Site Characterization and Monitoring Technologies
The site characterization and monitoring case studies document experiences and lessons learned in 144 field demonstrations and full-scale uses of innovative technologies for site characterization and monitoring. The case studies, organized into the categories listed below, provide information that can help project managers, technology providers, consulting engineers, and other interested parties in identifying the most useful options for determining the type, magnitude, and extent of site contamination, which is integral to effective remediation decision-making.
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Contaminant Analyses | |
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Organic Chemical Characterization | |
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Inorganic Chemical Characterization | |
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PCB/Pesticides Characterization | |
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Explosives Characterization | |
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Radionuclide Characterization | |
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Unexploded Ordnance Characterization | |
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Triad-Related Strategies/Techniques | |
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Field-Based Strategies/Direct Push/Cone Penetrometer | |
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Geophysical Techniques | |
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Surface (EM, Radiation, GPR) | |
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In Situ/Borehole | |
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Air Emissions | |
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Miscellaneous/Leak Detection | |
Contaminant Analyses
Organic Chemical Characterization
Bladder Pump and Pump Cycle Controller for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999, at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The Micro-Flo bladder pump consists of an internal flexible bladder that is
situated within a stainless steel body pump. The pump is lowered into the well and the bladder is
filled with water from the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the standing water column. Once the
bladder has been filled, compressed air or nitrogen gas drives the water through Teflon tubing to
the pump and then to the surface, causing the compression of the bladder. The pumping sequence is
regulated using a pneumatic controller positioned at the wellhead to achieve the desired sample
flow rate.
Download (434KB/46pp/PDF)
Diffusion Membrane Samplers for Groundwater
This report is part of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series and
presents the results from a 1999 Engineering Field Division South pilot test, using diffusion
samplers at Naval Support Activity Mid-South to collect groundwater samples containing VOCs,
without disturbing the groundwater. The diffusion samplers consist of polyethylene bags containing
deionized water, which are submerged in a well and allowed to equilibrate. The samplers are
removed and the water samples may be analyzed.
Download (71KB/2pp/PDF)
Direct Sampling Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry for Soil and Groundwater
Direct sampling ion trap mass spectrometry (DSITMS) introduces sample materials directly into an
ion trap mass spectrometer by a simple interface, such as a capillary restrictor or a polymer
membrane. Typically, little, if any, sample preparation or chromatic separation of the sample
constituents is required. The objective of DSITMS is rapid detection and quantitative measurement
of VOCs and SVOCs in groundwater, soil, and gaseous remediation streams at hazardous waste sites.
DSITMS has been used at numerous DOE and DoD sites over the past few years; this report focuses on
three of the applications for analysis of groundwater.
Download (622KB/50pp/PDF)
Emerging Sensor Technologies for Facilitating Long-Term Groundwater Monitoring of
VOCs Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by EPA's Technology Innovation Program, provides information about the
status of emerging sensor technologies for facilitating long-term monitoring of VOCs in
groundwater. Technologies consist of those that provide in situ sampling and analysis of VOCs in
groundwater (i.e., within a monitoring well); commercialized technologies that automate both
sampling and above-ground analysis; and hand-held or otherwise field-portable instruments that can
be used for analysis at the well where the sample is obtained. The report discusses 10
technologies, including specific products, expected cost, and project contacts.
Download (594KB/61pp/PDF)
Field Portable GC/MS with Purge and Trap device for Groundwater and Soil and Direct
Injection for Soil Gas
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. Field
demonstrations were conducted in July and September 1995 at the U.S. Department of Energy's
Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina and at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan.
The primary target analytes in water, soil, and soil gas included trichloroethene,
tetrachloroethene, benzene, toluene, and xylene. The SpectraTrak 672 is a GC/MS system that
provides laboratory-quality performance in a transportable package. The SpectraTrak 672 may be
used to provide rapid screening data or laboratory quality confirmatory analysis in the field. The
gas chromatograph separates the sample extract into individual components and the mass
spectrometer ionizes each component, which provides the energy to fragment the molecules into
characteristic ions. The ions are separated by mass, which is used to identify and quantify each
component in the sample.
Download (1.8MB/97pp/PDF)
Field Portable GC/MS with Spray-and-Trap Water Sampler for Groundwater, Direct Injection for
Soil Gas, and Heated Headspace Analysis for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. Field
demonstrations were conducted in July and September 1995 at the U.S. Department of Energy's
Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina and at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan.
The primary target analytes in water, soil and soil gas included trichloroethene,
tetrachloroethene, benzene, toluene, and xylene. The EM640 is a GC/MS system that provides
laboratory-quality performance in a transportable package. The EM640 may be used to provide rapid
screening data or laboratory quality confirmatory analysis in the field. The gas chromatograph
separates the sample extract into individual components and the mass spectrometer ionizes each
component, which provides the energy to fragment the molecules into characteristic ions. The ions
are separated by mass, which is used to identify and quantify each component in the sample.
Download (1MB/105pp/PDF)
Field-Portable GC with Electron Capture Detection for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted at DOE's Savannah River Site near Aiken, South Carolina and the
McClellan Air Force Base near Sacramento, California in September 1997 using groundwater samples
containing trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
1,2-dichloropropane, and trans-1,3-dichloropropene. The Voyager is a portable gas chromatograph
which separates the sample into individual components. The electron capture detector measures the
change in electron current from a sealed radioactive source as compounds exit the gas column.
