Chemical Oxidation

OVERVIEW

One of the first in-situ methods of environmental remediation after bioremediation, Chemical Oxidation uses powerful oxidizing compounds to chemically treat contaminated soil and groundwater in place, or “in-situ”.

When oxidant solutions, such as potassium permanganate or sodium persulphate, are injected into the subsurface, they spread out and react with the contaminants that are present in the soil and groundwater. A chemical reaction occurs that destroys the contaminants by breaking them down and converting them into less-toxic compounds and harmless by-products, such as carbon dioxide and salt water. Secondary aerobic bioremediation can then take place due to the highly oxygenated or aerobic conditions created in the aquifer.

Oxidation is the opposite chemical reaction to reduction, either of which can be used for environmental remediation, depending on the contaminants of concern and geochemistry of the site.

Vertex specializes in the design, implementation and optimization of in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) remedial programs. Geologic environments that Vertex staff has implemented ISCO programs in include:

  • Fractured rock
  • Glacial till
  • Sand and gravel deposits
  • Silt and clay
  • Karst

COMPOUNDS TREATED

Compounds treated using ISCO include:

  • Chlorinated ethenes (PCE, TCE, DCE, VC, etc.)
  • Chlorinated ethanes (TCA, DCA, etc.)
  • MTBE & 1,4-dioxane
  • BTEX and petroleum hydrocarbons
  • PAHs
  • Heavy metals
  • PCBs
  • Phenols

Injection-along-CN-Rail-line

EXPERIENCE

The keys to the successful implementation of ISCO are choosing the right oxidant and delivering the oxidant to the contaminant(s). Vertex has developed injection methods that effectively deliver the oxidant to the contaminant in a wide variety of geologic environments. Vertex offers clients a choice of oxidants and will work with clients to choose the most appropriate remedial amendment for their needs. Vertex staff has experience with:

  • Potassium and sodium permanganate
  • Persulphate
  • Percarbonate
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Modified Fenton’s Reagent
  • Ozone
  • Oxygen
  • Nitrate

Vertex combines strong theoretical understanding with practical experience to properly plan and implement the right remedial program for your site. Selecting Vertex to undertake your remediation project allows you to access a wealth of in‑situ remediation knowledge and experience

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