical or chemical disposal alternatives.
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Rationale: Upon incineration of discarded materials which contain
flame retardant chemicals, toxic polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins
and furans (generally referred to as PBDDs & PBDFs) can be
generated. Little is known about the atmospheric stability of
PBDDs and PBDFs although very preliminary work suggests that some
of these PBDDs may photodegrade . Should this be the case,
incineration may be a more attractive disposal alternative than
landfill ing or chemical treatment. Using these compounds as test
cases we can develop a model to provide information which would
help one decide between discarding materials containing fire
retardants in a land fill (knowing all the costs, risks, and
societal concerns associated with this option) versus incineration,
with all the costs, risks, and societal concerns.
Approach: The potential treatment alternatives for discarded
materials which contain fire-retardant materials will be
investigated. Potential health and environmental impacts will be
combined with potential costs to provide an integrated analysis of
each relevant alternative of treatment and disposal. To provide
information on the stability of potentially toxic materials from
the incineration of fire retardants we will burn these materials
in a high temperature ignition vessel and add them directly to
existing 25m outdoor transparent Teflon film chambers. This will
permit us to age brominated dioxins in a captured air parcel under
realistic outdoor conditions and assess the overall stability or
reactivity.
status; Work on the framework model has already begun. An
ignition vessel has been developed and used to generate chamber
samples of brominated dioxins and furans. Atmospheric stability
experiments are planned for the 1989 fall months.
"inent t clean~up
Effectiveness of Multiple Liner Systems for Hazardous Waste
Containment Facilities: K. Brown, R. Lytton, C. Giam, Texas A&M
University
Goal; The immediate goal of this project is to evaluate the
potential use of stabilizing agents and additives for clay to
enhance the ability to withstand chemical attack and to retard the
migration of organic contaminants. Future goals include: (1)
evaluation of ventilation systems to extract the volatile
constituents from the leachate collection and leak detection
systems, and (2) development of a mathematical model to describe
the transport of organic contaminants through a composite liner
system.
Rationale; Many of the wastes resulting from RCRA waste treatment
and cleanup of Super fund sites which need to be disposed in
landfills still contain small quantities of hazardous constituents
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which could drain from the waste, adversely impact the integrity
of landfill liners, and migrate through them to the groundwater.
Recent data by Haxo indicate that certain organic contaminants,
even when occurring in dilute solutions, will solubilize in and
migrate through the plastics utilized for lining landfills. More
secure waste containment may be possible through improvements in
liner technology. These include addition of stabilizing agents to
prevent chemical attack, the addition of polymeric chemicals to
clay to increase the sorption capacity, and the use of ventilation
systems to remove volatile organic vapors before penetrating
liners.
Approacht The effects of several stabilizing agents on the
hydraulic conductivity of compacted clay soils will be evaluated
through a laboratory study employing fixed wall permeameters and
three soils of differing mineralogies. Specially constructed
diffusion test chambers similar to those used by Haxo will be made
and employed to measure the diffusion constants of various organics
through several thicknesses of high-density polyethylene (HOPE).
A mathematical model to describe the movement of chemicals through
a multicomponent state-of-the-art landfill liner will be assembled
and calibrated using the laboratory data. This will then provide
a means to design an optimum liner needed for long-term waste
containment.
statusi The laboratory testing of amendments (lime and cement) is
nearing completion. The diffusion test chambers have been
fabricated and diffusion measurements will begin in October 1989.
Preliminary work on assembling the model has begun and calibration
should be completed in the forthcoming year. The project will be
completed in February 1991.
In-Bitu Bioremediation of Hazardous Substances in the Vadose Zone:
C. Giam and K. Brown, Texas A&M University
Goal: The goal of this project is to develop and calibrate a
mathematical model to describe the in-situ biodegradation rate of
hazardous organics in vadose zone subsoils under given soil,
moisture, fertility, temperature, and oxygen conditions.
Rationale: Microorganisms indigenous to soils are capable of
degrading momt organic contaminants if the environment can be
adjusted to enhance the activity. Possible soil environmental
parameters to be adjusted may include: temperature, oxygen,
moisture, and fertility. A mathematical model based on scientific
principles is needed so that large-scale field systems can be
properly designed and operated for optimum efficiency and
productivity.
Approach: This study is being conducted using a three-level
approach. First, a mathematical model is being developed to
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describe the in-situ biodegradation rate of hazardous organics in
vadose zone subsoils under given soil, moisture, fertility,
temperature, and oxygen conditions. The second level will involve
laboratory measurements of biodegradation rates needed to calibrate
the model. In the third level, field experiments will be conducted
to document the effectiveness of the optimum treatments as
predicted from the level 1 and 2 studies.
Statuat Preliminary work on assembling the model (level 1) has
begun and calibration using laboratory data (level 2) should be
completed in the forthcoming year. Field experiments and final
model adjustments will be completed by February 1991.
Training and Technology Transfer
waste Minimisation - Legal/ Technical, and Human Factors:
D. Denny, North Carolina State University
Goal; The goal is to provide the necessary background for
engineering students to design, sell, and implement a waste
reduction program in an industrial environment.
Rationale: Current engineering educational curricula emphasize
the techniques and controls necessary to manufacture profitable
products. Most major companies are now committed to manufacturing
those products in a socially responsible manner. The waste
reduction course is consistent with this attitude and supplements
the rest of the engineering curriculum.
Approach: An advisory committee was formed, consisting of
representatives from academia, state government, federal
government, state industry, national industry, and environmental
groups. A course outline has been prepared and sent to the
advisory committee for comment. The first module of the course
material is in preparation. The course has been scheduled for the
spring semester in the Chemical Engineering Department at North
Carolina State University as a pilot.
Status; Course material preparation and review is scheduled to be
completed by the end of calendar year 1989.
Hydrofluoric Acid Reuse: D. Denny, North Carolina State University
Goal: Th« goal is to identify users of spent hydrofluoric acid
from the electronics industry.
Rationale: Electronics component manufacturers use hydrofluoric
acid for etching and cleaning purposes. The spent acid must be dis
disposed of as a hazardous waste. Research has shown the spent
acid can be used to treat steel and aluminum. Finding a user for
the spent acid would reduce the amount of hazardous waste
generated.
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Approach: A feasibility study will be designed, simultaneously,
interested companies which generate hydrofluoric acid will be
recruited to assist in locating users.
statusi A feasibility study is planned for completion by the end
of February 1990. Two of the three companies that supplied
material for the research no longer have a need to find a user for
the spent acid. The third is interested in the project and plans
to participate. One other spent acid generator has been identified
as has a potential user for the spent acids.
Research Conference: C. Kaufman, North Carolina State University
Goal: The goal is to transfer environmental research information
from Sunbelt university and government laboratories to regional
industries.
Rationale: There is a very large amount of relatively unkown,
steadily developing environmental research underway at universities
and research institution. It is important for industry and
government personnel to better understand these efforts since few
resources exist to duplicate this research. Thus, a regional
research conference and compendium were selected to bridge this
information transfer need.
Approach: A series of invited plenary lectures on current
environmental legislative activities and selected research topics
will be complimented with an extensive poster session.
Additionally, a comprehensive compendium of all regional
environmental research will be appropriately indexed and published.
Status: A two-day regional conference, The First Annual
Exposition: Environmental Research In The Sunbelt — 1989, was
held in Raleigh, North Carolina on November 14 and 15, 1989.
To ensure complete coverage of Regions 4 and 6, state coordinators
facilitated the dissemination of conference materials and the
collection of research abstracts for publication.
SUMMARY OF OUTPUTS IN FY 1989
Refereed Journal Articles 1
Articles Subaitted or In Press 0
Books and Bound Proceedings 0
Chapters in Books and Proceedings 0
Project Reports 0
Conference or Workshops Held • 0
Presentations _2—
TOTAL 3
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Refereed Journal Articles
Brown, K. W. and J. C. Thomas 1989. "Variability of Hydraulic
Conductivity with Depth within a Lift of Compacted Clay Soil,"
Agronomy Abstract, p. 32.
Presentations
D. Amaral, J. Charles, R. Kamens. "Strategy for Analyzing
Hazardous Waste Incineration of Fire Retardant Materials,"
presented to the Brominated Flame Retardant Industry Panel,
Research Triangle Park, NC, August 31, 1989.
D. Amaral. "Incinerator Risk Management for Polybrominated
Flame Retardants," presented at the Society for Risk Analysis,
San Francisco, November 1, 1989.
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Chapter 4
Hazardous Substanc* Research C«nt«r
for R«gion Pair 7/8
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center: Hazardous Substance Research Center for
U.S. EPA Regions 7 and 8
Participant** Kansas state University
Montana State University
University of Iowa
University of Missouri
University of Montana
University of Nebraska
University of Utah
Directori Larry E. Erickson
Department of Chemical Engineering
Durland Hall
Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas 66506-5102
Phone: 913/532-5584
FAX: 913/532-7810
THE CENTER AT A GLANCE
Kansas State University (KSU) leads the seven institution
consortium comprising the Hazardous Substance Research Center for
Federal Regions 7 and 8. The other universities are Montana State
University, and the Universities of Iowa, Missouri, Montana,
Nebraska, and Utah. All of these states are located in Region-Pair
7/8, as are Colorado, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. The Center was
established in February 1989 to conduct research pertaining to the
identification, treatment, and reduction of hazardous substances
resulting from agriculture, forestry/ mining, mineral processing,
and other activities of local interest.
The Center is headed by Dr. Larry E. Erickson, Professor of
Chemical Engineering at KSU. Dr. Erickson is responsible for
coordinating all of the Center's activities. He is assisted
primarily by Dr. Richard Hayter, of KSU's Engineering Cooperative
Extension Service, who oversees the conduct of the Center's
training and technology transfer program. The Center benefits from
guidance supplied by a 15 person Science Advisory Committee which
meets twice a year and a 24 person Training and Technology Transfer
Advisory Committee which meets annually.
Researchers from several specialties are interacting in the
Center, bringing a diversity of perspectives to address the complex
problems associated with hazardous substances. Table 1 provides
a list of key personnel from each participating institution.
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Table it
Kansas State Univ.
B.R. Biles
L. Erickson
L.T. Fan
L.A. Glasgow
R.B. Hayter
J.R. Schlup
w.P. Wa1awender
University of Missouri
Bajpai
Banerj i
Clevenger
Harbourt
Hinderberger
R.K.
S.K.
T.E.
C.O.
E.J.
S. Kapila
T.J. O'Keefe
D.S. Viswanath
J.L. Watson
A.F. Yanders
University of Montana
No researchers this round
Key Personnel in the center
Montana state
W.G. Characklis
F.D. Culver
A.B. Cunningham
W.L. Jones
R.S. Hunter
University of Iowa
D.T. Gibson
B.C. Kross
G.F. Parkin
J.L. Schnoor
University of Nebraska
M.W. Gilliland
G.B. Keefer
W.E. Kelly
University of Utah
S. Ghosh
Region-Pair 7/8 has a curious diversity of interests,
resulting from the grouping of mineral-rich states, such as
Colorado and Utah, with the states of the great plains and
chaparral, whose economic foundations rest on agriculture and
animal husbandry. The Center has defined its original mission in
terms of these wide-ranging activities and has undertaken research
in the following areas, listed in order of their current priority
within the region-pair:
1. Studies of soil and water contamination by heavy metals such
as cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, and zinc associated with
mining wastes and other industrial activities.
2. Research on groundwater contamination from a variety of
souro«*. Wood preservatives including pentachlorophenol and
creosote, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, carbon
tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, vinyl chloride, and other
chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs), and dioxin have been identified as priority substances
contaminating groundwater. Numerous pesticides have been
identified to be hazardous substances; the fate and transport
of pesticides are of particular interest because of the
agricultural orientation of Regions 7 and 8. A general need
exists for research to develop treatment technologies to clean
up contaminated soil.
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3. Development of incineration, biodegradation, and immobili-
zation technology. Research is needed for rendering wastes
nonhazardous before they are returned to the environment.
4. Development of simplified and inexpensive methods for
analyzing contaminated soil.
5. Hazardous waste minimization. This is a desirable long term
goal.
6. Research on hazardous substance release to the atmosphere at
waste sites.
7. Determination of the safe concentration levels of hazardous
substances in soils and in water.
The diversity of the region-pair's interests and the large
geographic area represented are further reflected in the training
and technology transfer program currently being supported by the
Center. Much of the Center's efforts are dedicated to the support
of activities which can reach large audiences with a minimum of
resources. For instance, the Center is collecting audio and video
training materials relating to hazardous substances and making
these materials available for loan, three issues of the newsletter
"HazTech Transfer" have been disseminated throughout the region-
pair, an information clearinghouse has been established, and
general public education efforts are underway. These activities,
augmented by some carefully selected special audience functions,
appear to provide the most effective means of disseminating
necessary technical information across this large and varied area.
The Center's base support comes from EPA. However, the
participating schools have all made substantial contributions as
well. It is hoped that private industry and other public sector
organizations will find the center concept attractive and will
contribute funds in the future. The Center's first-year funding
is summarized in Table 2.
Table 2i Center Budget
FDMDIMQ SOURCES PY 1989 FUNDS
SPA: Centers Program $2,000,000
Private Sector 10,000
Consortium 1.530.068
TOTAL $3,540,068
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CENTER DIRECTOR'S REPORT
The establishment of the Center has provided a focal point for
hazardous substances research, training, and technology transfer
in Federal Regions 7 and 8. A long term goal is to serve the needs
of the 10-state area using as many of the available resources
within the region-pair as possible. Through personal visits, the
newsletter, telephone calls, and direct mailings, efforts have been
made to emphasize inclusiveness and the idea of "working together
for a better environment." Visits have been made to all of the
consortium universities, several other universities, the EPA
regional offices, other State and Federal offices, and a variety
of professional gatherings and conferences have been sponsored and
atended.
The research and technology transfer projects currently
underway were selected prior to the award of the center, based on
our understanding of the priorities within the region-pair, plus
the particular strengths brought to the Center by the participating
universities. As the Center grows, it can be assumed that its
priorities will change. The advisory committees will be most
valuable in guiding the Center in selecting research and technology
transfer areas to pursue.
One other aim for the Center is to use the resources provided
by the EPA-supported Hazardous Substance Research Center to solicit
support for academic environmental research from other Federal
agencies, states, and private industry. The Center has the
potential to be a powerful magnet for attracting such support.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 1989
Stabilization and Solidification of Wastes
One of the research projects in support of mining, mineral
processing, and heavy metal wastes is an experimental study of
stabilization/solidification of hazardous wastes. Statistically
designed experiments are being carried out on arsenic-containing
wastes and baghouse dust from a steel plant. There is a critical
need for such work because it is possibly the only feasible
technique for treating heavy metals. These wastes are being
immobilized using appropriate pozzolanic materials, such as fly ash
and Portland cement, and solidification-aiding reagents. An
important objective of this research is to identify conditions that
reduce the leaching rate of the hazardous substances to an
acceptable level. The process must be economically feasible, also.