Compounds are identified by matching the column retention time of known controlled target
compounds to those of the sample.
Download (614KB/84pp/PDF)
Field-Portable GC with Electron Capture Detection and Computer Notebook for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted at DOE's Savannah River Site near Aiken, South Carolina and the
McClellan Air Force Base near Sacramento, California in September 1997 using water samples
containing trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
1,2-dichloropropane, and trans-1,3-dichloropropene. The Scentograph II incorporates a purge and
trap unit, a GC, and a notebook computer for analysis of VOCs in water. The Scentograph II
contains a gas column, which separates the sample into individual components. The electron capture
detector measures the change in electron current from a sealed radioactive source as compounds
exit the gas column. Compounds are identified by matching the column retention time of known
controlled target compounds to those of the sample.
Download (564KB/81pp/PDF)
Field-Portable GC/MS with Headspace Sampling Accessory for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in September 1997 at DOE's Savannah River Site near Aiken, South
Carolina and the McClellan Air Force Base near Sacramento, California using groundwater samples
containing trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
1,2-dichloropropane, and trans-1,3-dichloropropene. The field portable HAPSITE with headspace
sampling accessory combines gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and allows the rapid
separation and identification of compounds in complex mixtures. Gas chromatography separates the
sample into individual components, which are introduced to the electron impact source module of
the spectrometer, where the molecules are fragmented into ions by an electron beam. The ion
fragments are further separated by mass and detected by an electron multiplier, which allows each
component to be identified.
Download (527KB/79pp/PDF)
GC with Purge-and-Trap Sample Introduction Method for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in September 1997 at DOE's Savannah River Site, near Aiken, South
Carolina and the McClellan Air Force Base, near Sacramento, California using groundwater samples
containing trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
1,2-dichloropropane, and trans-1,3-dichloropropene. The Model 4100 incorporates a purge and trap
sample introduction method for analysis of VOCs in water. The instrument is a single-column GC
with programmable temperature control and a surface wave detector. The system uses short,
capillary GC columns and a fast-response detector to finish the chromatogram in less than 30
seconds.
Download (518KB/78pp/PDF)
GORE-SORBER Grab Sampler for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999 at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The Gore-Sorber module consists of a water-impermeable membrane surrounding
an adsorbent material that is used to collect volatile and semi-volatile compounds in water. The
module consists of a microporous membrane cord and four separate adsorbents consisting of
polymeric and carbonaceous resins, which have an affinity for a broad range of VOCs and SVOCs. The
membrane is hydrophobic and prohibits the transfer of water across the membrane, while
facilitating vapor transfer, allowing VOC and SVOC vapors to penetrate the sorbent module and
collect on the adsorbent material. The sampling module is attached to a string and weighted. The
module is then lowered into a well and left in place for 48 hours. Upon retrieval the samples are
placed in airtight containers and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Download (862KB/53pp/PDF)
Guidance on the Use of Passive-Vapor-Diffusion Samplers to Detect Volatile Organic Compounds
in Ground-Water-Discharge Areas, and Example Applications in New England
This report describes the use of polyethylene-membrane passive-vapor-diffusion (PVD) samplers to
detect and identify volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in sediments at nine hazardous waste sites
in New England with varying hydrologic settings. PVD samplers consist of an empty glass vial
enclosed in two layers of polyethylene membrane tubing. When placed in sediments, the air in the
vial equilibrates with VOCs in the pore water, and analysis of the vapors provides information
about the VOCs present in the sediment. The sites evaluated in New England included rivers,
streams, ponds, wetlands, and coastal shorelines. Results of PVD sampling at these sites
confirmed the presence and extent of VOC-contaminated groundwater discharge areas where
contaminated groundwater was known, and identified areas of VOC-contaminated groundwater that were
previously unknown. VOCs detected were primarily chlorinated and petroleum hydrocarbons.
Download (25.8MB/91pp/PDF)
Kabis Sampler Grab Sampler for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999, at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The Kabis Sampler is a discrete-level, grab sampler. The samplers have a
removable top into which either one (Model I) or three (Model II) 40-mL VOA vials are inserted
prior to deployment into the well. The sampler is attached to a measuring tape and is manually
lowered into the well. When the sampler is held stationary in the water column at the desired
sampling depth, it fills under hydrostatic pressure. Air exits the exhaust port as the sample
vials fill with water and the vials are flushed with approximately 6 vial volumes prior to the
collection of the final volume. Once the vials have been filled, the sampler is retrieved and the
vials can be removed, preserved, and capped.
Download (510KB/50pp/PDF)
Multi-gas Photoacoustic Infrared Monitor for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted at DOE's Savannah River Site near Aiken, South Carolina and the
McClellan Air Force Base near Sacramento, California in September 1997 using groundwater samples
containing trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
1,2-dichloropropane, and trans-1,3-dichloropropene. The field portable Type 1312 uses
photoacoustic spectroscopy to detect CVOCs in the headspace of a water sample. The vapors from the
equilibrium headspace of a stirred water sample are circulated through the instrument's
measurement cell. The gas in the cell is irradiated with electromagnetic energy at frequencies
that correspond to resonant vibration frequencies of VOC compounds in the gas, causing a portion
of the resulting energy to become excited to a higher vibrating state. Following the kinetic
energy decay as the molecules relax back to a lower energy state, an acoustic wave is produced and
measured with a high-sensitivity microphone.
