Delivery of Nanoparticles and Microbial Reagents to Deep Soil for In-Situ Remediation of Contaminated Sites

Recent studies show that zero-valent metal nanoparticles, metal-oxide nanoparticles, and microbial reagents are among the most promising remediants for the detoxification of heavily contaminated sites that contain hydrocarbons, halogenated hydrocarbons and metals. Unfortunately, it is difficult to treat large volumes of soil with a single injection because nanoparticles and microbial reagents are easily filtered out by absorption and flocculation on the charged surfaces of minerals and soil. During this project, TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes to develop a technology to deliver stabilized nanoparticles and microbial reagents that have improved transport properties and reduced absorption in soil and sediments. During this project TDA will apply its expertise in nanoparticle surface modification and stabilization in liquid media to specific nanoparticles that have been proven to be good environmental remediants on a laboratory scale. In Phase II TDA will demonstrate this technology in a field assessment at a pilot site. This technology will be useful for the reactive in-situ cleanup of contaminated deep soil sites.