This technology has advanced to the point that it may be employed
in field applications following successful laboratory studies to
identify the optimal conditions for immobilization of the waste.
The investigators presented a paper on their research at the 1989
Conference on Hazardous Waste Research held at Kansas State
University.
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An enzymatic ozonation process to render hazardous substances
nonhazardous has been investigated and shown to have considerable
potential as a water treatment method for rural water supplies that
are contaminated with low levels of pesticides. Cost effective
methods to treat rural water supplies are extremely important in
Regions 7 and 8 because many farm families depend on their own
wells for their drinking water and for agricultural uses. The
results presented in the master's thesis of Lee Hunter Odell
indicate that the extent of oxidation is dependent upon the
concentration of ozone and the contact time between the ozone and
the pesticide. The process appears to eliminate the functional
groups on pesticides such as atrizine and alachlor. The
concentration of the active pesticide can be reduced to values
below the health advisory level. A granular activated carbon bed
may be used to adsorb refractory organic compounds which remain
after the ozonation. These results are beneficial to those
designing and operating ozonation water treatment processes.
Training and Technology Transfer
The University of Missouri has developed and presented its
three-day training course "Introduction to Hazardous Substance
Management." The course, which is designed for individuals
responsible for hazardous waste management programs, was attended
by a near capacity audience of approximately 60 participants.
Those who participated offered highly favorable written evaluations
at the end of the course. The course is being offered in Sioux
Falls, South Dakota in November; Lincoln, Nebraska in December;
Denver, Colorado in January; Kansas City, Kansas in February; and
Helena, Montana in March, 1990. The course assists employers and
employees in meeting Resouce Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training
requirements.
The two-day Conference on Hazardous Waste Research was held
May 23 and 24, 1989. More than 90 papers were presented by
researchers from academia, industry, and government, and over 200
representatives attended. The proceedings of the conference are
being published. The conference was appreciated by all of the
attendees as a valuable opportunity for the exchange of
information.
The newsletter, "HazTech Transfer", is distributed without
charge to appropriate professionals in Regions 7 and 8, and it has
been well received. Three issues have been published. The
newsletter is useful because professionals from several different
disciplines are involved in hazardous substance research,
technology, and management and there is no professional
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organization which reaches all of these individuals. The
newsletter is also circulated to EPA's four other hazardous
substance research centers, and others as appropriate.
Investigator
Research
Fan
Clevenger
Keefer
Ghosh
Parkin
Erickson
Banerj i
Characklis
Yanders
Schnoor
Glasgow
Walawender
Viswanath
SUMMARY OF ONGOING PROJECTS
Title
Experimental Study of stabilization/
Solidification of Hazardous Substances
Reclamation of Metal- and Mining-Contaminated
Superfund Sites Using Sewage/Fly Ash Amendments
Metal Recovery and Reuse Using an Integrated
Vermiculite Ion Exchange-Acid Recovery System
Removal of Heavy Metals from Hazardous Wastes
by Protein Complexation for Their Ultimate
Recovery and Reuse
Feasibility of In-Situ Anaerobic Bioreclamation
of Mixtures of Toxic Chemicals
Development
Technology
of In-.Situ Biodegradation
Migration and Biodegradation
Pentachlorophenol in Soil Environment
of
Microbial Processes in Groundwater Formations
Time Dependent Movement of Dioxin and Related
Compounds in Soil
Modeling Dissolved Oxygen, Nitrate, and
Pesticide Contamination in the Subsurface
Environment
Vadose Zone Decontamination by Air Injection
Thermochemical Treatment of Hazardous Wastes
Development, Characterization, and Evaluation
of Adsorbent Materials for Waste Streams
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Fan Computer-Aided Design and Control of Systems
for Treatment of Hazardous Waste and
Minimization of Waste Products
Hunter Computer Method to Estimate Safe Level Water
Quality Concentrations for Organic Chemicals
Kross Removal of Nitrogenous Pesticides from Rural
Well Water Supplies by Enzymatic Ozonation
Process
O'Keefe Characterization and Treatment of Hazardous
Materials from Metal/Mineral Processing Wastes
Schlup Adsorption of Hazardous Substances onto Soil
Constituents
Training and Technology Transfer
Harbourt Introduction to Hazardous Substance Management
Gilliland Hazardous Waste Management in Rural States
Hayter Audio and Video Training
Hayter Newsletter
Hayter Electronic Bulletin Board
Hayter Seminar Program
Hayter HSRC Contribution Repository and Information
Clearinghouse
Hayter Conferences
Hayter Public Education
Biles Technology Data Base
RESEARCH PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Experimental Study of Stabilisation/Solidification of Hazardous
Wastes: L.T. Fan, Kansas State University
Goal: The objectives of this research are to determine
experimentally the feasibility and suitability of
solidification/stabilization for typical and prevailing hazardous
wastes and to establish extensive knowledge and data bases
necessary for optimal treatment of such wastes.
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Rational*; For many heavy metals and mine tailings, stabilization/
solidification is the only economically feasible management
alternative. A better understanding of the immobilization of
hazardous substances in soils is imporant for commercial products
and waste management. Various factors affect the immobilizing
mechanism of stabilization/solidification of hazardous wastes.
These include the type and amount of pozzolanic materials and
solidification-aiding reagents, and the characteristics of the
wastes. To identify environmentally acceptable and economically
feasible stabilization/solidification techniques for treating
organic and inorganic hazardous wastes generated in EPA Regions 7
and 8, it is necessary to carry out a series of statistically
designed experiments for each of these wastes.
Approachi Statistically designed experiments are being conducted
for three diverse types of wastes. The leachability and
compressive strength of the solidified samples are being measured.
Status: Experimental work has been completed on three specific
studies, a low-level radioactive liquid waste, an arsenic
containing waste, and a baghouse dust waste from a steel plant.
Manuscripts describing the results are being prepared for two of
the studies. The results from the third study have been presented
and are to be published in the Proceedings of the Conference on
Hazardous Waste Research.
Reclamation of Metal and Mining Contaminated Superfund sites Using
Sewage Sludge/Fly Ash Amendment: T.E. Clevenger and E.J.
Hinderberger, University of Missouri (Columbia and Environmental
Trace Substances Research Center)
Goal: The goal of this project is to investigate the utility of
sewage sludge/fly ash mixtures in the reclamation of a metal
contaminated Superfund site.
Rationale: Through the use of a mixture of sludge and fly ash, one
can increase the organic content of the soil. As a result, plant
cover can be established, the pH is increased, and the mobility and
availability of the metals is controlled.
Approach! An abandoned lead tailings pile in Desloge, MO, has been
selected for the study site. Different ratios of sewage sludge and
fly ash will be tested with different herbaceous species. Total
metal analysis and speciation methods are being used to evaluate
the potential for mobilization of the metals. Sewage sludge and
fly ash amendments are being evaluated as cover materials in column
studies.
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Preliminary experimental work indicates that the
predominant forms of lead in the tailings are oxide and sulfide.
Thirty-six columns have been constructed and the column studies
have begun.
Metal Recovery and Reuse Using an Integrated Vermioulite Ion
Exchange-Acid Recovery Bysteas G.B. Keefer, University of
Nebraska-Lincoln
The goal of this research is to evaluate and optimize a
system for zinc recovery and reuse from plating wastewaters or
contaminated groundwater.
Rationale i The metal plating process currently creates large
quantities of metal -contaminated waste (pickle liquor) . This
wastewater is commonly treated by neutralization resulting in the
production of metal laden waste sludges. The proposed research
would evaluate a system for metal recovery for reuse in the plating
process while producing a nonhazardous liquid waste stream and a
spent vermiculite which could also be disposed as a nonhazardous
material.
Approach i A system which uses a multiple countercurrent
vermiculite ion exchange column treatment scheme is being developed
to treat zine plating wastewaters or zinc contaminated
groundwaters . Three columns are used in series, with the pH of the
influent wastewater to each being adjusted progressively higher to
aid in the zinc removal process. In addition, as the columns
become expended on the front end of the system, they have been
exposed to the lowest system pH. This pH adjustment scheme,
therefore, aids in both the metal removal process and in the acid
recovery of the zinc by minimizing the acid requirement. Once the
columns are exhausted, they are acid leached for zinc recovery.
Status i The results of a series of batch experiments show that the
exchange capacity increases as the pH is increased. Confined fixed
bed ion exchange columns gave better results than columns which
were allowed to expand under normal flow conditions. A paper was
presented at the Nebraska APWA/NWPCA/AWWA Conference, November 9,
1989.
Removal of Heavy Metals from Hazardous wastes by Protein
Complexities for Their Ultimate Recovery and Reuses S.Ghosh,
University of Utah
goal i The objectives of the research are to develop a basic
understanding of the mechanism, kinetics, and parametric dependence
of complexation of heavy metals with microbial protein, and
ultimately to develop an innovative continuous-flow process to
remove these potentially hazardous elements from aqueous wastes for
subsequent recovery and reuse.
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Rationale; It is well known that many strains of bacteria, yeast,
and mold are resistant to high concentrations of heavy metals which
could be removed from the aqueous environment by extracellular or
intracellular uptake. The metals may bind by interacting with the
anionic sites at the hydrophilic surface of the outer membrane of
a microbial cell. Extracellular uptake is effected by physical
entrapment by the polysaccharide matrix outside of the cell wall,
adsorption, ion exchange, chelation, and complexation by ligand
formation. Metals also form complexes with small intracellular
globular proteins, the syntheses of which are induced by the metals
themselves. Protein complexation could account for the uptake of
up to several milligrams of metal per gram of dry cell mass and the
organisms may be tolerant to heavy metals concentrations of up to
100 g/1. Should the process prove feasible, it would provide an
economical and natural way to remove and reuse toxic heavy metals.
Approach; In the initial phase of the research, experimental work
is being conducted to study the effects of metal and protein
concentrations, growth phases, culture temperature and pH, and
electrode potential on the kinetics and efficiencies of
intracellular and extracellular uptake of metals. Mutual
inhibition or stimulation of the uptake of some metals by the
antagonistic and synergistic actions of others will be studied.
Both aerobic and anaerobic cultures will be investigated.
In the second phase of the project, a continuous-flow process
scheme involving a bioreactor harboring a protein filter (biotrap)
and a metal extractor will be developed to demonstrate the concept
of cyclical uptake, concentration and recovery of heavy metals.
The optimum bioreactor and extractor designs and operating
conditions will be delineated by conducting bench-scale runs.
status: A review of the literature was conducted. Aerobic and
anaerobic chemostats have been designed, fabricated, and installed.
Three metal uptake runs have been conducted using aerobic batch
reactors.
Feasibility of In-8itu Anaerobic Bioreclamation of Mixtures of
Toxic Cheaicalss G.F. Parkin and D.T. Gibson, University of Iowa
Goal: The goal of this research is to assess the impact of
mixtures of toxic chemicals on the biotransformation of individual
organics, with toxic organic concentrations in the range of 1 to
100 mg/liter. The feasibility of using genetically engineered
bacteria to degrade selected organics in a laboratory activated
sludge system is being investigated.
Rationale: Recent research has shown that chlorinated aliphatic
compounds, such as trichloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride are
degraded under anaerobic conditions. Such conditions are likely
to exist at a wide variety of Superfund sites. At the present
time, very little is known about the biodegradation of mixtures of
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these and related compounds in the concentration ranges likely to
be found at or near Superfund sites (1-100 mg/1) . In order to
assess the feasibility of using bioreclamation techniques,
information concerning the anaerobic biotransformation of mixtures
of these compounds is required. Such information will be useful
in determining the potential for using anaerobic biological
processes for remediating contaminated soils and groundwaters .
Approach: Anaerobic biofilm reactors with glass beads or gravel
are being used to investigate the biodegradation of chloroform,
methylene chloride, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane alone and in
combination. Acetate is provided as a carbon and energy source.
status x Several experiments have been completed. The results
indicate that biodegradation processes are dependent upon the mix
of chemical compounds which are present. For example, methylene
chloride was degraded more completely when fed in combination with
chloroform and 1,1,1-trichloroethane with acetate as a carbon and
energy source compared to experiments in which methylene chloride
and acetate were fed together.
Development of In-Situ Biodegradation Technology: L.E. Erickson
and L.T. Fan, Kansas State University
Goal : The goal of this research is to conduct an investigation of
in-situ biodegradation both through experimentation and through
model-based simulation.
Rationale: In-situ bioremediation has many potential applications.
However, a better understanding of the technology is desirable for
many field applications. Laboratory experiments and a model-based
simulation are being used to generate new knowledge. The
development of methods for supplying oxygen and maintaining optimal
water activity for aerobic biodegradation in the vadose zone are
of particular interest.
Approach: Microcosm studies are being conducted with various
levels of soil moisture to study the effects of soil moisture and
oxygen transfer limitation on biodegradation rate. Soil columns
will be investigated with air supplied to the vadose zone of the
column. Mathematical models of bioremediation in the three-phase
environment of the vadose zone are being formulated.
status: Modeling and simulation of in-sitU bioremediation in the
saturated zone was conducted by Jianchu Wu under the principal
investigator's guidance. The results show that the rate of
biodegradation may be limited not only by insufficient oxygen
supply, but also by transport resistance to the contaminant
(substrate) desorption. The simulation of the operation involving
recycle of unreacted contaminants indicates that biodegradation
takes place mainly in the upper zone of the bed. Additional
research is in progress.
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Migration and Biodegradation of Pentachlorophenol in Soil
Environments S.K. Banerji and R.K. Bajpai, University of Missouri-
Columbia
Goals; The objectives are to determine the migration rate of
pentachlorophenol (PCP) and other additives used in wood
preservation and to evaluate the feasibility of above-ground and
in-situ biodegradation of PCP containing leachate under laboratory
and field conditions.
Rationale: Wood preservatives are used extensively in Regions 7
and 8. Research on the migration and biodegradation of
pentachlorophenol will be useful in developing plans to clean sites
which have been affected by wood preservative wastes containing
pentachlorophenol.
Approach; Laboratory studies will be conducted to determine the
migration of PCP formulations used in wood preservation. The
amount of vaporization and photodegradation of the components will
also be evaluated. Later, lysimeter field studies will be
conducted to verify the laboratory results.
Status; The experimental work is underway.
Microbial Processes in Groundvater Formations: W.G. Characklis,
A.B. Cunningham, and W.L. Jones, Montana State University
Goal; The goal of the research is to improve the rate and
efficiency of in-situ microbial degradation of subsurface
contaminants through an improved understanding of processes which
govern transport, attachment, growth, and activity of
microorganisms in porous media.