Download (557KB/75pp/PDF)
Multi-level Sampler for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999, at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The Multiprobe 100 is a discrete, multi-level sampler that is designed for
permanent deployment in a well. The instrument works by inserting a lower sampling module into the
water column inside a groundwater monitoring well. The module is filled with water by hydrostatic
pressure and the water sample is pushed up to the upper receiving module by pressurizing the
sample chamber headspace with nitrogen gas. Samples can then either be manually dispensed into
analysis vials for analysis or the system can be connected with an automated analyzer for sample
analysis.
Download (928KB/44pp/PDF)
Real-time VOC Analysis Using a Field Portable
GC/MS Newly Posted!
This report was prepared by EPA's Technology Innovation Program to describe the results from use
of the INFICON HAPSITE gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) to measure VOCs in groundwater
on a real-time basis. The instrument was used by the USACE to analyze groundwater samples
collected in 1999 from soil borings and monitoring wells at the Monterey Peninsula Airport, in
California, for on-site analysis of VOCs, particularly TCE. The results from the on-site analyses
were compared with groundwater samples sent to a conventional off-site laboratory for analysis.
The HAPSITE instrument was used again at the airport in 2001 for real-time characterization of the
vertical extent of TCE contamination.
Download (750KB/34pp/PDF)
Passive Soil Gas Sampling System
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field test
was conducted in May and June 1997 at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in
Albert City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The VOCs detected in
soil samples collected from the site include vinyl chloride, cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and PCE.
The Gore-Sorber Screening Survey is a passive soil gas sampler that is designed to collect VOCs
and SVOCs. The survey consists of a microporous membrane cord and four separate adsorbents
consisting of polymeric and carbonaceous resins, which have an affinity for a broad range of VOCs
and SVOCs. The membrane is hydrophobic and prohibits the transfer of water across the membrane,
while facilitating vapor transfer, allowing VOC and SVOC vapors to penetrate the sorbent module
and collect on the adsorbent material. The sampling module is lowered into a pilot hole in the
soil and left in place for 48 hours. Upon retrieval the samples are placed in airtight containers
and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Download (608KB/68pp/PDF)
Ribbon Sampler for DNAPL
The Ribbon NAPL Sampler is a sampling device that can provide detailed delineation of DNAPL in a
borehole. With this device, a dye-impregnated ribbon is inserted in a borehole with an inflatable
liner. The liner is inflated against the wall of the borehole and the ribbon absorbs the DNAPL
that it contacts, resulting a color change in the ribbon. The presence of DNAPL is indicated by
red marks on the ribbon. The Ribbon NAPL Sampler was used for site characterization at three DOE
sites and one Superfund site.
Download (490KB/23pp/PDF)
SamplEase Bladder Pump for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999, at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The SamplEase bladder pump consists of an internal Teflon bladder that is
situated within a stainless steel body pump. The pump is lowered into the well and the bladder is
filled with water from the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the standing water column. Once the
bladder has been filled, compressed air or nitrogen gas drives the water through Teflon tubing to
the pump and then to the surface, causing the compression of the bladder. The pumping sequence is
regulated using a pneumatic controller positioned at the wellhead to achieve the desired sample
flow rate.
Download (380KB/42pp/PDF)
Soil Gas Sampling System for Shallow Deployment
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field test
was conducted in May and June 1997 at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in
Albert City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The VOCs detected in
soil samples collected from the site include vinyl chloride, cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and PCE.
The EMFLUX system consists of a sample cartridge comprised of a sorbent sealed in a mesh screen,
which is placed in a glass vial and manually inserted into a pilot hole in the soil. The sample
cartridge is retrieved by hand and analyzed at a laboratory.
Download (772KB/72pp/PDF)
Surface Acoustic Wave GC System for Air, Soil and Groundwater
DOE/Innovative Technology Summary Report; July 1998 Surface acoustic wave/gas chromatography
(SAW/GC) is a system for collecting real-time field screening data for characterization of vapor
streams contaminated with VOCs. The Model 4100 SAW/GC consists of a handheld module containing a
piezoelectric surface acoustic wave sensor, a capillary GC, an air pump, a 6-way GC valve, and a
support module. The Model 4100 SAW/GC has been demonstrated and evaluated at a number of DOE sites
to verify its performance under a number of different applications. It can be used in a
field-screening mode to produce chromatograms in 10 seconds.
Download (539KB/31pp/PDF)
Tri-Service Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS) Membrane
Interface Probe
This report describes a demonstration of the Membrane Interface Probe (MIP) for analysis of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) conducted primarily at the Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island,
Coronado, CA, from April to May 2000. The purpose was to demonstrate the performance of the MIP
in characterizing the extent of subsurface contamination in a single field deployment. The report
also briefly describes use of the MIP in other demonstrations such as at the DOE Savannah River
Site. The system demonstrated uses a commercially available MIP to collect vapor samples from the
subsurface. Samples are collected through a permeable membrane into a helium carrier gas that
transports the sample above-ground for real-time analysis by an ion trap mass spectrometer. In
this demonstration, a total of 493 groundwater samples from 28 locations were analyzed over a 15
day period.
