Theme: 07. Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS)

Topic Area: 7j. PFAS Conceptual Site Model Approaches

Formatted Title:

More Than Just Pretty Pictures: Using 3-D Visualization Models to Activate Key Decisions and Archive Institutional Knowledge at DoD PFAS Sites

Background/Objectives:

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has identified over 700 installations where it believes PFAS may have been used or potentially released. Current estimates of future cleanup costs are around $2 billion and will likely increase over time. The DoD and its partners are working to develop new innovative technologies in sampling, monitoring, and remediation that can speed cleanup efforts through their Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), Environmental security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP), and other initiatives. Intelligent 3-D visualization and analysis (3DVA) can be a galvanizing “force multiplier” when used in conjunction with other innovative technologies, increasing their effectiveness. Implementing 3DVA in a consistent manner following state-of-the-science best practices across all stages of the project lifecycle can yield huge benefits, including activating key project decisions and saving time, money, and resources. Using 3DVA on DoD PFAS sites can help to accomplish two of the four DoD PFAS Task Force Goals:

Fulfilling DoD’s cleanup responsibility related to PFAS; and
Expanding PFAS-related public outreach

Approach/Activities:

A new paradigm for efficient and intelligent application of 3DVA at PFAS sites was applied to six DoD facilities. 3-D visualization models (3D models) were developed in parallel with project geographic information systems (GIS) and used to visually represent all elements of the conceptual site model (CSM). Relevant historical reports were uploaded to the 3-D models, which are being used as 3-D digital archives. Tabular data are linked to 3-D features in the model by a SQL database running in the background, allowing users to click and retrieve data tables. 3-D models are manipulated and interrogated and used to drive live video conference calls with project experts to ensure team members are on the same page and to activate key decisions. Animations are used extensively to convey data rich site processes and control the narrative. The 3-D models are no longer afterthoughts but are integral parts of the projects’ quality assurance programs, with 3-D modeling guidance documents (e.g., Data Management Plans, Work Plans, QAPPs) ensuring consistent outputs/deliverables, and 3-D models used to identify data gaps and reduce decision risk. Finally, 3-D models and datasets are being managed and shared on project dashboards with clients and other stakeholders for convenience and transparency.

Results/Lessons Learned:

Recent improvements in 3DVA software abilities (e.g., faster processing, less expensive, more user-friendly) have finally set the stage for a true integration of 3DVA into the traditional PFAS investigation and remediation project. Geospatial data layers can now be uploaded into a 3-D model in about the same time as it takes to import these layers into conventional 2-D GIS or CAD systems. Using the 3-D models as digital archives reduced rework, leveraged past investigation insights, helped limit impacts of staff turnover, and helped bring new team members/stakeholders up to speed quickly on projects. Innovative methods of consuming 3-D models continue to grow, with augmented reality and stereoscopic screens now available in addition to traditional computer screens or 3-D printed physical models. 3-D models are vital tools in achieving sustainability and environmental justice/public outreach goals as they are proven to save resources (lower carbon footprint) and are crucial in conveying complex site plans to community members of all backgrounds (better engagement). 3-D models are bridging the gaps among consultants, clients, regulators, and the public by presenting easy-to-understand visualizations of complex site processes and treatment/cleanup plans at DoD PFAS sites, resulting in quicker, less costly, more thorough, and safer, PFAS investigation and remediation.

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Benjamin Landers