Rationale; Subsurface biofilm growth is complicated by the nature
of fluid and nutrient transport which, in a porous medium, occurs
along tortuous flow paths of various dimension and geometry. The
wide distribution of pore velocities introduces considerable
variation in the microbial processes of desorption, attachment, and
detachment. An understanding of cause and effect relationships
which influence these and other biofilm processes is essential in
order to describe net subsurface biofilm accumulation.
Accumulation of biofilm in porous media is of fundamental
importance because it governs the potential for: (1) in-situ
biodegradation of groundwater contaminants and (2) subsurface
biofouling, such as, reduction of permeability due to biomass
plugging of pore space—both of which are crucial considerations
in the design of subsurface biodegradation systems.
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ApproachI The project will be carried out through a carefully
designed program of laboratory experimentation. Microbial
transport and activity will be investigated in media containing
pentachlorophenol. Image analysis will be used to monitor
microbial processes including transport rates, adsorption/
desorption, growth, and filtration.
Status: The results show that the accumulation of biofilm follows
an "S" shaped progression with time and ultimately reaches a quasi-
stable maximum thickness. The presence of extensive biofilm
accumulation in porous media results in decreased porosity and
permeability and an increased hydrodynamic dispersion coefficient.
A variety of microorganisms are capable of growth on penta-
chlorophenol; however, a significant lag phase may precede
subsequent good removal rates. Two papers are included in the
Proceedings of the Conference on Hazardous Waste Research.
Tim* Dependent Movement of Dioxin and Related Compounds in Soil:
A.F. Yanders and S. Kapila, University of Missouri Environmental
Trace Substances Research Center
Goal: The objective is to study the rate of migration of loss of
2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in soil at a
contaminated site.
Rationale! This study will establish parameters for the rate of
migration and loss of TCDD and similar compounds in soil which will
be important in determining the most appropriate cleanup procedures
to be used at the various sites in Missouri and comparable
situations elsewhere.
Approach; The degree of translocation and loss of TCDD in
contaminated soil will be determined at Times Beach, MO, the
state's most extensively contaminated site, by measuring the
concentration profiles of TCDD in experimental plots and soil
columns located at the experimental site and in the laboratory.
Status: The results indicate that there has been practically no
volatilization/photolysis loss of TCDD from experimental plots at
Times Beach. Experiments are underway to delineate the role of co-
contaminant* on partition behavior. The results obtained so far
indicate that apparent solubilization at the contaminated sites can
be attributed to the colloidal suspensions of the co-contaminants.
Modeling Dissolved Oxygen, Nitrate and Pesticide Contamination in
the Subsurface Environment: J.L. Schnoor and G.F. Parkin,
University of Iowa
Goal: There are three objectives: (1) to develop better
mathematical model formulations for the fate and transport of
pesticides in the unsaturated zone and saturated groundwater, (2)
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to perform field and laboratory experiments on the fate and
transport of alachlor and atrazine to test model formulations, and
(3) to assess the effects of best management practices.
Rationalei Both models and field studies are necessary to improve
our ability to estimate toxic organic concentrations in groundwater
using different agricultural management practices. Better kinetic
formulations that can be used in models are to be developed in this
work. These will be used to assess the effects of best management
practices on the fate and transport of pesticides.
Approach: Experiments are being conducted at an instrumented field
plot site. Three types of sites will be examined, one barren
ground, one planted with corn, and one covered with poplar trees.
The quantitative mass balance is based on measurements in the
plants, soil, and groundwater. The data will be used to test the
model formulations.
Statusi The results of the first field season show that alachlor
is more mobile than atrazine; it showed greater runoff rates and
percolation to the groundwater, but it also disappeared at a more
rapid rate than atrazine. Atrazine was tightly bound to the soil,
especially in the small plot planted in popular trees.
Vadose Zone Decontamination by Air Injection: L.A. Glasgow, Kansas
State University
Qoalt The goal of this research is to provide a preliminary design
protocol that can be employed when air stripping is contemplated
as a remedial measure.
Rationale: The efficiency of and coverage provided by air
injection/venting have not been reliably characterized. It is
necessary to develop design methods that can be used to employ air
injection/venting processes efficiently and economically to remove
volatile contaminants.
Approach: A simple computer code is being developed that can be
used to calculate gas flow patterns obtained with various venting
arrangement*. Numerical simulation is being used to investigate
the effect* of injection and withdrawal well placements.
statust Thai initial numerical results show that in cases where
withdrawal/suction is applied only at the surface, the effective
treatment area is confined to a small region (a three meter radius)
in the vicinity of the injection well. Preliminary calculations
indicate properly located withdrawal wells can maintain high rates
of mass transfer over larger areas.
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Tnermochemioal Treatment of Hazardous Wastest w.p. Walawender and
L.T. Fan, Kansas stats Univsrsity
2211» Ths goals ars to obtain experimental performance data with
a bench-scale incinerator for ths thsnnal destruction of hazardous
substances and to develop models for the design and operation of
hazardous substance incineration systems.
Rationalei This research is designed to provide extensive
information on the influence of operating conditions on the
performance of hazardous waste incinerators. The results should
provide a basis for development of models for the design and
effective operation of hazardous waste incineration systems.
Approachi A bench-scale incinerator has been designed and
constructed for the investigation. Experiments are being conducted
with model chlorinated compounds.
status: The results of preliminary experiments using carbon
tetrachloride with hexane as liquid carrier show that effective
destruction was achieved with chlorine loadings up to 33% with low
excess air. Operating temperatures were typically around 2000°F
under near stoichiometric conditions.
Development, Characterization, and Evaluation of Adsorbent
Materials for Treatment of Waste 8treamst D.S. Viswanath, S.
Kapila, and T.E. Clevenger, University of Missouri (Columbia and
Environmental Trace Substances Research Center)
Qoali The objectives of the project are to investigate the use of
adsorbent materials, such as surface modified resin and covalently
bonded sulfurated siloxanes, for effective removal of extremely
toxic substances from waste streams and to study the effective
regeneration (desorption) of adsorbents with supercritical fluid
extraction.
Rationale! Adsorption is commonly used for the removal of
hazardous organic* from waste streams. Adsorbents that can be
regenerated using supercritical fluids may provide significant cost
and efficiency advantages. The methods may also have analytical
chemistry applications.
Approacht Experiments have been carried out to determine the
efficacy of desorption/regeneration of bonded alkyl siloxane
adsorbents with supercritical carbon dioxide. Substances desorbed
using supercritical carbon dioxide have been analyzed
chromatographically. Sensitivities below parts per trillion can
be measured with this method.
statust The experiments were started in March 1989. Covalently
bonded sulfoxide stationary phase adsorbents have been prepared.
The experiments on the regeneration of carbon-based adsorbents are
underway.
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Computer-Aided Design and Control of Systems for Treatment of
Hazardous Waste and Minimization of Waste Production: L.T. Fan,
Kansas State University
Goal: The goal is to develop intelligent computer-based process
design and control tools for creating optimal systems for the
treatment of hazardous wastes and the minimization of waste
production.
Rationale: Improvements in process design and control methods
which incorporate waste minimization as an integral part of the
synthesis process are needed to achieve pollution prevention and
waste reduction objectives. This study will yield a set of
rudimentary heuristics for design and operation of hazardous waste
treatment systems and process plants with minimal waste production.
Approach: A significant portion of the research effort will be
directed towards the identification of the important
characteristics of process systems for treating hazardous wastes
and the minimization of waste production. Specifically, the
investigation will focus on the various processing schemes, design
guidelines, safety regulations, and economic aspects of waste
treatment and disposal. The integration of process design and
control in the synthesis of processes is part of the investigation.
Status: Three specific studies are in progress. These include the
synthesis of mass exchanger networks, the application of neural
networks to hazardous waste processing, and the application of an
artificial intelligence approach to the design of a process with
a high degree of structural controllability. Papers were presented
at the 3rd Oklahoma Symposium on Artificial Intelligence in Tulsa
and at the 1989 Annual Meeting of the American Institute of
Chemical Engineers in San Francisco.
Computer Method to Estimate Safe Level Water Quality Concentrations
for Organic Chemicals: R.S. Hunter and F.D. Culver, Montana State
University
Goals: The objective is to design and implement a microcomputer
prototype system capable of estimating advisory concentrations and
water quality criteria for organic chemicals.
Rationalei EPA has established ambient National Water Quality
Criteria for only about 73 toxic organic chemicals. Meanwhile,
thousands of other chemicals, mostly organic chemicals, have no
established criteria or safe level estimates.
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Approacht Two concentration levels are necessary to estimate Water
Quality Criteria for a chemical: the criterion Maximum
Concentration (CMC) and the Criterion Continuous Concentration
(CCC). The QSAR System, developed by the U.S. EPA and Montana
State University, is being enhanced to give approximations or
estimates for CMC and CCC for organic chemicals. The QSAR system
contains EPA's AQUIRE database compilation of 60,000 aquatic
toxicity test results for 2,800 organic chemicals. A modified QSAR
system using these test results, guided by EPA guidelines and
methods, would estimate CMC and CCC values for the chemical. The
proposed system, besides providing values, would summarize those
tests and arrive at CMC and CCC estimates.
Status: The necessary software is being developed. The basic
requirements to estimate ambient aquatic life advisory
concentrations have been identified.
Removal of Nitrogenous Pesticides from Rural Well-Water Supplies
by Enzymatic Ozonation Process: B.C. Kross, University of Iowa
Goal: The goal of this study is to determine the mechanisms by
which nitrogenous pesticides are removed from well water using an
enzymatic ozonation process.
Rationale; This research will contribute needed information for
the development of a point-of-use water treatment system to remove
pesticides from well water. The need for inexpensive, effective
point-of-use water treatment systems for rural water supplies is
critical. Rural residents with shallow wells who have herbicide
contamination problems are most likely to use this technology.
Approach: A pilot-scale enzymatic ozonation process will be built
and tested. Whenever possible, commercially available components
such as the ozone generator, filters, and reaction chambers will
be used in the process.
Status: Results of preliminary work indicate that ozonation in
association with the hydrogen peroxide radical renders atrazine and
alachlor more hydrophilic and eliminates the functional groups for
the two pesticides.
The Characterization and Treatment of Hazardous Materials from
Metal/Mineral Processing Wastes: T.J. O'Keefe and J.L. Watson,
University of Missouri-Rolla
Goal: The objective of the research is to develop processing
procedures to treat waste oxides generated by the mining and metals
industry.
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Rational*: A major problem associated with physical and chemical
processing operations involving metals and minerals is the
treatment of waste streams. This research is directed toward
developing a generic approach to the treatment of hazardous waste
products from the mineral industry.
Approach: The slag generated by a Missouri lead smelter (Doe Run
Company) has been selected for investigation. This slag will be
processed in a small furnace to obtain a non-hazardous residue and
an oxide fume containing zinc, cadmium, and lead. The oxide fume
will be used as a feed to an electrolytic plant. Characterization
and processing feasibility tests are being conducted.
Status: The experimental research is underway. A small furnace
run on the slag was made. The results were quite successful. It
may be possible to process the oxide fume economically in an
existing metal processing facility.
Adsorption of Hazardous Substances onto Soil Constituents: J.R.
Schlup, Kansas State University
Goal: The objective of the research is to investigate adsorbate-
adsorbent interactions between inorganic solids representative of
soil constituents and hazardous organic compounds.
Rationale: Very little information is available on adsorbate-
adsorbent interactions involving hazardous organic compounds and
soil constituents; however, such knowledge is essential for
modeling and design of remediation processes.
Approach; Fourier transform infrared photoacoustic spectroscopy
is being used as the detection scheme for the adsorbed species.
The phenanthrene/silica system has been studied to test the ability
of the instrument to observe polynuclear aromatic compounds
adsorbed onto solids. The adsorption of naphthalene onto alumina
is being investigated.
Status: The results show that photoacoustic spectroscopy can
provide Fourier transform infrared spectra of polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons adsorbed onto model soil constituents. Adsorption
isotherms are being obtained for polynuclear aromatic compounds
adsorbed onto several soil constituents.
Training and Technology Transfer
Introduction to Hazardous Substance Management: C.O. Harbourt,
University of Missouri-Columbia
Goal: The goal is to provide the knowledge necessary for
participants to properly store, treat, and dispose of hazardous
materials produced or used by regulated facilities under 40 CRF
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Parts 264 and 265. In addition, the participants receive training
which can be applied toward the requirements of RCRA and OSHA for
employers and employees engaged in operations involving hazardous
materials.
RfrtJpnalf« Regulated industries need continuing education to
satisfy state and federal requirements in the management of
hazardous materials with the ultimate goal of reducing or
eliminating both short and long term negative effects on the
environment. This training is needed by a broad range of
professionals including engineers, chemists, managers of affected
facilities, public officials, owners and operators of hazardous
waste facilities, generators, and transporters. The course was the
result of the promulgation of requirements for training in response
to regulations regarding hazardous materials.
Approach: The course evolved over eight years from a five-day
annual institute presented by the University of Missouri-Columbia
Engineering Extension. The training is provided over a three day
period in a classroom setting using a variety of instructional
media, and experts on each facet of the program. The faculty
include a core group of professors and staff from the university
who are active in hazardous waste management research and
applications as well as specialists drawn from the geographic area
of each training site who are experts on local requirements and
technology which affect the regulated community in the area.
Status: The first session was conducted on the University of
Missouri-Columbia campus. Fifty-seven individuals participated in
the workshop. The second site was in Sioux Falls, South Dakota,
where ten individuals attended. Although small in number, the
South Dakota participants included an excellent mist of individuals
who will have a positive impact on the proper management of
hazardous substance. They included consulting engineers, state
regulated facility managers, and university engineering faculty.
Future site include Lincoln, NE; Denver, CO; Kansas City. KS; and
Helena, MT.
Hazardous Wast* Management in Rural States: M.w. Gilliland and
W.E. Kelly, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Goal: The objective is to provide sufficient knowledge to
participants to assure that hazardous materials unique to the rural
areas of the great plains and mountain states are properly managed.
Rationale: Many of the hazardous substances encountered by the
rural areas of the midwest include wastes from agriculture and
mining industries. The individuals who handle the materials may
not have sufficient technical knowledge to manage hazardous wastes
properly. In addition, they represent a geographically dispersed
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population. This program provides the needed information in a
delivery format to meet their needs and to assure proper disposal
and management of the hazardous substance.
Approach! The delivery mechanism will use video tapes and will
expand on the experience of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln
in developing and delivering live, two-way interactive TV for
hazardous waste management for professionals. Three video tapes
are presently under development. The content of the training
materials was developed after communication with the rural states
to determine their specific needs and topics that should be
included to meet those needs. It was determined that three video
tapes could best respond to the needs identified.