Download (791KB/35pp/PDF)
Tri-Service Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS) Hydrosparge
Volatile Organic Compound Sensor
This report describes a demonstration of the Hydrosparge volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor
conducted at the Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, Coronado, CA, in July 1998. The purpose
was to demonstrate the performance of the sensor in characterizing the extent of groundwater
contamination in a single field deployment and to evaluate the sensor with regard to the accuracy
of analytical results, time required to characterize the extent of contamination, and reliability
and ruggedness. The Hydrosparge VOC sensor uses a commercially available direct push sampling
tool. The sparge module is lowered directly into the groundwater and purges VOC analytes in situ
with helium gas bubbles. VOCs are carried via tubing to a surface-deployed ion trap mass
spectrometer where the contaminants are analyzed. In this demonstration, a total of 115
groundwater samples from 50 locations were analyzed and compared with the results from sampling 8
conventional groundwater monitoring wells.
Download (611KB/37pp/PDF)
Tri-Service Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS) Thermal
Desorption Sampler for Volatile Organic Compounds
This report describes a demonstration of the Thermal Desorption Sampler (TDS) for analysis of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in soils conducted at five DoD facilities located in diverse
geological conditions from June 1996 to August 1998. The TDS performs field screening to
determine the presence or absence of VOCs within the unstaurated subsurface soils at a site. In
addition, when used with an ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS), the TDS provides identification of
specific analytes and estimates their concentrations. The TDS captures a known volume of
subsurface soil in situ, and purges the VOC contaminants with helium carrier gas while heating the
soil. The VOCs in the carrier gas are then collected on a sorbent trap that concentrates the VOCs
prior to analysis by ITMS. In this demonstration, a total of 170 TDS samples were collected and
analyzed. To verify the TDS results, more than 600 verification samples were collected and
shipped to off-site laboratories for analysis.
Download (442KB/41pp/PDF)
UV Fluorescence for Marine Sediment
This report is part of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In
2000, a deep-water pier at NAS Alameda was investigated using UVF as a technique to detect PAHs in
sediment. UVF is a method of field screening PAH contaminant distribution in sediment and other
matrices. UV light is passed through a sample, which emits light or fluoresces proportional to the
concentration of the fluorescent molecule in the sample. UVF is based on the measurement of
fluorescence observed following UV excitation of organic solvent extracts of sediment.
Download (44KB/2pp/PDF)
Vertical Profiling at Nellis Air Force Base, Site 46, Las Vegas, NV
This report describes results from a field demonstration at Site 46 of Nellis AFB conducted using
PneuLog® vertical profiling technology. Site 46 is the location of JP-4 jet fuel spills
(approximately 2,000 gallons each) that occurred between 1954 and 1982 as well as chlorinated
solvent contamination. The goals for the demonstration were to characterize the soils in the
vadose zone, determine the extent of solvent contamination, install SVE wells and temporarily
operate them on the most highly-contaminated soils, and develop a remedial strategy. Further, the
demonstration was to accomplish these goals in a shorter time period than would be used in a more
traditional site characterization approach. The use of pneumatic well logging and an on-site GC
provided a definitive direction in which to seek the source of TCE observed in groundwater. The
site characterization and SVE design using the PneuLog® approach were completed in approximately 2
months.
Download (940KB/10pp/PDF)
Well Wizard Bladder Pump for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The verification
test was conducted in August 1999, at the U.S. Geological Survey Hydrogeological Instrumentation
Facility at the NASA Stennis Space Center in southwestern Mississippi using water samples
containing 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethene, trichloroethene, benzene, 1,1,2-trichloroethane,
and tetrachloroethene. The Well Wizard bladder pump consists of an internal flexible bladder that
is situated within a stainless steel body pump. The pump is lowered into the well and the bladder
is filled with water from the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the standing water column. Once the
bladder has been filled, compressed air or nitrogen gas drives the water through Teflon tubing to
the pump and then to the surface, causing the compression of the bladder. The pumping sequence is
regulated using a pneumatic controller positioned at the wellhead to achieve the desired sample
flow rate.
Download (429KB/44pp/PDF)
Inorganic Chemical Characterization
Benthic Flux Sampling Device for Marine Sediments
This Environmental Security Technology Certificate Program (ESTCP) report presents the results of
the Benthic Flux Sampling Device (BFSD2), which was used to measure contaminant fluxes from marine
sediments at DOD/Navy sites in San Diego Bay and Pearl Harbor. Variations in chemical and physical
properties of sediment make it predicting contaminant mobility (or flux) challenging. Knowledge of
the degree to which contaminants remobilize is important in selecting cost-effective remedial
actions. The BFSD2 is fundamentally a sample collection instrument to measure contaminant mobility
across the sediment-water interface by isolating a volume of water above the sediment and drawing
samples from the water. The BFSD2 is easily lowered into the water, can operate at depths of 50
meters, and is capable of real-time video imaging. The two demonstrations showed consistent
performance and the ability of the BFSD2 to measure trace metal mobility at distinctly different
sites.
