Building on the success of bioremediation and phytoremediation technologies, Natural and Enhanced Remediation Systems explores remediation techniques that use the beneficial effects provided by Mother Nature. Written by a leader in the industry, the book provides state-of-the-art information on natural and enhanced remediation techniques such as monitored natural attenuation, in situ reactive zones, bio-augmentation, in situ chemical oxidation, phytoremediation, constructed wetlands, and engineered phyto-covers. It contrasts the new paradigms in remediation with the conventional remedies of the past two decades. It addresses theoretical and design aspects and includes case studies that illustrate implementation and performance details. The appendixes contain substantial information and data usually found scattered in many different books and research papers, making Natural and Enhanced Remediation Systems a comprehensive resource on cutting-edge remediation technologies.
Introduction
The Concept of Risk
Evolution of Understanding of Fate and Transport in Natural Systems
Evolution of Remediation Technologies
References
Contaminant and Environmental Characteristics
Introduction
Contaminant Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
References
Monitored Natural Attenuation
Introduction
Approaches for Evaluating Natural Attenuation
Patterns vs. Protocols
Processes Affecting Natural Attenuation of Compounds
Monitoring and Sampling for Natural Attenuation
References
In Situ Reactive Zones
Introduction
Engineered Anaerobic Systems
Engineered Aerobic Systems
In Situ Chemical Oxidation Systems
Nano-Scale Fe (0) Colloid Injection within an IRZ
References
Phytoremediation
Introduction
Chemicals in the Soil-Plant System
Types of Phytoremediation
Phytoremediation Design
References
Constructed Treatment Wetlands
Introduction
Types of Constructed Wetlands
Microbial and Plant Communities of a Wetland
Wetland Soils
Contaminant Removal Mechanisms
Treatment Wetlands for Groundwater Remediation
References
Engineered Vegetative Landfill Covers
Historical Perspective on Landfill Practices
The Role of Caps in the Containment of Wastes
Conventional Landfill Covers
Landfill Dynamics
Alternative Landfill Cover Technology
Phyto-Cover Technology
Phyto-Cover Design
Cover System Performance
Example Application
Summary of Phyto-Cover Water Balance
General Phyto-Cover Maintenance Activities
Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Schedule
Specific Operational Issues
References
Appendix A: Physical Properties of Some Common Environmental Contaminants
Appendix B: Useful Information for Biogeochemical Sampling
Appendix C: Common and Scientific Names of Various Plants
Biography
Suthan S. Suthersan
"Dr. Suthersan's strategic acumen, creativity and technical expertise have enabled me to save many millions of dollars for my company through the application of Natural Remediation Systems … if remediation stakeholders adopt the principles and systems described in this book, billions of dollars will be saved while cleanup risks will be more safely reduced and the ecologic and economic value of contaminated lands will be more effectively restored." -Timothy A. Bent, Director of Environmental Affairs, Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc.
"Dr. Suthersan is the most innovative thinker active in the field of remediation technology research. But what is even more remarkable is his ability to translate his scientific findings into actual, practical, applications. His project strategies have proven impressive to regulators for their effectiveness and to clients for their substantial cost efficiency. This book captures some of this brilliance and should serve to broadcast this convergence of regulatory and business ideals to a wider cross-section of the environmental community." - James Vines, Partner, Baker Worthington Bearman & Caldwell Law Firm (Environmental Practice Area)
"Dr. Suthan S. Suthersan has shared his wealth of experience of practical applications of innovative environmental remediation technologies as part of our corporate remediation strategic business planning process resulting in improved outcomes in achieving our environmental policy, risk management and business goals." - Mr. Richard Ramirez, Vice President/Head Corporate Remediation, Americas, Celanese AG, Charlotte, North Carolina