The first tape deals with a basic understanding of hazardous
materials and is entitled "Hazardous Waste: What It Is, Why We
Have It, and Who is Regulated." The second deals with hazardous
materials in rural areas and is entitled "What are the Sources of
Hazardous Waste in Rural Areas, and What are the Management
Problems in these Areas?" The third deals with problems associated
with use and disposal and is entitled "What are the Impacts of
Improper Use and Disposal of Hazardous Waste." Consideration is
being given to development of a fourth tape on hazardous waste
management strategies.
status: Contacts have been made with states having needs unique
to the rural areas for program content and delivery opportunities.
These states have provided an individual to serve on a review team
as the tapes are developed to assure that they meet the needs of
each state. The information received plus that which presently
exists at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln formed the basis
for scripts for the tapes. The three scripts are presently out for
review. Production of the tapes will soon be underway. The first
three tapes when completed will be distributed to the states in the
two regions for use through their individual delivery networks such
as those of state environmental agencies, extension services and
trade organizations.
Audio and Video Training: R.B. Hayter, Kansas State University
Goalsi The goal is to provide information needed by those
developing new technology in the minimization, management, and
disposal of hazardous materials and those generating the materials
in a format that is timely, accessible given the geographic
distribution of those involved, and effective in transferring new
information.
Rationalet The effective transfer of new technology is inhibited
by the distances and time of travel previously required in
traditional on-site delivery formats. Although print media will
continue to serve a critical role in technology transfer,
experience has demonstrated that electronic delivery is an
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effactive tool in transferring information. Video and audio
programming can include simple teleconferencing between researchers
to discuss research results, capturing presentations before live
audiences, transmitting live satellite presentations with
interactive audio, or entire non-credit courses. Opportunities for
inexpensive training occur when materials developed at other
locations are made available at reasonable cost. This project
allows the Center to take advantage of these opportunities.
Industry and government use video tapes extensively for training.
Approacht Audio and video materials are being produced and
collected from a variety of sources and made available through the
Center and the Kansas State University library. For example,
approximately 20 people participated in the live teleconference
"Ask the Experts: 2nd Annual Hazardous Materials Teleconference"
which originated at Oklahoma State University; others have watched
the video tape. The Training and Technology Transfer Advisory
Committee will assist in identifying special needs for technology
transfer that could be delivered electronically. Where cost can
be justified, Kansas state University or another participating
school will use their satellite transmissin capabilities for video
conferencing. Uplinking from the great plains states has the
advantage that a single transmissin is all that is required for
reception throghout North America. In addition to training
specifically designed for electronic delivery, opportunities for
taping other programs will regularly be reviewed. This may be a
single lecture or an entire conference. Selection will be based
on needs identified by the advisory committee or judgment of the
Center Director as the cost to produce these tapes is quite
economical. The availability of the tapes will be promoted through
the Center's newsletter and will be maintained on file in the
Center's special collection in the KSU library.
statust The collection of audio and video materials includes video
tapes from a hazardous waste minimization short course, training
for automotive maintenance hazardous waste managers, and a modeling
study of organic vapor releases and site remediation. Materials
are being made available through the Kansas State University
library. Audio conferencing has already successfully been used to
communicate between both the Science Advisory Committee and the
Training and Technology Transfer Advisor Committee. This low cost
method of inetant communication between members of the committees
proved effective and economical. Some of the tapes will be used
during the coming term for students both on campus and remote from
the university. A tape produced in Iowa was given to the Center
for cataloging and distribution, and various other tapes have been
recored and preserved. These acquisitions are too recent for
extensive demand. However, their availability has been announced
in the Center's newsletter, and the materials are being used.
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Newsletters R.B. Hayter, Kansas State University
Goal: The objective is to provide useful information to hazardous
substance professionals who are involved in research, management,
and technology transfer.
Rationalet No single professional society serves all those working
with hazardous substances. The newsletter provides a mechanism for
the Center to communicate useful information within the region-
pair.
Approacht A newsletter, HazTech Transfer, is published quarterly
and distributed without charge to professionals in Regions 7 and
8. It is distributed to professionals who are actively involved
in the development of new technology or who have need for applying
that technology. Included in the distribution of approximately
3000 are state and federal regulatory agencies, researchers and
educators, generators of hazardous materials, and consultants.
HazTecfr Transfer contains announcements of training
opportunities, descriptions of research, calendars of meetings and
other events, and accomplishments of the Center. In addition, the
newsletter lists recent acquisitions of the Center's special
library collection, calls for proposals, and announcements of major
events sponsored by the Center such as the annual research
conference.
status: Three issues have been published; April, July, and
October. To date, information has been contributed by Missouri,
Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Electronic Bulletin Board: R.B. Hayter, Kansas State University
Goal; The goal is to make important information on conferences,
short courses, and other Center activities available through an
electronic bulletin board.
Rational*; The electronic bulletin board provides a mechanism for
inexpensive communication between two individuals or all the
Center's associates. It is typically less costly to post
information that need not be interactive as in a traditional phone
communication, and by virtue of its accessibility by all the
associate* of the Center it is less costly than FAX. Much
information that was once transmitted by letter or memorandum will
now be posted on the board electronically. This expedites the
delivery of the information and at a substantial cost savings,
particularly if the information is to be sent to multiple
recipients.
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Approachx The calendar of events and other important information
will be made available electronically. Opportunities to use
existing electronic bulletin boards are being investigated. One
option is to use the OSWER technology transfer electronic bulletin
board.
Status: There has been a delay in activating the bulletin board.
The original intent was to use the Kansas State University
"Sunflower Dispatch" which is used by the Cooperative Extension
Service. However, access ports were limited. As a result, other
boards presently available through EPA as well as other sources are
being investigated.
HSRC Contribution Repository and Information Clearinghouse: R.B.
Hayter, Kansas State University
Goal: The goal is to collect and make available technical
information produced by the Center and others. Users of the
repository will primarily be Center associates, generators in the
ten state region, state and federal regulatory agencies, and others
needing the technical information. In addition, the repository
will be available to those outside the immediate sphere of the
Center who have need of information on hazardous substances.
Rationalet An important aspect of a successful research program
is the dissemination of the results of the research. It is
critical that there be a convenient, single source of information
generated by the Center and others for effective use of the
information. As technology is being developed by a large number
of individuals, access to that information would be hindered if
those needing it were required to individually request information
from each laboratory or agency. In addition, it is important that
this information be safely archived for future reference.
Approach: The Kansas State University library is the repository
for technical reports, theses, dissertations, and other
publications produced as a result of Center funding. The library
will make these materials available to all interested parties
through interlibrary loan. The library is developing a hazardous
substance collection of literature in support of the research and
technology transfer activities of the Center. In addition to the
information produced by the Center, the library has agreements with
EPA's Center for Environmental Research Information as well as
other agencies and research centers to insure receipt of
appropriate documents on a timely basis.
Through the generation of a master bibliography and computer
searching capabilities, the library provides members of the Center
consortium with subject specific access to all items added to the
collection. Materials are available through interlibrary loan to
all interested parties.
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Status: This project is underway. Several members of the library
staff are assisting with this project. In addition to the
materials which the library has acquired on Superfund, RCRA
Treatment processes, waste minimization, analytical methods, risk
analysis, etc., the Center has provided seven videos, proceedings
of conferences on hazardous waste research sponsored by the Center,
and other research reports and papers.
Conferences: R.B. Hayter, Kansas State University
Goal: The goal is to hold an annual conference on hazardous
substance research and to encourage and support other related
conferences in the region-pair to provide opportunities for
individuals from the public and private sectors to share technical
information regarding the management of hazardous substances.
Rationale; Conferences provide excellent opportunities for the
exchange of informtion. Professional societies that organize
technical conferences should have the support of the Center as this
is an effective method for holding conferences. There are many
advantages to working with professional societies to make their
conferences stronger technically, more cost effective, and better
attended.
Approach; The Center is working with professional societies to
have several conferences each year. The Center plans to host an
annual conference each May. The conferences are normally open to
all who wish to register unless there are space limitations. Some
serve the needs of one or two states while others are national
conferences. Each conference has a specific purpose which helps
the Center meet its technology transfer goals.
Status; A conference on hazardous waste research was held May 23-
24, 1989. The Center co-sponsored a waste minimization training
event on April 24-25, 1989, in conduction with a conference
organized by the St. Louis Section of the American Institute of
Chemical Engineers. The Center is a co-sponsor of the cluster of
conferences to be held February 20-22, 1990, being organized by the
National Water Well Association/Association of Ground Water
Scientists and Engineers.
Public Education: R.B. Hayter, Kansas State University
Goal: Th« objective is to provide printed, video, and audio
materials on hazardous substances in support of the education of
the public to elevate their consciousness and understanding of
hazardous substances so that they can better manage that which they
use or produce, and to give them the information they need in
making decisions dealing with waste minimization.
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Rational*i Public education in hazardous substance management is
needed for public participation in decision making and waste
minimization. A better educated public will have a positive impact
on hazardous substance management.
Approach* Locally prepared and purchased printed materials and
video materials from a variety of sources are being made available
to the public through the Kansas State University library. Center
staff provide public education programs on Center activities and
hazardous substance management in response to requests as time
permits. Printed materials on Center activities are prepared for
publication in newspapers and magazines. Print and electronic news
media are used to increase awareness by the public regarding their
role in hazardous waste management. Media releases describe
sources of technical information available to the public, including
limited consumer information from the Center and the Center
repository. In addition, certain releases contain technical
information of benefit to the lay public in proper management of
their hazardous wastes.
status; Some video materials are available for loan through the
Kansas State University library. Center staff have made
presentations to groups, participated in radio and TV programs,
and interviews with journalists. Several news releases have been
prepared and released for publication.
Technology Data Base: B.R. Biles, Kansas State University
Goal: The goal is to develop a data base of professional expertise
in hazardous substance research for the region-pair.
Rationale; Information on the expertise of hazardous substance
professionals in the consortium universities of the region-pair
will be helpful to the Center, government, and industr.
Approach; An electronic data base will be -prepared through
interviews with hazardous substance professionals. Software has
been developed by Kansas State University for this specific
purpose. It is presently being used to catalogue expertise within
the state supported universities so that sources of expertise are
readily available to researchers as well as industry. The
information has the potential to be guarded so that those seeking
the information may work through a central system to maintain a
certain degree of privacy.
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The Center will use this technique to electronically catalogue
sources of expertise within the two regions. Access to the data
base will be available on disc (or possibly by modem) to Center
participants and appropriate agencies. Availability beyond that
will be determined by the Center's advisory committee.
statust This project is scheduled to start in year 2.
SUMMARY 0? OUTPUTS ZN FY 1989
Refereed Journal Articles Published 0
Articles Submitted or In Press 13
Books and Bound Proceedings 1
Chapters in Books or Proceedings 0
Projects Reports 20
Conferences and Workshops Held 4
TOTAL 38
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Articles submitted or In Press
Berry, N. and J. Schlup, "initial FT-IR studies of the
Adsorption of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons onto Soil
Constituents," Proceedings off the Conference on Hazardous
Waste Research. Erickson L.E. (ed.), Kansas State University,
Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Chou, S.T. and L.T. Fan, "Stabilization/Solidification of Low-
Level Radioactive Liquid from a BWR Nuclear Power Plant with
Pozzolan-Based Fixation Process," Proceedings of the
Conference on Hazardous Waste Research. Erickson, L.E, (ed.),
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Cunningham, A.B., F. Abedeen, W.G. Characklis, and E.M.
Bouwer, "Influence of Microbial Transport on the In-Situ
Bioremediation of Organic Groundwater Contaminants,"
Proceedings of the Conference on Hazardous Waste Research.
Erickson, E.E. (ed.), Kansas State University, Manhattan,
Kansas, 1989.
Dhawan, S., L.E. Erickson, L.T. Fan, P. Tuitemwong, and R.
Mahadevaiah, "Microcosm Techniques for Investigating the
Biodegradation Potential of Light-Non Aqueous Phase Liquids
and Dense-Non Aqueous Phase Liquids," Proceedings of the
Conference on Hazardous Waste Research. Erickson, L.E. (ed.),
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Gilliland, M.W., W.E. Kelly, and 0. Lokke, "Hazardous Waste
Management in Rural Communities in EPA Regions 7 and 8,"
Proceedings of the Conference on Hazardous Waste Research.
Erickson, L.E. (ed.), Kansas State University, Manhattan,
Kansas, 1989.
Glasgow, L.A., "Some Engineering Considerations in the Venting
of Vadose Zone Soils," Proceedings of the Conference on
Hazardous Waate Research. Erickson L.E. (ed.), Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Huang, Y.L., Y.W. Huang, and L.T. Fan, "An Artificial Approach
to the Synthesis of a Mass Exchanger Network for Hazardous
Waste Minimization and Treatment,1* Proceedings of the
Conference on Hazardous Waste Research. Erickson L.E. (ed.),
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Huang, Y.W., L.T. Fan, and W.w. Olson, "Potential Application
of Neural Networks to Hazardous Waste Processing," Proceedings
of the Conference on Hazardous Waslpe Research. Erickson L.E.
(ed.), Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
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Jones, W.L., K.B. Bucklin, A.K. Camper, and P. Stoodley,
"Optimization of In Situ Biodegradability of Subsurface Soil
Contaminants," Proceedings of the Conference on Hazardous
Waste Research. Erickson, L.E. (ed.), Kansas State University,
Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Seybert, R.A., W.P. Waiavender, and L.T. Fan, "Preliminary
Evaluation of Carbon Tetrachloride Destruction in the KSU
Bench-Scale Incinerator," Proceedings of the Conference or\
Hazardous Waste Research. Erickson L.E. (ed.), Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Wu, J.C., L.T. Fan, and L.E. Erickson, "Modeling and
Simulation of Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil,"
Environmental Progress, submitted 1989.
Wu, J.C., L.T. Fan, and L.E. Erickson, "Three-Point Backward
Finite Difference Method for Solving a System of Mixed
Hyperbolic-Parabolic Partial Differential Equations,"
Computers and Chemical Engineering, submitted 1989.
Wu, J.C., L.T. Fan, and L.E. Erickson, "Modeling and
Simulation of Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil: A Case
Study with Recycle of Nutrient Solution," Proceedings of the
Conference on Hazardous Waste Research. Erickson, L.E. (ed.),
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, 1989.
Books and Bound Proceedings
Erickson. L.E. (ed.), Proceedings of the Conference on
Hazardous Waste Research. Kansas State University, Manhattan,
Kansas, May 23-24, 1989.
Project Reports
Banerji, S.K. and R.K. Bajpai, "Migration and Biodegradation
of Pentachlorophenol in Soil Environment, "Technical Progress
Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions
7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September
29, 1989.
Clev«ng«r, T.E. and E.J. Hinderberger, "Reclamation of Metal
and Mining Contaminated Superfund Sites Using Sewage
Sludg«/Fly Ash Amendments, "Technical Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. EPA Regions 7 and
8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 27,
1989.
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Cunninhgam, A.B., W.B. Characklis, and W.L. Jones, "Influence
of Microbial Transport Processes on In-Situ Biodegradation of
Groundwater Contaminants, "Technical Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 15,
1989.