Download (635KB/37pp/PDF)
Bioluminescent Toxicity Test for Marine Sediments
This report is part of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In
1999, a rapid bioassay system (QwikSed), developed by the Navy was field tested at two sites
located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii and Alameda Harbor, California. Both sites were contaminated with
heavy metals but the Pearl Harbor site also contained PAHs. QwikSed bioassays evaluate both acute
and sublethal effects from exposure to a variety of toxic chemicals and may be used as a quick
sediment characterization tool. The basis of detection is to measure a reduction of light from a
bioluminescent dinoflagellate following exposure to toxic chemicals.
Download (144KB/2pp/PDF)
Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS) Heavy Metal Sensors
This report describes the results from an evaluation of three direct push metal sensor
technologies conducted as part of a series of comprehensive side-by-side field and laboratory
evaluations. The three technlogies consist of two sensor systems based on laser-induced breakdown
spectroscopy (LIBS) and one system based on x-ray fluorescence (XRF). Field evaluations were
conducted at the following four sites: Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, MO; Naval Air Station
North Island, CA; Hunters Point Shipyard, CA; and Camp Beller, MS. The three sensors were
compared against results using inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) laboratory analyses of discrete
samples, and showed mean accuracy of 91.7%, 97%, and 97%, respectively, for XRF, fiber optic LIBS,
and downhole laser LIBS.
Download (1.2MB/45pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO
Site in Washington. The primary target analytes in this demonstration were arsenic, copper, lead,
and zinc. The Map Spectrum Analyzer is designed to provide the rapid analysis of metals in soil.
In x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the excited x-ray spectrum are analyzed
directly as an energy proportional response. Energy dispersion allows an efficient, full-spectrum
measurement which enables the use of low intensity excitation sources and compact, battery-powered,
field-portable electronics.
Download (353KB/81pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer for Soil, Sludge, and Solids
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO
Site in Washington. Target analytes in this demonstration were arsenic, copper, lead, barium,
chromium, nickel, cadmium, antimony, and zinc. The X-MET 920 and X-MET 940 are designed to provide
the rapid analysis of metals in soil, sludge, and other solids by using a battery-operated
electronics unit and a solid-state probe system, which houses two excitation sources and a
lithium-drifted silicon detector. In x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the
excited x-ray spectrum are analyzed directly as an energy proportional response.
Download (519KB/93pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer with a Single Radioactive Source for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO
Site in Washington. Target analytes in this demonstration were arsenic, copper, lead, barium,
chromium, and zinc. The Niton XL Spectrum Analyzer is designed to produce quantitative data for
metals contamination in soil by using a single radioactive source and a silicon pin-diode
detrector. In x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the excited x-ray spectrum are
analyzed directly as an energy proportional response. Energy dispersion allows an efficient,
full-spectrum measurement which enables the use of low intensity excitation sources and compact,
battery-powered, field-portable electronics.
Download (641KB/93pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer with Lithium-Drifted Silicon Detector for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO
Site in Washington. Target analytes in this demonstration were arsenic, copper, lead, barium,
chromium, nickel, iron, cadmium, antimony, and zinc. The SEFA-P Analyzer is designed to provide
the rapid analysis of metals in soil by using three radioactive sources with a lithium-drifted
silicon detector. In x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the excited x-ray
spectrum are analyzed directly as an energy proportional response. Energy dispersion allows an
efficient, full-spectrum measurement which enables the use of low intensity excitation sources and
compact, battery-powered, field-portable electronics.
Download (427KB/85pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer with Surface Analysis Probe System for Soil, Sludge, and
Solids
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO
Site in Washington. Target analytes in this demonstration were arsenic, copper, lead, barium,
chromium, cadmium, antimony, and zinc. The X-MET 920-MP is designed to provide the rapid analysis
of metals in soil, sludge, and other solids by using a laptop computer, an electronics unit, and a
surface analysis probe system, which houses one excitation source and a gas filled proportional
counter detector. In x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the excited x-ray
spectrum are analyzed directly as an energy proportional response. Energy dispersion allows an
efficient, full-spectrum measurement which enables the use of low intensity excitation sources and
compact, battery-powered, field-portable electronics.
Download (420KB/88pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzers with Mercuric Iodide Semiconductor Detectors for Lead and Other
Metals in Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The field
demonstration was conducted in April 1995 using the Spectrace TN 9000 and Spectrace TN Pb Analyzer
at two sites: the RV Hopkins Site in Iowa and the ASARCO Site in Washington. Target analytes for
the TN 9000 were arsenic, copper, lead, barium, chromium, nickel, antimony, and zinc, while the TN
Pb Analyzer targeted arsenic, copper, lead, chromium, and zinc. The TN 9000 uses up to three
radioactive sources; the TN Pb Analyzer uses a single radioactive source (cadmium-109). Both
models use a mercuric iodide semiconductor detector for the analysis of metals in soil. In x-ray
fluorescence spectroscopy, energy components of the excited x-ray spectrum are analyzed directly
as an energy proportional response. Energy dispersion allows an efficient, full-spectrum
measurement which enables the use of low intensity excitation sources and compact, battery-powered,
field-portable electronics.
