In Situ Chemical Oxidation

Understanding Chemical Oxidation in Groundwater Remediation

Chemical oxidation is a proven method used for groundwater remediation for several decades. This technique involves the injection of chemicals into the ground, aiming to reduce the level of contaminants present in groundwater. This approach has found favor as an alternative to more traditional technologies such as air sparging or pump-and-treat methods. The selection of chemicals and the delivery methods depend on several factors, such as the type of contaminants present and their location within the soil and the groundwater column. Other determinants include the site’s layout and the subsurface’s characteristics.

The Power of In Situ Chemical Oxidation (ISCO)

ISCO, short for In Situ Chemical Oxidation, involves the injection of strong chemical oxidizers directly into the ground. These oxidizers are designed to treat a range of contaminants, including petroleum, chlorinated solvents, and pesticides. Commonly used oxidants for ISCO include permanganate, persulfate, and hydrogen peroxide. Typically, these oxidants are introduced into the groundwater via injection wells, where they react chemically with contaminants to produce harmless byproducts. The effectiveness of the process lies in the quick interaction of reactants with contaminants; however, ensuring the reactants reach the contaminant remains a challenge. By recirculating the oxidant and groundwater between multiple wells, contact time and treatment speed can be significantly improved, especially in cases where contamination spreads across large areas.

EnviroTrac’s Customized Approach to ISCO Treatment and Delivery

At EnviroTrac, our team of experienced engineers, scientists, and hydrogeologists collaborate closely with product manufacturers to design a customized treatment and delivery system. Our approach is centered on optimizing performance based on site conditions, the contaminants present, subsurface characteristics, and hydrogeology. As a turnkey contractor, we employ professional staff to safely install, operate, and monitor the delivery system, handling everything from injection wells to chemical procurement, mixing, injection, and post-injection monitoring.

Regulatory Compliance: A Fundamental Aspect of ISCO

Introducing any substance into groundwater necessitates interaction with regulatory agencies. Fortunately, EnviroTrac’s long-standing relationships with federal, state, and local agencies, coupled with our experience navigating the rules and regulations pertinent to underground injection, facilitate the expedient approval process needed to utilize injection technology.

Comprehensive ISCO Services by EnviroTrac

Our team of seasoned technicians and professionals delivers comprehensive services related to ISCO. These services include hydrogeologic testing, bench scale and field testing, full-scale design and construction, regulatory agency approvals, injection well installation, trenching and piping, HDPE welding, chemical storage, handling and mixing secondary containment, delivery system controls, recirculation, performance testing, and groundwater monitoring. Trust EnviroTrac to navigate the complexities of ISCO and ensure your remediation project’s successful outcome.