Erickson, L.E. and L.T. Fan, "Development of In-Situ
Biodegradation Technology, "Technical Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 29,
1989.
Fan, L.T., "Experimental Study of Stabilization/Solidification
of Hazardous Wastes," Technical Progress Report, Hazardous
Substance Research Center for U.S. EPA Regions 7 and 8, Kansas
State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 29, 1989.
Fan, L.T., "Computer-Aided Design and Control of Systems for
Treatment of Hazardous Waste and Minimization of Waste
Production," Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance
Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 29, 1989.
Ghosh, S., S. Bupp, and L. DeBirk, "Removal of Heavy Metals
from Hazardous Wastes by Protein Complexation for Their
Ultimate Recovery and Reuse, "Technical Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 30,
1989.
Gilliland, M.W. and W.E. Kelly, "Hazardous Waste Management
in Rural Communities in EPA Regions 7 and 8," Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 30,
1989.
Glasgow, L.A., "Vadose Zone Decontamination by Air Injection,"
Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center
for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan,
Kansas, September 29, 1989.
Harbourt, C.O., "Introduction to Hazardous Waste Management,"
Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S.
Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas,
September 30, 1989.
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Hunter, R.S. and F.D. Culver, "Computer Method to Estimate
Safe Level Water Quality Concentrations for Organic
Chemicals," Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance
Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 20, 1989.
Keefer, G.B. and G.J. Theis, "Metal Recovery and Reuse Using
an Integrated Vermiculite Ion Exchange-Acid Recovery System,"
Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center
for U.S. EPA Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University,
Manhattan, Kansas, September 30,1989.
Kross, B.C., "Removal of Nitrogenous Pesticides from Rural
Well Water Supplies by Enzymatic Ozonation Process, "Technical
Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S.
Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas,
September 30, 1989.
O'Keefe, T.J., J.W. Watson, L. Chia, and Z. Wang, "The
Characterization and Treatment of Hazardous Materials from
Metal/Mineral Processing Wastes," Technical Progress Report,
Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 30,
1989.
Parkin, G.F. and D.T. Gibson, "Feasibility of In-Situ
Anaerobic Bioreclamation of Mixtures of Toxic Chemicals,
"Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research
Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University,
Manhattan, Kansas, September 30, 1989.
Schlup, J.R., "Adsorption of Hazardous Substances onto Soil
Constituents," Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance
Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 30, 1989.
Schnoor, J.L. and G.F. Parkin, "Modeling Dissolved Oxygen,
Nitrate, and Pesticide Contamination in the Subsurface
Environment, "Technical Progress Report, Hazardous Substance
Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 30, 1989.
Visvanath, D.S., K. Shubhender, T.E. Clevenger, and R.K. Puri,
"Development, Characterization and Evaluation of Regenerable
Adsorbent Material for Treatment of Waste Streams," Technical
Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S.
Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas,
September 30, 1989.
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Walawender, W.P. and L.T. Fan, "Thermochemical Treatment of
Hazardous Wastes," Technical Progress Report, Hazardous
Substance Research Center for U.S. Regions 7 and 8, Kansas
State University, Manhattan, Kansas, September 29. 1989.
Yanders, A.P., K. Shubhender, and R. Puri, "Time Dependent
Movement of Dioxin and Related Compounds in Soil, "Technical
Progress Report, Hazardous Substance Research Center for U.S.
Regions 7 and 8, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas,
September 30, 1989.
Conferences and Workshops Held
Two-day Workshop — "Waste Minimization Workshop," St. Louis,
MO, April 24-25, 1989.
One-day Teleconference — "Ask the Experts: 2nd Annual
Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Update," Manhattan,
KS, May 10, 1989 (provided by Oklahoma State University).
Two-day Conference — "Conference on Hazardous Waste
Research," Manhattan, KS, May 23-24, 1989.
Three-day Training Course — "Introduction to Hazardous Waste
Management," Columbia, MO, August 7-9, 1989.
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Chapter 5
Western Region Hazardous Substance Research Center
-------
Center: Western Region Hazardous Substance Research
Center
Participants: Stanford University
Oregon State University
center Director; Perry L. Mccarty
Department of Civil Engineering
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305-4020
Phone: 415/723-4131
FAX: 415/723-5599
THE CENTER AT A GLANCE
The Western Region Hazardous Substance Research Center
(WRHSRC) is a cooperative activity between Stanford University and
Oregon State University that was established in February 1989 to
address critical hazardous substance problems in EPA Regions 9 and
10. These regions include the states of Alaska, Arizona,
California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Guam.
The objectives of the Center are:
1. To promote through fundamental and applied research the
development of alternative and advanced physical, chemical, and
biological processes for treatment of hazardous substances in the
surface and subsurface environments.
2. To disseminate the results of research to the industrial and
regulatory communities, to foster exchange of information with
these communities, and to promote a better understanding of the
scientific capability to detect, assess, and mitigate risks
associated with all aspects of hazardous substance usage and
disposal. The research and training activities of the Center
fqcus on the major hazardous substance problems in EPA Regions 9
and 10, including chlorinated and non-chlorinated solvents,
petroleum products, pesticides, and toxic inorganic ions including
heavy metals. Environmental problems from these substances, which
often occur in mixtures, result largely from the production of
electronic equipment, chemicals, forestry products, and food, as
well as mining and military activities, all of which are important
in the region-pair. Table 1 below lists key center personnel.
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Table It Key Personnel in the Center
Stanford University Oregon state University
D.L. Freyberg J.D. Istok
D. Grbic-Galic P.O. Nelson
S.M. Gorelick K.J. Williamson
P.K. Kitanidis S.L. Woods
J.O. Leckie
P.L. Mccarty
D.W. North
M. Reinhard
P.V. Roberts
The Center receives its base financial support from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, but also is supported through
grants, contracts, and gifts from other federal agencies, states,
municipalities, and industry. A summary of the Center's funds is
shown in Table 2:
Table 2: Center Budget
FUNDING SOURCES FY 1989 FUNDS
EPA: Centers Program $2,000,000
Other Government 130,000
Consortium 346,093
Private Sector 186.467
TOTAL * $2,662,560
CENTER DIRECTOR*8 REPORT
The Western Region Hazardous Substance Research Center is
focusing its activities on the development of alternative and
advanced processes for treatment of hazardous substances in the
surface and subsurface environment. Two specific goals relating
to subsurface contamination are: (1) development of a greater
understanding of processes governing the movement and fate of
contaminants in groundwater, and (2) development and evaluation of
schemes for groundwater clean-up. Contamination of groundwater by
hazardous substances is one of the major environmental problems
facing the western region and the nation as a whole. The team of
researchers assembled in the Center have a long history of research
on groundwater problems, so this is a logical topic for the Center
to address. In addition, this focus complements the missions of
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other research centers that address hazardous substance problems,
both within Regions 9 and 10 and in other parts of the country.
By concentrating on a carefully selected few of the several
environmental problems of significance, the center increases its
chances of solving important, but complex, problems. This focus
also accommodates a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving,
which is vital to the successful resolution of the complex
physical, chemical, biological, and geological problems caused by
subsurface contamination by hazardous substances.
In addition to research on subsurface contamination, the
Center is developing new treatment systems that are capable of
removing, concentrating, and in some cases, destroying hazardous
substances. Such processes are urgently needed to treat hazardous
substance-containing waste streams from industries and
municipalities. The center's studies on groundwater are helping
to define new processes that are potentially applicable in surface
treatment systems as well. For example, studies on groundwater
processes have lead to the finding that there are naturally
occurring microorganisms which can destroy man-made organic
chemicals that were previously believed to persist in the natural
environment. often these microorganisms grow slowly, or degrade
the compounds fortuitously by co-metabolism while consuming other
organic materials for food. Efforts are being made to capture this
natural ability in engineered systems so that the reaction rates
can be greatly increased and the overall process can be better
controlled. The development of such advanced treatment systems
requires new engineering concepts and increased knowledge about the
physical, chemical, and biological processes involved. Again, a
team approach is essential to address the various difficult issues
inherent in complex technology development.
The Center initially supported 14 research projects, six to
address subsurface contamination, four to focus on above-ground
treatment systems, and four to research basic mechanisms of
hazardous substance removal and transformation that are applicable
both in above-ground and subsurface treatment systems. Since its
inception, five additional projects have been added to the Center's
activities. Industries have found the interdisciplinary activity
fostered by the Center to be beneficial to the solution of their
environmental problems and have consequently contributed funds to
support projects conducted by the Center. The U.S. Department of
the Navy has also agreed to sponsor a Center project. This is
anticipated to be a strongly positive aspect of the Center's
program.
In addition to research, the Center has fostered training and
technology transfer initiatives. Kenneth Williamson, head of the
Center's training and technology program, led an effort to
determine the training and technology transfer needs throughout the
region-pair, through discussions with state and federal regulatory
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agencies and from input by the Center's Training and Technology
Advisory Committee. Several needs emerged: (1) development of a
university-based continuing education hazardous substance training
program, (2) establishment of an annual hazardous substance
conference in the Northwest region, similar to programs presently
in operation in California, and (3) a series of seminars to
present results of research that has direct application in the
field. In response to these needs, two short courses on hazardous
substance chemistry and management were given in Oregon, and an
advanced workshop was held on chemical transformations in
groundwater and biological approaches to in-situ remediation.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 1989
Groundwater contamination continues to be one of the country's
most pressing environmental problems. Contamination has resulted
from a variety of past activities including seepage from waste
storage lagoons and dumps, accidental spills, and leaking
underground storage tanks. While preventive measures are now being
taken to reduce the incidence of such contamination, the country
is faced with the consequences of poor waste practices in the past.
Indeed, the majority of designated and potential Superfund sites
have groundwater contamination as the major health concern.
A major emphasis of the Center's activities is to obtain
greater knowledge of natural biological processes, both to obtain
a better understanding of how hazardous chemicals move in the
natural environment and to take advantage of the natural processes
in engineered systems for contaminant control. Biological
degradation is particularly attractive as it has the potential for
ridding the environment of harmful chemicals, rather than simply
moving them from one location to another. To apply biological
treatment at contaminated sites, knowledge of interrelated
chemical, physical, and geological phenomena is required and
research by an interdisciplinary team is essential. There are two
particularly exciting research areas that have stemmed from past
studies at the Center and elsewhere, and are highlighted here. One
is the use of methanotrophic bacteria for in-situ biodegradation
of chlorinated solvents. The other is research on the natural
degradation of aromatic hydrocarbons in the absence of oxygen.
In-8itu Biodagradation of Chlorinated Solvents
Among the most prevalent groundwater contaminants are
chlorinated organic solvents, such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and
1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA), gasoline and other petroleum
hydrocarbons including benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX), and a
broad group of homocyclic and heterocyclic aromatic compounds that
are associated with preserving wood. The latter include
polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and pentachlorophenol
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(PCP). In the past, it was thought that most of these compounds
were not degraded by natural biological processes under the
environmental conditions existent in soils and groundwaters. In
recent years, however, research by the Center faculty and others
has clearly demonstrated that TCE and TCA can slowly disappear in
groundwater, as a result of both biological and chemical processes
that occur in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic processes). The
transformations usually result in the formation of other
less-chlorinated products, such as vinyl chloride, dichloroethylene
(DCE), 1,1-dichloroethane (1,1-DCA), or 1,1-dichloroethylene
(1,1-DCE) and acetic acid. In some instances, complete
mineralization to harmless end products is possible but often the
final step occurs so slowly that it is difficult to make use of it
in an engineered system.
EPA researchers John T. Wilson and Barbara Wilson reported in
1985 that when oxygen and natural gas were added to soil, TCE
degradation occurred. They showed that the effect resulted from
growth of bacteria that consume methane and oxygen in order to
derive energy for growth (methanotrophic bacteria). Fortuitously,
the enzyme (MMO) used by these organisms to oxidize methane, also
initiates the oxidation of TCE by the process of co-metabolism.
Subsequently, the TCE intermediate formed is chemically hydrolyzed
and the products are converted by other bacteria to harmless end
products.
As used in this sense, co-metabolism is a process in which the
chlorinated compound is incidentally degraded by an enzyme produced
by the bacteria to oxidize its primary energy source, in this case
methane. Since the organism gains no advantage by degrading the
chlorinated compound, the process cannot work unless an energy
source is provided. The reaction kinetics are complicated because
the co-metabolized compound competes with the primary energy source
for this key enzyme. Before it is possible to take commercial
advantage of the abilities of these methanotropic organisms, it is
necessary to develop a complete understanding of the chemical,
biological, and physical processes which occur, and the limitations
involved. Toward that end, Center faculty have just completed a
four-year laboratory and field study to evaluate the potential for
this complex process at the Moffett Naval Air Station in Mountain
View, California. In addition to advancing our understanding of
the process of co-metabolism, the study sought to demonstrate the
potential for using the process in the field, and to develop
methods for applying the process to contaminated sites.
Methanotrophic bacteria were found to be naturally present at the
field site, and when stimulated to grow by the addition of methane
and oxygen dissolved in water, they degraded TCE, DCE, and VC. The
latter were degraded faster and more completely than the former.
Because of the success of this research, several Center projects
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are now underway to obtain greater fundamental understanding of the
several processes involved, and to speed the application of this
in-situ biorenediation method at contaminated sites.
An industrial site in Michigan has been chosen for an initial
full-scale application of the methanotrophic process. The
engineering and economic feasibility of applying the process here
is being evaluated through a Center project funded with an
industrial contract with the company involved and additional EPA
support. Through natural biological processes, TCE at this site
has been transformed in the groundwater into DCE and VC, compounds
that are degraded faster than TCE itself by the methanotrophic
process. Subsurface samples have been obtained with the aid of
EPA's Kerr Laboratory in Ada, Oklahoma, to determine whether the
methanotrophic bacteria of interest are naturally present in this
system, and to assess their respective rates of chemical
transformations. A computer model is being used to evaluate
alternative ways for adding methane and oxygen, and to select the
best operating procedures for the system.
One of the significant findings from past studies is the
important effect on the rate of groundwater mineral movement when
contaminants are sorbed onto these minerals. A new finding is the
relatively slow rate at which some chemicals desorb from ground-
water minerals, a fact that has important implications for any
engineered solution to a subsurface contamination problem as well
as for in-situ biodegradation. The sorptive properties of aquifer
material at the Michigan site are being studied because of this
need. In addition, two Center projects are specifically addressing
the question of just how sorption affects the rates of biological
degradation.
In many subsurface clean-up schemes, contaminated water is
pumped to the surface, and volatile organic compounds such as TCA,
TCE, DCE, and VC are air stripped and transferred either to the
air or onto sorbing material such as activated carbon. Vapor
extraction is another process used. In an above-ground surface
reactor, biodegradation of the contaminants so removed could lead
to their destruction, thus achieving a permanent remedy. Toward
this end, one Center project is developing basic information on
mass trancf«r and kinetics of biodegradation of chlorinated
solvents for application in surface reactors.