Download (797KB/119pp/PDF)
X-Ray Fluorescence Rapid Sediment Characterization Tool
This report is part of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In
1999, portable XRF instruments were used at the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, located in
San Diego, California to field screen wet, heterogeneous sediment. Samples are exposed to x-ray
energy, which liberates electrons in the inner shell of metal atoms. As the outer electrons move
towards the inner shells to fill vacancies, energy is released or fluoresced. The fluorescing
energy spectrum identifies the metals and the intensity is proportional to the concentration in
the sample.
Download (71KB/2pp/PDF)
X-Ray, K-Edge Detection System for Piping and Ducts
The X-Ray, K-Edge Heavy Metal Detection System uses a C-frame inspection head with an X-ray tube
mounted on one side of the frame and an imaging unit and high purity germanium detector mounted on
the other side. A broad spectrum of X-rays is directed from the X-ray tube through containerized
holdup material to the imaging unit's phosphor screen. System operators use results to calculate
the total amount of contaminants in each section of a container. At the Savannah River Site's
321-M fuel fabrication facility, the system was used to determine the type and amount of heavy
metal contaminants, such as uranium, in facility ventilation ducts and pipes.
Download (479KB/41pp/PDF)
PCB/Pesticides Characterization
Binding Enzyme Immunoassay Test Kit for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil from two sites at Oak Ridge
National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The first site was located outdoors, with
naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was in a controlled environmental chamber
under a monitored setting. The EnviroGard PCB Test Kit is a competitively binding enzyme
immunoassay that performs testing for PCBs in soil and solutions at intervals between 1, 5, 10,
and 50 ppm. PCBs are extracted from a sample using methanol. PCB enzyme conjugate and the sample
are added to antibody-coated test tubes. After the test tubes are incubated and rinsed, a color
developing solution is added. The amount of PCB in the sample is indicated by a color change.
Download (451KB/107pp/PDF)
Electrochemical Analyzer for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997, to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts (wipe
samples) from two sites at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The
first site was located outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions, and the second site was in
a controlled environmental chamber under a monitored setting. The L2000 PCB/Chloride Analyzer is a
field-portable instrument that is designed to quantify PCB concentrations in soil, dielectric
fluids, and surface wipes. The sample is extracted using a nonchlorinated solvent and the
supernatant is decanted onto a Florisil column where the water and inorganic chloride is removed.
The solution is collected and metallic sodium is added in order to strip the covalently bound
chlorine atoms from the PCB molecule. An extraction solution is added to help adjust the pH,
destroy the excess sodium, and extract and isolate the newly formed chloride ions in an aqueous
buffered solution. Once the aqueous solution is decanted, filtered, and collected, a chloride
ion-specific electrode measures the millivolt potential of the chloride solution and the potential
is converted to a PCB concentration in parts per million.
Download (537KB/108pp/PDF)
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts (wipe
samples) from two sites at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The
first site was located outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was in
a controlled environmental chamber under a monitored setting. The PCB Soil Tube Assay is designed
for semi-quantitative field screening of PCBs in soil. The technology applies the principles of
enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to the detection of PCBs. In this assay, an enzyme is
been chemically linked to a PCB molecule or analog to create a PCB conjugate. The conjugate is
mixed with an extract containing the sample. This mixture is applied to a surface to which an
antibody for PCB has been affixed. The native PCB and PCB conjugate compete for a limited number
of antibody sites. The solution is washed away and the remaining PCB-antibody complexes or
enzyme-PCB-antibody complexes cause a color change reaction.
Download (444KB/104pp/PDF)
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay System for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts (wipe
samples) from two sites at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The
first site was located outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was in
a controlled environmental chamber under a monitored setting. The RaPID Assay System applies the
principles of enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to the detection of PCBs in soil. The
system combines the sample, an enzyme conjugate, and paramagnetic particles coated with
PCB-specific antibodies in a test tube. After incubation, a magnetic field is applied, which
allows unbound reagents to be decanted. Following decanting, the particles are washed and an
enzyme substrate and chromatogen are added. The mixture is incubated and acid is added. The amount
of PCB in the sample is indicated by a color change.
(739KB/118pp/PDF)
Fluoroimmunoassay for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The verification test was conducted in
August 2000 to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts from two sites at Oak
Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The first site was
located outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was
in a controlled environmental chamber under a monitored setting. The DELFIA PCB
assay is a solid-phase time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay based on the sequential
addition of sample extract and PCB tracer to a monoclonal antibody reagent specific
for PCBs. The antibody reagent and sample extract are added to a strip of plate
wells and allowed to react. The plates are washed to remove the sample matrix
from the antibody. A PCB tracer is then added, which binds to the antibodies that
are not attached to the sample PCBs. The excess tracer is washed off and a solution
is added, which forms fluorescent chelates with the bound ions. The concentration
of PCBs in the sample is measured by the amount of fluorescence.
