Site Characterization: What Should We Measure, Where (When?), and Why?
Abstract
Site characterization represents the initial phase of the active monitoring process that occurs as part of intrinsic organic contaminant bioremediation efforts. Initial characterization work sets the stage for evaluating the progress of the natural transformation of contaminants. The following have frequently been observed: parent compound disappearance, active microbial populations with biotransformation capabilities, and the appearance or disappearance of organic and inorganic constituents that provide evidence of bioremediation at contaminated sites. Quantitative evidence is lacking, however, for net removal of toxic compounds from complex mixtures solely by biological processes. This is due largely to the reliance on monitoring well samples for evidence of biological activity, rather than on identifying the mass of contaminants (and total reactive organic carbon) and estimating the net removal/transformation of reactive compounds over time. A dynamic approach to quantitative site characterization is needed that recognizes intrinsic bioremediation as an active cleanup approach. Careful attention must be paid to the identification of the three-dimensional distribution of contaminant mass. Then the correspondence between contaminant distribution and favorable physical, geochemical, and microbial conditions in the subsurface over time provides a basis for net contaminant-removal estimates. Mere adaptations of detective ground-water monitoring networks are insufficient for quantitative evaluation of intrinsic bioremediation technologies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA351136
Entities
People
- Michael J. Barcelona
Organizations
- University of Michigan