In enter to implement engineered systems to reduce ground-
water contamination, strategies are needed to detect and assess the
presence of groundwater contaminants and to design reliable and
cost-effective mitigation schemes. Two Center projects are
directed towards satisfying these needs. The projects specifically
consider the great uncertainties involved in groundwater
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remediation because of the complexity and variability of subsurface
geology. These studies will aid in the design of in-situ
bioremediation schemes, such as methanotrophic oxidation, as well
as other cleanup approaches.
Such studies by the Center cover short term and long term
needs for the remediation of contaminated groundwaters and for
treatment of contaminated water supplies as well. The approach
being taken is to develop a basic understanding of the physical,
chemical, and biological processes involved, and to develop as
rapidly as possible engineered applications that make use of these
processes. The new approach of using co-metabolism for degradation
appears very promising for permanent disposal of chlorinated
solvents, which are among the most prevalent, difficult, and
costly hazardous substance problems before the country.
Anaerobic Biological Transformations of Aromatic Compounds
Leakage of gasoline and other petroleum hydrocarbons
represents another major source of subsurface contamination. Of
the many components in gasoline, the compounds benzene,
ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX) are the most soluble in
water and thus are the ones most commonly found as groundwater
contaminants. These aromatic compounds, so named because they all
contain the benzene ring structure, are readily degraded by
bacteria when oxygen and other inorganic nutrients required for
bacterial growth are present. However, oxygen often is deficient
in groundwater because of lack of contact with air, and for this
reason, aromatic compounds often persist for years. While it has
been clearly demonstrated that natural microorganisms exist that
can degrade aromatic hydrocarbons such as BTX in the absence of
oxygen, the rates are slow, and very little is known about the
microorganisms involved or of their biochemistry. Through previous
studies by Center faculty and their students, disappearance of BTX
under anaerobic conditions was first observed at landfill leachates
from North Bay, Canada, and was confirmed through laboratory
studies.
Aromatic hydrocarbons are also common contaminants in wood
preservatives, such as creosotes, and in wastes from consumer-gas
production plants, widely used in the past. Recent studies by
Center faculty have demonstrated some of the aromatic hydrocarbons
in these wastes are also slowly degraded in groundwater under some
conditions. Anaerobic degradation of pentachlorophenol, which is
another important wood preservative, has also been found. The
recent observations that other highly chlorinated aromatic
compounds such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), can be
transformed in the absence of oxygen as well, have led to
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considerable interest in anaerobic processes. Chlorine atoms from
highly chlorinated compounds are often removed faster under
anaerobic conditions than aerobic conditions.
These very recent and important findings indicate that under
the proper conditions, some groundwater contaminants of concern
will naturally disappear with time so that no costly remediation
will be required. If we had the ability to predict when and where
such degradation would occur, then scarce financial resources could
be used elsewhere to solve more intractable problems. Also, the
potential exists for engineered approaches to speed along these
natural processes. This requires a much better scientific
understanding of the microorganisms involved, pathways of
degradation, and factors affecting rates of reaction. Several of
the Center projects have these objectives in mind.
In aerobic systems, bacteria use oxygen to oxidize organic
compounds for energy. In the absence of oxygen, there are bacteria
that can use alternative oxidants (electron acceptors) such as
nitrate, sulfate, or carbon dioxide. The bacteria capable of
using these different oxidants are themselves quite different as
is their biochemistry. A potentially important group of anaerobic
bacteria are the sulfate reducers because sulfate is commonly found
in groundwater. However, knowledge about their ability to degrade
aromatic compounds is almost nonexistent. For this reason, three
Center projects are concerned with biotransformation of aromatic
compounds under sul fate-reducing conditions. One is directed
towards evaluating the degradation of chlorinated aromatic
compounds in pulp mill bleaching effluent, and the other is
directed towards the polycyclic compounds (PAHs) that are commonly
present at creosote sites and consumer gas plants. Another Center
project funded by the U.S. Navy and the Orange County Water
District is directed towards understanding factors affecting rates
as well as nutrient requirements in BTX destruction by the
different groups of bacteria that use nitrate, sulfate, or carbon
dioxide as oxidants. These studies are difficult because of the
necessity to exclude oxygen from the cultures, and the slow rate
of organism growth and adaptation to these hydrocarbons. However,
because of the long residence times of groundwaters , transformation
processes that are very slow can be quite significant, and thus are
worth understanding. In spite of the slow and complex nature of
this research, significant progress is being made.
International
A significant event co-sponsored by the Center this year was
the International Symposium on Processes Governing the Movement and
Fate of Contaminants in the Subsurface Environment. This three-day
meeting, held at Stanford University on July 23 to 26, 1989, was
also sponsored by the International Association on Water Pollution
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Research and Control, with financial support from EPA, the National
Science Foundation, and the U.S. Geological Survey. The purpose
of the meeting was to bring together leading research scientists
and engineers from around the world to evaluate the current
knowledge about the processes that affect the way in which
chemicals interact with the soil, move with the flow of water and
air through the subsurface environments, and are transformed or
degraded by both abiotic and biotic processes. A total of 175
individuals attended the meeting, including 28 foreign participants
from 14 different countries. There were 35 oral and 40 poster
presentations. The symposium focused on the physical, chemical,
and biological processes that are most important to chemical
migration and transformation in both the saturated and unsaturated
zones. Considerable scientific interaction occurred at this
meeting, and it sharpened the focus of the Center faculty, staff,
and students on the important issues requiring further research.
The symposium was highly successful in meeting its objectives.
SUMMARY OF ONGOING PROJECTS
Investigators Project Title
Above-Ground Treatment Systems
Reinhard, McCarty, Treatment of Complex Mixtures
Roberts, Grbic'-Galic',
Leckie
McCarty, Roberts Oxidation of Chlorinated Solvents by
Methanotrophs
Woods Interactions Between Electron Acceptors
in the Treatment of Wastewaters Containing
Sulfate, Chlorophenols and Acetate
Williamson, Nelson Enhancing Biodegradation with Sorption and
Alternating Aerobic/Anaerobic Environments
julyurface Assessment and Treatment
Kitanidis Detection and Assessment of Subsurface
Contamination
Corelick Design of Reliable and Cost-Effective
Mitigation Schemes
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Roberts, Kitanidis
Reinhard, Roberts
Istok, Woods
McCarty, Reinhard
McCarty, Roberts
Reinhard, McCarty
Kitanidis, Freyberg
Reinhard, McCarty
Spatial Distribution and Mass Transfer of
an Organic Liquid Contaminant in a Porous
Medium
Gaseous Stripping of Nonaqueous Liquids
from the Vadose Zone
Development and Verification of a
Numerical Model to Predict the Fate and
Transport of Chlorinated Phenols in
Groundvater
In-Situ Biological Treatment of Aromatics
in Groundwater
In-Situ Bioremediation of Chlorinated
Aliphatics with Methanotrophs
The Effect of Surfactants on
Biodegradation of Chlorinated Biphenyls
in Soils
FASTCHEM Application and Sensitivity
Analysis
Long Term Chemical Transformation of
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (TCA) and Freon 113
under Aquifer Conditions
Mechanistic Studies
Grbic'-Galic'
Mccarty, Roberts
Leckie
Reinhard
Anaerobic Microbial Transformation of
Homocyclic and Heterocyclic Polynuclear
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Effects of Sorption on Biodegradation of
Halogenated Organics
Trace Metal Removal Processes
Abiotic Dehalogenation of Haloaliphatic
Compounds in Aqueous Solutions Containing
Hydrogen Sulfide
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Training and Technology Transfer
McCarty, Roberts International Symposium on Processes
Governing the Movement and Fate of
Contaminants in the Subsurface Environment
Williamson, Nelson Fundamentals of Chemistry of Hazardous
Substances
Williamson, Nelson, Fundamentals of Hazardous Substances
Istok, Woods
Grbic'-Galic, Biological Transformation of Chlorinated
McCarty, Roberts, Solvents in Subsurface Systems
Semprini
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Above-Ground Treatment Systems
Treatment of Complex Mixtures: M.R. Reinhard, P.L. McCarty,
P.V. Roberts, D. Grbic'-Galic1, and J.O. Leckie, Stanford
University
Goal: The long term goal of this project is to develop a computer
based information system which can be used to develop criteria for
choosing appropriate treatment combinations for complex wastes.
Rationale; Waste streams and waters containing complex mixtures
generally cannot be treated using a single treatment process.
Depending on the types of contaminants present and their physical,
chemical, and biological properties, combinations of several
different processes must be employed.
Approach; A computerized data base will be developed which may be
used to retrieve or to estimate the compound properties that are
relevant for assessing their behavior in treatment systems, such
as physico-chemical properties of contaminants, energetics concepts
for evaluating the thermodynamic feasibility of biotransformations,
and correlations for estimating mass transfer rate coefficients.
Status: Presently, two chemical information systems, EICHEM and
SECHEN are being employed. These were developed at the Technical
University in Munich. Dr. Drefahl, the developer of the two
systems, has joined the Center and is currently in the process of
setting them up. EICHEM is capable of estimating a range of
environmentally relevant substance properties, such as
n-octanol/water partition coefficients, vapor pressure, and heat
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of evaporation, on the basis of substituent constants. SECHEM is
designed to evaluate contributions of substructures based on
discriminant analysis techniques and a test set of data. Work
during this project period is focusing on the implementation of
algorithms which consider the effect of solution variables, such
as cosolutes, temperature, pH, and ionic strength, on solute
properties. In future work, programs for the evaluation of
contaminant behavior in treatment processes will be developed.
Oxidation of Chlorinated Solvents by Kethanotrophss P.L. Mccarty
and P.V. Roberts, Stanford University
Goal; Methanotrophic bacteria, which oxidize methane for energy,
have been found capable of oxidizing chlorinated solvents by
co-metabolism. The goals of this project are: (1) to obtain a
better basic understanding of the relationship between the relative
concentrations of methane and chlorinated compounds and the overall
chlorinated solvent degradation rate, (2) to assess the importance
of mass transfer limitations to methanotrophic reactions, and (3)
to use the knowledge gained about reaction kinetics and mass
transfer limitations to determine the most suitable reactor design
for enhancing chlorinated solvent degradation.
Rationale: There are many current attempts to devise treatment
processes for degrading chlorinated aliphatic compounds. However,
there is a lack of basic understanding of the factors affecting
reaction rates for co-metabolized compounds. In addition, since
the energy substrates, methane and oxygen, and the contaminants are
all poorly soluble in water, mass transfer properties of treatment
systems become of great significance.
Approach! It is hypothesized that oxidation rates for methane and
chlorinated contaminants can be described by a competitive
inhibition model. Here, the rate limiting step is the oxidation
of either methane or TCE by methane monooxygenase (MMO). To
evaluate this hypothesis, reaction coefficients for methane and TCE
alone are being evaluated using a mixed methanotrophic culture
derived from the Moffett Field aquifer. Reaction rates when they
are used in combination will then be predicted and measured in
order to test the hypothesis. In mass transfer studies, model
calculations are being made for a variety of fixed-film reactor
configurations in order to determine flow patterns that are
realistic and optimal for given treatment objectives. These
calculations consider mass transfer effects and biological reaction
kinetics. The model results are expected to guide reactor design
as well as help to determine important knowledge gaps that may be
in need of further research.
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statusi Preliminary laboratory studies have been conducted to
determine basic reaction coefficients for methane and
trichloroethylene utilization alone by methanotrophs. Model
calculations have been carried out for a fluidized bed reactor,
and results are being evaluated to determine where knowledge gaps
may exist.
Interactions between Electron Acceptors in the Treatment of
Wastewaters Containing Sulfate, Chlorophenols and Acetate:
S.L. Woods, Oregon State University
Goal; The goal of this project is to develop and verify a
mathematical model for anaerobic biodegradation in the presence of
competing electron acceptors. Biodegradation constants will be
measured to describe sulfate reduction, acetate fermentation, and
reductive dechlorination. Resulting kinetic expressions and
constants will be used to: (1) develop an effective anaerobic
biological treatment process for wastewaters from the pulp and
paper industry, (2) model sequential reductive dechlorination of
chlorophenols in soils, and (3) model the anaerobic/aerofc_c
treatment of chlorophenols in biological wastewater treatment
systems.
Rationale; A better understanding of biodegradation in the
presence of multiple substrates is needed. Additionally, kinetic
constants for biodegradation are necessary to understand the fate
of hazardous wastes in soils and to develop bioremediation or
wastewater treatment systems.
Approach: Progress curves for compound biotransformation are
generated in batch reactor systems, and biodegradation constants
are determined by fitting a mathematical model to the progress
curves generated under varying initial conditions (concentrations
of acetate, sulfate, and chlorophenols). The initial biomass is
held constant. The reactor system has been designed and
constructed to permit strictly anaerobic transfers. The system
consists of two 9-liter mother reactors and 2-liter batch reactors.
The mother reactors are operated at a 10 hour hydraulic retention
time. The first reactor is fed a solution of pentachlorophenol,
acetate, and nutrients. The second reactor is fed a similar
solution except for the addition of sulfate. Progress curves are
developed with the 2-liter batch reactors.
statusi S«v«ral batch experiments have been conducted. Reductive
dechlorination of pentachlorophenol has been observed in the
presence and absence of sulfate. Experimental work is continuing
to evaluate biodegradation kinetics under varying initial
conditions. Completion of the project is expected in February
1992.
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Enhancing Biodegradation with florption and Alternating
Aerobio/Aaaerobia Environment*: K.J. Williamson, P.O. Nelson,
Oregon State University
Qoalt The goal of this project is to develop and verify a mass
transport and biokinetic model of the sorption and biological
degradation of chlorophenols by an aerobic-anaerobic layered
biofilm on granular activated carbon.
Rationale! Granular activated carbon (GAG) has been shown to be
useful for enhancing biological treatment of toxic organic
compounds by adsorption, resulting in reduced aqueous
concentrations to below inhibitory levels. This enables biological
degradation by both suspended bacteria and the biofilm attached to
the GAG. Haloaromatic compounds undergo different biodegradation
pathways under anaerobic and aerobic conditions. Either anaerobic
or aerobic pathways may result in the production of metabolites
that cannot undergo further metabolism in that particular pathway.
It may be possible to increase the potential for biodegradation of
these compounds and their metabolites by alternating their exposure
to aerobic and anaerobic conditions. GAG will serve as an
adsorbing medium for the halogenated organic compounds and their
metabolic products that do not undergo rapid biodegradation. GAG
will also serve as a support medium for the biofilm to allow
physical separation from the liquid stream and transfer between
aerobic and anaerobic environments with a controlled frequency.