Download (245KB/51pp/PDF)
Immunoassay Rapid Sediment Characterization Tool
This report is part of the Naval Facilities
Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In April 2000, a PCB sediment
screening study was conducted at Hunters Point Shipyard to support a baseline
risk assessment sample design. The screening was performed using enzyme linked
immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests, which use antibodies to bind with a target
compound. Concentrations of the compound and the target analyte are identified
through a colorimetric reaction. The determination of the compound's presence
is made by comparing the color developed by a sample of concentration with the
color formed by the standard containing the analyte at a known concentration.
The concentration of the compound is determined by the intensity of color in the
sample and is measured with a spectrophotometer.
Download (209KB/3pp/PDF)
Immunoassay Test Kit with Latex Particles for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts from two
sites at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The first site was located
outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was in a controlled
environmental chamber under a monitored setting. The D TECH PCB Test Kit is a semi-quantitative
technology based on the principles of immunoassay to detect trace amounts of PCBs in samples.
Antibodies are immobilized on latex particles that react with the sample solution. The analyte
PCBs and enzyme conjugate bind to the antibodies. The latex particles are washed and a color
developing solution is added. The amount of PCB in the sample is indicated by a color change.
Download (551KB/107pp/PDF)
Ion-Specific Electrode Analyzer for Drum Surfaces
This case study describes a field analytical method that was used to measure PCB surficial
contamination in empty drums cleaned by a new process involving CO2 scouring. The
Dexsil PCB analyzer was used to monitor residual PCB contamination in the processed drums. During
the Dexsil process, chlorides were extracted from wipe samples and measured with an ion-specific
electrode. The drum cleaning process was not effective; consequently, only limited information was
obtained about use of the Dexsil method.
Download (181KB/48pp/PDF)
Ion-Specific Electrode Analyzer for Soil, Groundwater, Transformer Oils, and Surface Wipes
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
verification test was conducted in August 2000 to measure PCBs in transformer
oil at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The L2000DX
Analyzer is an ion-specific electrode that is designed to quantify PCBs, chlorinated
solvents, and pesticides in soil, water, transformer oil, and surface wipe samples.
The instrument uses a rechargeable battery and may be operated either in a lab
or in the field. The sample is collected in a polyethylene reaction tube and metallic
sodium is added in order to strip the covalently bound chlorine atoms from the
PCB molecule. An extraction solution is added to help adjust the pH, destroy the
excess sodium, and extract and isolate the newly formed chloride ions in an aqueous
buffered solution. Once the aqueous solution is decanted, filtered, and collected,
a chloride ion-specific electrode measures the millivolt potential of the chloride
solution and the potential is converted to a PCB concentration in parts per million.
Download (1.1MB/46pp/PDF)
Semi-Quantitative, Analyte-Specific Immunoassay Kit for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The
demonstration was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil from two sites at Oak Ridge
National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The first site was located outdoors, with
naturally fluctuating conditions and the second site was in a controlled environmental chamber
under a monitored setting. The PCB Immunoassay Kit is a semi-quantitative screening
method that indicates whether the PCB concentration in soil is above or below
a specific threshold value. The technology uses analyte-specific antibodies attached
to the inside of plastic tubes to bind and remove PCBs selectively from samples.
In this immunoassay, the sample and a reagent containing enzyme conjugates are
added to antibody-coated tubes. Enzyme conjugates and PCBs bind to the antibodies
attached to the tube. The samples are incubated, the solution is washed away,
and color development reagents are added. The amount of PCB in the sample is indicated
by a color change.
Download (444KB/108pp/PDF)
Surface Acoustic Wave Detector for Soil and Solvent Extract
This report is part
of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The demonstration
was conducted in July 1997 to measure PCBs in soil and solvent extracts (wipe
samples) from two sites at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge,
Tennessee. The first site was located outdoors, with naturally fluctuating conditions
and the second site was in a controlled environmental chamber under a monitored
setting. The 4100 Vapor Detector is a handheld, portable chromatograph system
equipped with a nonspecific Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) detector, which is used
to quantify PCBs in soil and solvent extract samples. The SAW detector is a mass
detector, which can quantify chromatographic peaks, with peak widths measured
in milliseconds. The sample is injected into a GC capillary column, where speciation
is based upon retention time measurements using a temperature-programmed column.
Quantification is based on upon the frequency shift produced by the PCB congeners
as they exit the GC column.
Download (459KB/111pp/PDF)
Explosives Characterization
Aboveground Storage Tank Leak Detection and
Monitoring Newly Posted!
The Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center (NFESC) Port Hueneme and its industrial partners
have demonstrated and validated a mass-based leak detection system for aboveground storage tanks
(ASTs). The Low-Range Differential Pressure (LRDP) system is a computer-controlled system that
can reliably detect small leaks in a wide range of sizes of ASTs. The results of an evaluation
performed by the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) showed that the
LRDP has the performance to meet the monthly monitoring and annual precision (tightness) test
regulatory compliance requirements set for bulk USTs using a test that takes less than 24 hours to
conduct. In a previous test, the LRDP was tested in a 122.5 ft diameter bulk UST at the Point
Loma Fuel Terminal. In this demonstration, the LRDP was tested in a 54 ft diameter fixed-roof
tank with a floating oil pan at Fairchild AFB. This report describes that demonstration, as well
as a third-party evaluation conducted on a 164.5 ft diameter AST containing jet fuel (JP-8) at the
Fleet Industrial Service Center.
