IN SITU POLYMERIZTION OF DNAPLS

EPA has targeted DNAPLS, dense nonaqueous phase liquids, which sink below and leach into the groundwater as a major problem inhibiting successful cleanup of contaminated groundwater. The proposed program will develop a containment process, dubbed GRIP, for Gamma (Y) Ray Induced Polymerization, which will convert the organics in the DNAPLS to an intractable, insoluble solid fixed in the soil. GRIP will treat a variety of chemical pollutants, does not require physical contact between the radiation source and the pollutant, is low temperature, and leaves no residue from the processing. The Phase I work will subject samples of trichloroethylene (TCE) to GRIP to determine the effect of total dose, dose rate, and of solids and benign chemical additives to TCE samples. The polymeriztion rate, degree of polymerization, and solubility of polymer will be determined. A 10 cubic foot test cell designed to model a DNAPL will be subjected to GRIP using radiographic sources. The results will be used to model the system to determine the optimal source size and placement for scaled up treatments planned in Phase II. In Phase II, this technique will be combined with the use of cone penetrometers for on-site treatment of DNAPLS.