Approach: The project has been broken down into several individual
tasks to meet the overall project goal. The tasks are: (1)
determine the aerobic biodegradation kinetics of chlorophenols in
batch biological reactor experiments, (2) determine the anaerobic
biodegradation kinetics of chlorophenols in batch biological
reactor experiments, (3) measure the sorption and desorption
kinetics and equilibria of chlorophenols on granular activated
carbon in complete-mix batch reactors, (4) investigate the combined
sorption-biodegradation of chlorophenols sorbed on GAG in
alternating aerobic-anaerobic complete-mix flow reactors, and (5)
develop a combined kinetic model.
Status* Experiments are in progress for the first three tasks
identified above. Reactors are being designed for the experiments
in task four. Individual components of the combined kinetic model
are under development for representing the results of aerobic
biodegradation, anaerobic biodegradation, and sorption experiments.
Expected completion date for the project is February 1991.
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Detection and Assessment of Subsurface Contamination: Peter K.
Kitanidis, Stanford University
Goal; The thrust of this project is the development of better
techniques for characterizing contaminated sites. Objectives
include the development of better methods for the detection and
assessment of groundwater contamination and the determination of
the mechanisms and parameters which govern the transport and fate
of pollutants. Another important objective of this project is to
develop practical methods for determining the effective properties
of heterogeneous media from measurements of the local parameters.
Rationale: There is seldom enough information to determine with
certainty the precise values of all parameters, especially at the
local scale. Measurements of some critical transport parameters,
such as hydraulic conductivity, indicate variability of orders of
magnitude over short distances. Other parameters, such as
thermodynamic constants and rate coefficients, are also quite
variable. In many cases, one is interested in the "effective"
parameters of the heterogeneous formation, meaning those which
govern the net or "macroscopic" rate of advection, dispersion, and
chemical attenuation, rather than the highly variable local rates.
Approach; The developed approach combines measurements,
mechanistic models describing the transport and fate of pollutants,
and statistical methods. In recognition of spatial variability and
scarcity of information, the parameters which determine flow
transport and fate of solutes, such as conductivity, retardation,
and reaction coefficients, are characterized in statistical terms.
The mathematical formalism of random functions is used to describe
spatially variable quantities through statistical moments, such as
mean and covariance functions. These moments are obtained from
data and other information using geostatistical techniques. Then,
through the governing flow and mass transport equations, the
statistics of solute concentration can be derived. These methods
are applied to two problems of practical interest: the evaluation
of the macroscopic or field-scale flow and transport parameters
and the conditioning of predictions on data.
Status: Initial efforts have focused on determining the relation
between the measurable but highly erratic local parameters and the
effective parameters which govern the flow and solute transport at
macroscopic scales of interest. Significant progress was achieved
in the problem of effective conductivities. Consider the problem
of flow in a porous medium with hydraulic conductivity which
fluctuates locally about a mean value. The flow is unsteady but
gradually varying, i.e., the scale of head fluctuations is
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larger than the scale of hydraulic-conductivity fluctuations.
The equations have been derived which must be satisfied by the
effective conductivity tensor under general conditions using a
method of volume averaging and spatial moments. The effective
conductivity is defined as the conductivity of a fictitious
homogeneous medium which would effect the same rate of spreading
on a pressure mound as the actual heterogeneous medium. The key
result of the analysis was that the effective conductivity matrix
of the hydraulically heterogeneous medium is given by solving a
well-defined boundary value problem and carrying out an
integration. Even if those have to be performed numerically, this
approach is potentially a significant improvement over other
numerical methods. Another numerical method is being developed
which takes advantage of the structure of the problem at hand.
Work is also progressing on the problem of effective dispersion
coefficients.
Design of Reliable and Cost-Effective Mitigation Schemes:
S.M. Corelick, Stanford University
Qoalt The aim of this project is to develop and test methods for
design of pump-and-treat aquifer remediation systems. These
methods can target reliable strategies that identify the best well
locations and pumping rates to successfully capture contaminant
plumes. Reliable strategies also must be made cost effective by
determining the lowest pumping rates that assure contaminant
capture.
Rationale: Simulation models can be powerful tools for designing
aquifer remediation schemes. Unfortunately, there is tremendous
uncertainty associated with our predictive models of subsurface
contaminant transport, even for substances whose chemical behavior
is well understood. This uncertainty stems from the spatial
variability of aquifer properties which dictate flow. Given this
uncertainty, one must over-design any pump-and-treat system.
Knowledge of the nature of simulation model uncertainty and the
development of risk-based design strategies are therefore
essential.
Approach: The project is being conducted in cooperation with
Environment Canada. Efforts focus on the Gloucester Special Waste
Compound in Ontario, Canada. In 1989, work began to design a
pump-and-treat remediation scheme for this research site which
contains hazardous organic solvents. The best remediation design
requires optimal well selection and the determination of optimal
pumping rates. This research team approaches the problem by
developing stochastic simulation models based upon available field
data, then combining these models with nonlinear optimization
methods in order to identify reliable strategies. Model parameter
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uncertainty is considered as an indicator of design reliability.
In this approach, model parameters are first described
statistically and these statistical measures of uncertainty are
then used to overdesign the remediation system.
Status: Preliminary analysis of the hydraulic and chemical field
data for the Gloucester site has been completed. A stochastic
simulation model of the site is currently under development. The
model is a two-dimensional plan view finite-element simulation
model in which the transmissivity, porosity, and dispersivitiy are
considered the critical uncertain parameters. Geologic
characterization is complete and calibration of the model is
underway. Completion is expected by 3/92.
Spatial Distribution and Mass Transfer of an Organic Liquid
Contaminant in a Porous Medium: P.V. Roberts and P.Kitanidis,
Stanford University
Goal; The goal of this project is to improve understanding of the
physical processes that govern the distribution and mass transport
of residual organic liquid contaminants in the subsurface, in par-
ticular the effects of mass transfer limitation and heterogeneity.
Rationale; These phenomena are believed to influence significantly
the design and economics of groundwater quality restoration efforts
in situations where immiscible organic liquids have contaminated
the subsurface.
Approach; This project will proceed by formulating a conceptual
model for the distribution of the residual liquid, applying
interphase mass transfer models to the situation of a uniform
medium, testing the models against the results of laboratory
experiments, and developing mathematical models to simulate
behavior in nonuniform media.
Status; The evaluation of mass transfer of residual liquid
contaminant phases has commenced with the development of a simple
conceptual model which envisions the residual contaminant as being
held in the form of pendular rings in the narrow spaces surrounding
the solid contact points. The relationship between the relative
saturation and the interfacial area for various packing geometries
has been calculated under these idealized conditions. A
manuscript in preparation summarizes the basic theory and results
of the preliminary computations, and points out the implications
for groundwater contamination problems. Also, a new modeling
approach was developed for simulating transport of a sorbing solute
under conditions of spatially variable retardation; a closed-form
analytical solution was obtained using the method of small
perturbations (Chrysikopoulos, Kitanidis, and Roberts, 1989).
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Gaseous stripping of Nonaqueous Liquids from the Vadose zona:
M.Reinhard, P.V. Roberts, Stanford University
Goal: The goal of this project is to develop an understanding of
the basic processes which govern the behavior of organic vapors in
the unsaturated zone.
Rationale» Vapor stripping has become a widely used method for
removing volatile organics from the subsurface. However, there is
no basis for assessing when conditions are favorable for this
procedure, nor is there any way of predicting the rate of
contaminant removal.
Approacht Chromatographic columns packed with aquifer material and
model sorbents are being used to simulate vapor phase sorption in
the vadose zone. The data will be used to to evaluate the existing
transport models.
Statusi Two similar vapor sorption systems consisting of a soil
column connected to a gas Chromatographic detector have been
constructed and tested. Work with two aquifer materials and
several model solids is expected to be completed in early 1992.
Development and Verification of a Numerical Model to Predict the
Fate and Transport of Chlorinated Phenols in Groundvatert
J.D. Istok and S.L. Woods, Oregon State University
Goal: The objectives are to develop a numerical model to predict
the fate and transport of 2,4-dichlorophenol, pentachlorophenol,
and their primary anaerobic degradation products in field soils and
groundwater aquifers, and to verify the model using laboratory and
field experiments.
Rationale: Predictive models are needed for site characterization
and to design effective biological remediation strategies.
Approach! A preliminary mathematical model was developed based on
processes of advection, dispersion, diffusion, sorption, and
anaerobic degradation for each solute species in the anaerobic
degradation pathway for pentachlorophenol, an electron donor
(acetate), and biomass. Monod kinetics and a "macroscopic bulk
concentration" concept are used to describe growth. The resulting
set of nonlinear differential equations are solved by the finite
difference method. Experiments are conducted using a Chehalis soil
in batch reactors, columns, and in large soil tanks consisting of
an aluminum box (2m wide x 4 m long x 20 cm deep) supported by a
steel framework. The tanks each hold 1500 kg of soil and are
designed to provide controlled temperature, atmosphere, and water
pressure and flow rate during long-term (many months) experiments.
The tanks are instrumented with pressure and temperature sensors
and sampling ports for liquid, solid, and gas phases.
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status: Soil samples have been collected from an uncontaminated
site. Batch sorption experiments with chlorophenol to determine
sorption kinetics and equilibrium have been completed. Continuous
flow column experiments are underway and should be completed by
February 1990. The results will be used to validate numerical
models of movement and transformation, following which larger-scale
studies in the tanks are planned.
In-aitu Biological Treatment of Aromatics in Groundvater:
P.L. Mccarty and M. Reinhard, Stanford University
Goal: This project attempts to evaluate the rate of aromatic
hydrocarbon biotransformation under methanogenic, sulfate, and
nitrate reducing conditions under field and laboratory conditions,
and to assess the potential of these processes for aquifer
remediation.
Rationale: Although most gasoline constituents are readily
degraded under aerobic conditions, the groundwater environment
impacted by the gasoline spills is typically anaerobic, thus
precluding aerobic degradation pathways. In the absence of oxygen,
there is the potential that alternate electron acceptors, such as
nitrate, sulfate, and carbon dioxide may be utilized.
Approach: This study is a combined field and laboratory study.
The laboratory study concerned with anaerobic biotransformation is
being conducted at the Center. Laboratory studies concerned with
aerobic conditions are being conducted at the Laboratory of the
Orange County Water District (OCWD) in Southern California under
the direction of Dr. Harry F. Ridgway. The field study is being
conducted at the Seal Beach field site which is near the OCWD
laboratory. In the field studies, degradation rates will be
determined in 30 L bioreactors which will be emplaced in the ground
at the site. Both aerobic and anaerobic conditions will be
studied.
Status: The laboratory studies have focused on the growth
conditions of denitrifying microorganisms which utilize aromatic
hydrocarbons as their sole carbon and energy source. At the field
site, a mobile laboratory is being developed and within the next
few months, the reactors will be installed and instrumented.
In-8itu Biorraediation of Chlorinated Aliphatic* with
Methanotrophss P.L. Mccarty and P.V. Roberts, Stanford University
Goal: The goal is to evaluate the feasibility of remediating a
groundwater contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE),
dichloroethylene (DCE), and vinyl chloride (VC) through stimulation
of the growth of indigenous methane oxidizing bacteria
(methanotrophs).
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Rational*: A four-year field steady of in-fiitil biodegradation of
chlorinated solvents by methanotrophs at the U.S. Navy Moffett
Field site, funded by EPA and conducted by Stanford University,
demonstrated the potential of this process for aquifer clean-up.
Stimulation of the growth of indigenous methanotrophs at this site
by injection of water containing dissolved methane and oxygen
resulted in in-situ degradation of chlorinated aliphatic compounds
injected into the aquifer. The next step in application to
full-scale is a technical and economic evaluation of the
feasibility of the process, as is being conducted here.
Approach: A contaminated groundwater site in Michigan was found
to have suitable conditions of aquifer homogeneity and
permeability, distribution of TCE, DCE, and VC contaminants, and
access to make in-situ bioremediation attractive. Aseptic samples
of aquifer material from two separate wells were obtained from this
site with the assistance of the EPA Robert S. Kerr Environmental
Research Laboratory, Ada, Oklahoma. The possible presence of
indigenous methanotrophic bacteria and their rates of chlorinated
chemical transformation are being determined through laboratory
studies with these materials, as are their sorptive properties.
Computer simulation models will be used to help design a treatment
strategy that will be used by the engineering firm involved in a
comparative evaluation of in-situ bioremediation with other
treatment alternatives.
Status: Aquifer samples have been obtained and laboratory studies
have been initiated. The feasibility study should be completed by
June 1990.
The Effect of surfactants on Biodegradation of Chlorinated
Biphenyls in Soils: M. Reinhard and P.L. Mccarty, Stanford
University
Goal; The goal of this study is to develop a data base which can
be used to judge the feasibility of surfactant treatment of PCB
contaminated soils, and to study the effect of surfactants on the
aerobic biotransformation of PCBs.
Rationale: Addition of surfactants has been proposed as a means
to desorb and solubilize hydrophobic contaminants in groundwater
aquifers and from contaminated soils. Because sorption of PCBs
onto solids Bay slow or prevent biotransformation, solubilization
using surfactants followed by biotransformation is a potential
treatment scheme to purify soils contaminated by PCBs.
Approach: First, PCB sorption onto a sorbent such as diatomaceous
earth will be studied using a single PCB congener, such as para-
chlorobiphenyl (PCB). Then, a microbial culture will be developed
(derived from the Palo Alto Sewage Treatment Plant) which is
capable of degrading PCB. Finally, the effect of surfactant on the
biotransformation rate will be studied with and without solids
added.
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statust Currently, analytical quality assurance and control
protocols are being developed and current models of the
solubilization process are being reviewed. The expected completion
date is September 1990.
FASTCHEM Applications and Sensitivity Analysis: P.K. Kitanidis
and D.L. Freyberg, Stanford University
Goalt FASTCHEM is a collection of computer programs which can be
used to predict the advection, dispersion, and geochemical
transformation of chemicals emanating from utility waste disposal
sites. The objectives of the work to be performed include: (i)
quantifying the sensitivity and uncertainty of predicted
parameters, and (2) developing a set of computer programs which
apply state-of-the art estimation methods for the interpolation of
parameters from sparse measurements.
Rationalei Amendments to the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act in 1984 and reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act in
1986 have prompted the formulation of several new regulations to
protect groundwater quality. To respond to new regulations and to
develop a capability to assess the potential success of remedial
actions, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has supported
the development of the interim hydrogeochemical modeling package
FASTCHEM. This package of codes can be used to simulate the
advection, dispersion, and chemical attenuation of inorganic
chemicals that may be leached from electric utility waste disposal
sites. EPRI is interested in determining the applicability the
model and in incorporating subroutines for the utilization of data.
Approach: The model's sensitivity and uncertainty will be
evaluated using first-order analysis and Monte Carlo simulations.
Methods for incorporating available measurements will be based on
linear estimation methods.
status: Since the project was initiated in September 1989, the
computer codes have been installed and tested. Next, the
sensitivity and uncertainty of predictions will be evaluated.
