Topic Area: 9c. Remediation and Management of Petroleum Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Sites

Formatted Title:

From Characterization to Remediation: A Time-Sensitive Hydrogeophysical Framework for Targeted LNAPL Remediation

Background/Objectives:

Contaminated sites present inherently complex systems, where spatial heterogeneity in contaminant distribution and hydrogeological properties complicates characterization and remediation planning. Insufficient spatial resolution and under-sampling remain critical challenges in addressing hydrocarbon contamination. This study aims to overcome these issues by employing a dynamic, multi-source approach that integrates geophysical, hydrochemical, and stratigraphic data into a comprehensive 3D hydrogeophysical conceptual site model (CSM). The objectives are to enhance site characterization, design effective remediation strategies targeting light non-aqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs), and evaluate the performance of an innovative reagent-based remediation strategy. The research integrates various data sources for the stepwise refinement of a multi-source and geology-focused CSM unveiling the mechanisms of pollutant migration in groundwater and orienting the deployment of a remediation strategy in line with the principles of remediation geology.

Approach/Activities:

The study leverages high-resolution data from multiple sources, including stratigraphic boreholes, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) surveys, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and hydrochemical monitoring. These datasets are compiled into an interactive big-data package for real-time 3D modeling, supporting characterization and remediation planning. A field experiment was designed using the integrated model, involving the injection of PetroCleanze® and RegenOx® to enhance desorption and stimulate in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) of hydrocarbons. Geophysical monitoring, particularly ERT, traced reagent migration pathways and identified preferential flow zones, while hydrochemical sampling quantified pollutant dynamics and transformations. Non-invasive monitoring aimed to provide insights into reagent distribution and the effectiveness of contaminant mobilization and removal through hydraulic recovery techniques.

Giorgio Cassiani

Affiliation

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From Characterization to Remediation: A Time-Sensitive Hydrogeophysical Framework for Targeted LNAPL Remediation