Long Term Cneaical Transformation of 1,1,1-Trichloroethane (TCA)
and Freon 113 under Aquifer Conditions: M.Reinhard and P.L.
Mccarty, Stanford University
Goal: This project is designed to determine the transformation rate
of TCA and Freon 113 under conditions closely simulating those
of a contaminated aquifer.
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Rational*i It is generally difficult to determine transformation
rates occurring at contaminated field sites from field data because
of uncertainty about the input, the variability of the data, and
the lack of mass balances. Moreover, extrapolation of laboratory
data obtained in pure water to field conditions is fraught with
uncertainty, because environmental factors such as the role of
sorption and nucleophilic and redox active reagents are not
considered in pure water experiments. Therefore, laboratory
experiments are needed which simulate the natural conditions, and
which allow us to determine products, accurate mass balances, and
rates.
Approacht TCA and Freon 113 will be added to flame sealed vials
which contain groundwater and sediment from the site and the
organic contaminants at realistic concentrations. The glass vials
will be incubated at ambient temperature and disappearance and
product formation will be analyzed at regular intervals over a
period of four years.
Status; All quality assurance and control protocols have been
developed, the soil and the water have been characterized, and the
rate experiment will be set up in the near future. The project
should be completed in 1993.
Mechanistic studies
Anaerobic Microbial Transformations of Romocyclic and Hetarocyclic
Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons: 0. Grbic'-Galic', Stanford
University
Goali Recently, this research team demonstrated that monoaromatic
hydrocarbons such as toluene and benzene, and some of the nitrogen-
and sulfur-heterocyclic polynuclear aromatics such as quinoline or
benzothiophene, could be anaerobically degraded by complex
microbial communities derived from groundwater aquifers or from
municipal sludge, under the conditions of methanogenic
fermentation. The goal of this project is to investigate the
capabilities of bacteria under two types of strictly anaerobic
conditions — sulfate-reducing and methanogenic — to transform
polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), more complex nitrogen and
sulfur hetsrocycles, and oxygen heterocycles (NSO-compounds). The
transformation routes, intermediates, and products are to be
studied for single compounds of interest, as well as for mixtures
of compounds, such as occur in real contamination incidents.
Rationale: PAH and NSO, which are constituents of fossil fuels and
creosote and are also formed through incomplete combustion
processes, are common environmental pollutants characterized by
relative chemical stability, toxicity, and potential
carcinogenicity. These compounds had been shown to biodegrade
efficiently due to the activity of aerobic microorganisms, in the
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presence of molecular oxygen which serves as a reactant for the PAH
or NSO oxygenation and also as an ultimate electron acceptor for
the microorganisms. However, oxygen is frequently limited — and
sometimes completely absent — in certain contaminated habitats,
such as numerous ground water aquifers. Therefore, it is of
interest to learn how significant the anaerobic microbial processes
may be in determining the fate of PAH and NSO in anoxic
environments, how complete the anaerobic transformations of these
compounds are, and whether the intermediates and products of these
transformations are more or less hazardous than the parent
compounds.
Approach; It is hypothesized that relatively small PAH and NSO
molecules (such as naphthalene, acenaphthene, acridine,
dibenzothiophene, etc.) are amenable to anaerobic microbial
transformations, and that the transformation routes are similar to
those determined for monoaromatic hydrocarbons and simpler
heterocycles under identical conditions. It is not known how PAH
and NSO influence the transformation of one another in complex
mixtures, where the interactions may range from transformation
inhibition, over sequential transformation, to acceleration
(through cometabolism, or other mechanisms) of transformation of
certain compounds by other compounds in the mixture. In order to
evaluate the hypothesis and answer these questions, batch
microcosms containing single PAH or NSO or mixtures thereof as
substrates, and sulfate or carbon dioxide as electron acceptors,
are being studied. These microcosms contain microbial inocula
derived from PAH- and NSO-contaminated ground water aquifers, or
from stable methanogenic cultures degrading aromatic hydrocarbons,
which were developed in this laboratory. Several different
analytical techniques (gas chromatography, high performance liquid
chromatography, and GC/mass spectrometry) and 14C-labeling of the
substrates, are used to detect and identify the intermediates and
products of transformation, and to follow the degradation of
substrates over time. The most active microcosms will be used to
inoculate larger-size microcosms (batch-fed glass columns
containing saturated aquifer material) in which the transformation
processes on a larger scale can be evaluated. They will be used
also to attempt to enrich stable suspended cultures of the active
microorganisms, in which details of the transformation pathways and
mechanisms of interactions in mixtures can be studied.
Status: Batch microcosm studies are underway and the tested
microbial inocula have been shown to transform some of the model
substrates under anaerobic conditions. Degradation routes for
these compounds are being determined. Upon completion of this
stage of research, the scale-up of microcosms to column size, as
well as enrichment of suspended microbial cultures, will be
undertaken.
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Effect* of Sorption on Biodegradation of Halogenated Organ!cs:
P.L. McCarty and P.V. Roberts, Stanford University
Goa^i The goal of this project is to determine how compound
sorption onto solid surfaces such as soil and sorption media (e.g.,
activated carbon) affects the rates of biological degradation of
organic compounds.
Rational*t Rates of biodegradation of organic compounds are known
to be affected by sorption onto surfaces, but the nature of this
effect is not well understood. Whether it enhances or reduces
transformation rates appears to depend upon properties of the
sorbed compound, the surface to which it is sorbed, and the
biological process involved. Greater knowledge of the effect of
sorption is needed in order to better predict fate of chemicals in
the environment, and to devise treatment schemes where sorption is
involved.
Approach; An experimental approach is being used to determine the
availability of trichloroethylene (TCE) to biological degradation
by methanotrophic bacteria. First, biotransformation kinetics for
methanotrophic oxidation of TCE are being determined, using
existing laboratory cultures derived from the Moffett Field site,
and then parameters associated with sorption kinetics of TCE on a
well-defined synthetic media (silicalite) as well as aquifer solids
are being determined. A numerical model is also being developed
to relate desorption and biotransformation kinetics, using the
hypothesis that transformation rates are directly related to
solution concentration of TCE. If this hypothesis does not prove
correct, then alternative hypotheses that are consistent with
experimental results will be sought and tested.
Statust Preliminary kinetic studies of methanotrophic
transformation of TCE have been completed, as has been the
development of sorption isotherms on aquifer material and
silicalite. Preliminary biodegradation rate studies have also been
conducted with sorbing solids present. Progress is on schedule.
Trace Metal Reaoval Processess J.O. Leckie, Stanford University
Goal: The long term goal of this project is to develop a
mathematical model of mass transport limited adsorption of toxic
trace metal* in porous particles. The premise is that hydrous
metal oxide particles with the proper pore structure can be used
to concentrate and remove the trace metals in engineered processes.
Rationale! Previous experimental work with both porous and
nonporous particles indicates that the porous particles can
dramatically increase the capacity for removal of the trace toxic
metals from solution. The engineering application of particles
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with tailored pore size distributions could provide a means of
removing the trace metals in a sufficiently concentrated form to
allow economic recycle where appropriate.
Approach: The approach taken on this project involves the design
and implementation of a parametric study of the adsorption of
cadmium and selenite onto porous amorphous alumina particles. The
first phase of the project involves the physical-chemical
characterization of the alumina particles, including particle size
distribution, pore size distribution, site density, specific
surface area, surface acidity constants, and the surface
complexation constants for the trace elements. The second and
longest phase will be the experimental work evaluating the mass
transfer limited adsorption process. On the basis of the data
developed in the second phase, a mathematical model describing the
overall physical-chemical process will be developed to allow
simulations over a range of operational variables such as pH, solid
to liquid ratio, and adsorbate and adsorbent concentrations.
Status: Experimental work has begun, with completion expected in
March 1992.
Abiotic Dehalogenation of Haloaliphatio Compounds in Aqueous
Solutions Containing Hydrogen sulfide: M. Reinhard, Stanford
University
Goal: The goal of this project is to study the reactivity of
hydrogen sulfide towards simple haloaliphatic compounds.
Rationale: Relatively little research has been directed towards
studying the rates and pathways of abiotic reactions that may be
significant under anaerobic conditions. Recent research of this
and other laboratories has shown that hydrogen sulfide may promote
the dehalogenation of haloaliphatic contaminants at rates that are
significantly faster than the competing reactions with water, i.e.
hydrolysis and dehydrohalogenation.
Approach; 1,2-Dichloroethane and 1,2-Dibromoethane (EDB) were
reacted in glass ampules under anaerobic and aseptic conditions for
periods of months to years. Products and rates were analyzed using
chromatographic techniques.
Statusi This project was initiated several years ago and was
brought to conclusion under the aegis of the WRHSRC. The results
will be published in Environmental Science and Technology in 1989.
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Training and Technology Transfer
International Symposium on Process** Governing th* Movement and
Fat* of Contaminant* in th« 8ub*urfae* Environment: P.L. Mccarty
and P.V. Roberts, Stanford University
Goal: The goal of this symposium, co-sponsored by the Center and
the International Association on Water Pollution Research and
Control, was to bring together leading scientists and engineers
from around the world to evaluate the current knowledge about the
processes that affect the way in which chemicals interact with the
soil, move with the flow of water and air through the subsurface
environments, and are transformed or degraded by both abiotic and
biotic processes.
Rationale: Basic understanding of such processes is necessary in
order to develop realistic models for the movement and fate of
contaminants in the environment.
Approach: The symposium was held at Stanford University from July
23 to 26, 1989. There were presentations on eight special topics
by invited speakers, twenty-seven additional oral presentations,
and forty-four poster presentations. The symposium focused on the
physical, chemical, and biological processes that are most
important to chemical migration and transformation in the
unsaturated zones above aquifers as well as in the groundwater
zone. This includes information regarding both equilibrium and
rate processes, and the various environmental variables that affect
them. Among the processes of importance that were emphasized at
the symposium were sorption, dissolution, volatilization,
diffusion, multi-phase flow, and abiotic and biotic
transformations. Experimental investigations were stressed, but
presentations were also included that were oriented toward
simulation of transport if they emphasized fundamentals of
processes affecting the transport and fate of contaminants. The
meeting was partially supported financially by EPA, the U.S.
Geological Survey, and the U.S. National Science Foundation.
statue t The symposium went very well, with much valuable
interchange of information. From all indications, the meeting was
highly successful in meeting its objectives.
Fundamental* of Cbeaiatry of Hasardoue Substances, Training Course,
Portland Metropolitan Area: K. Williamson and P. Nelson
Goal: The goal of this course was to meet a need for training
hazardous waste personnel in the electronics industry.
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Rationale* Employees who are involved with management, transport,
or treatment of hazardous substances at manufacturing firms need
a better basic understanding of chemistry related to hazardous
substances in order to address the many hazardous substance issues
with which they are faced.
Approach; The class was held in six 4-hour sessions in the Spring,
1989. A total of 34 individuals completed the course. The class
focused upon chemical nomenclature, hazardous waste identification,
and chemical processes including oxidation, reduction, acid-base
hydrolysis, and precipitation. One session involved a series of
laboratory exercises.
Status: The class provided strong educational development to most
of the participants. The greatest difficulty proved to be meeting
the wide variety of interests and abilities of the students.
Fundamentals of Hazardous Substances, Training Course, Portland
Metropolitan Area: K. Williamson, P. Nelson, J. Istok, and
S. Woods
Goal; The goal of this course was to provide professional level
education concerning the fate and transport of hazardous materials
to hazardous waste managers, regulatory personnel, and professional
engineers.
Rationale: Many engineers, managers, and regulators who have
degrees in environmental engineering or related fields find a need
now to deal with hazardous substance problems, but have not had
formal training in the current approaches for handling and disposal
of these materials. This course was developed to help correct this
deficiency.
Approach; The class consisted of 10 three-hour sessions in the
Spring, 1989. Twenty-one persons attended the sessions. The
approach was to focus on fate and transport mechanisms including
biodegradation, volatilization, precipitation, oxidation-reduction,
and sorption. A wide variety of organic and inorganic hazardous
substances were described. For each fate and transport mechanism,
an example problem was developed and an above-ground treatment
process was described.
Status; The class successfully provided professional-level
development for the students. Student evaluations were excellent.
Biological Transformation of Chlorinated Solvents in Subsurface
systems, Workshop, Portland Metropolitan Area: P.L. Mccarty,
P.V. Roberts, D. Grbic'-Galic1, and L. Semprini
Goal; The goal of this workshop was to provide information on the
current knowledge concerning chemical movement and fate, and
bioremediation of subsurface environments contaminated with
chlorinated solvents.
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Approach: The workshop was offered at Intel Corporation in
Hillsboro, Oregon, on April 18, 1989, to a variety of attendees
including hazardous substance managers, regulatory personnel,
professional engineers, academic personnel, and graduate students.
The information included physical transport processes, biological
reaction rates and pathways, sorption and desorption processes and
rates, and mathematical modeling of a field application.
Information was provided on a variety of small-molecular-weight
chlorinated solvents.
Status: The workshop was well received. It was decided to repeat
the workshop at other locations within EPA Regions 9 and 10 during
1990.
SUMMARY OF OUTPUTS IN FY 1989
Refereed Journal Articles Published 0
Articles Submitted or In Press 2
Books and Bound Proceedings 1
Chapters in Books or Bound Proceedings 2
Proj ect Reports 0
Conferences and Workshops Held 2
TOTAL 7
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Articles Submitted or In Press
Lee, S.B., J.O. Istok, and S.L. Woods, "A Numerical Model for
Interpreting Results of Column Transport Experiments with
Nonlinear, Nonequilibrium Sorption." Submitted to Computer
and Geosciences. 1989.
Kitanidis, P.K., "Effective Hydraulic Conductivity for
Gradually Varying Flow." Water Resources Research. 1989.
Books and Bound Proceedings
International Symposium on Processes Governing the Movement
and Fate of Contaminants in the Subsurface Environment,
Abstracts, Stanford University, July 23-26, 1989.
Chapters in Other Books or Bound Proceedings
Gorelick, S.M., "Incorporation of Uncertainty Analysis into
Management of Groundwater Quality," Report from the SCOPE
Workshop on Groundwater Contamination, Stanford University,
Stanford, California, July 27-28, 1989.
Gorelick, S.M. and R.M. Gailey, "The Relationship Between
Model Calibration and Engineering Overdesign for Heterogeneous
Aquifers," Proceedings of International Conference on
Calibration and Reliability in Groundwater Modeling, The
Hague, the Netherlands, September 3-6, 1990.
Conferences and Workshops Held
International Conference on Processes Governing the Movement
and Fate of Contaminants in the Subsurface Environment,
Stanford University, July 23-26, 1979.
SCOPE Workshop on Groundwater Contamination, Stanford
University, July 27-29, 1989.
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