Download (1.2MB/43pp/PDF)
Analysis of Nitroaromatic, Nitramine, and Nitrate Ester Explosives in Water Using SPE and
GC-ECD Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from analysis of explosive compounds in water using soil-phase
extraction (SPE) and gas chromatography electron capture detector (GC ECD). The analyses
performed using GC ECD were compared with results obtained by using high performance liquid
chromatography (HPLC), and these results were found to be in good agreement for the analytes most
frequently detected. These included HMX, RDX, TNT, and TNB. The researchers found that the GC
method provided lower detection limits, but that accurate calibration was more difficult.
Download (880KB/36pp/PDF)
Analysis of Nitroaromatic and Nitramine Explosives in Soil and Groundwater Using
GC-NPD Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from analysis of explosive compounds that are transformation products
of TNT in soil and groundwater. The analyses were performed using gas chromatography and a
nitrogen-phosphorus detector (GC-NPD). This method was found to be particularly useful in
quantifying individual target analytes that often coexist in soils and groundwater contaminated
with explosive residues, such as at military antitank firing ranges.
Download (100KB/21pp/PDF)
Assessment of Sampling Error Associated with Collection and Analysis of Soil Samples at
Explosives-Contaminated Sites Newly Posted
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from an evaluation of short-distance heterogeneity in concentrations
of explosive compounds within surface soils. Discrete and composite samples were analyzed by both
on-site colorimetric and standard laboratory protocols. Three locations were sampled at three
installations (Monite, Hawthorne AAP, and Volunteer AAP) and the results were used to estimate the
relative contributions of analytical error and sampling error to total uncertainty. The results
from the study showed that characterization of explosives-contaminated sites using composite
sampling, in-field sample homogenization, and on-site analysis is an efficient method of producing
data that are accurate and precise, and representative of the area being sampled.
Download (552KB/45pp/PDF)
Characterization of Explosives-Contaminated DoD Building Foundations and Underlying
Soils Newly Posted!
This report describes a demonstration performed by the Environmental Security Technology
Certification Program (ESTCP) of methods used for characterizing the foundations, adjacent areas,
and underlying areas of explosive-contaminated buildings, without removing the buildings and
foundations. The demonstration was used to show that the methods could be applied to many of the
buildings at Badger Army Ammunition Plant (AAP) and similar sites. Field methods used in the
demonstration included Raman spectroscopy, Expray colorimetric indicator, and CRREL RDX
colorimetric field screening. These methods were evaluated at five buildings in the Rocket Paste
area at Badger AAP for nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine in soil samples and concrete slabs.
Download (3MB/49pp/PDF)
Detecting Metallic Primary Explosives with a Portable X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)
Spectrometer Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from laboratory experiments using the MAP-3 XRF spectrum analyzer.
This XRF unit, equipped with a Co-57 source, was used to analyze for lead and mercury in soil,
which are commonly associated with explosives such as lead azide, lead styphnate, and mercury
fulminate. The study found that high concentrations of lead and mercury could be detected in an
active sample area of cylindrical shape, approximately 1 cm in diameter and 1.5 cm in depth.
Download (92KB/14pp/PDF)
Electromagnetic Induction and Magnetic Sensor Fusion for Enhanced UXO Target
Classification Newly Posted!
This report describes two demonstrations performed by the Environmental Security Technology
Certification Program (ESTCP) of the Multi-Sensor Towed Array Detection System (MTADS). At a
demonstration at the L Range of the Army Research Laboratory's Blossom Point facility, a
towed-array magnetometer (one pass) and EM pulsed-induction data (two-pass) were used over a 3
acre site during a 12 hour survey. Results were compared with those from a baseline MTADS
magnetometer analysis. In a second demonstration, conducted at the Impact Area of the Badlands
Bombing Range that had been seeded with 25 inert projectiles, data from magnetometer, EM61 Mk I,
and EM61 MkII were collected. The researchers concluded that while these methods are more costly
on a per acre basis, they are more cost-effective on a detected target basis.
Download (1.2MB/71pp/PDF)
Evaluation of Commercial Enzyme Immunoassays for the Field Screening of TNT and RDX in
Water Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from an evaluation of immunoassay test kits for analysis of TNT and
RDX in water samples. The kits tested were the EnviroGard, Quantix, RaPID, and DTECH. Water
samples were collected from 44 monitoring wells at three military installations (NSWC Crane,
Umatilla, and USSB Bangor) and analyzed using the test kits. The accuracy and precision of the
test kits were compared with results obtained from use of the RP-HPLC, EPA Method 8330. Results
showed that most of the kits achieved a ±50% relative percent difference criterion over 85% of
the time. The researchers concluded that careful consideration must be given to interferences
that may be present and unique for each application.
Download (166KB/22pp/PDF)
GC and Ion Mobility Spectrometry for Soil and Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. The performance
assessment was conducted between August and September 1999, at Oak Ridge National
Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee using soil and water samples containing
2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX).
The GC-IONSCAN is an onsite analytical instrument that combines the rapid analysis
time of ion mobility spectrometry with the capabilities of gas chromatography
to detect explosives. The instrument may be operated in one of two modes and provides
either a quick screening analysis of samples with identification of the major
constituents or full characterization and quantitative analysis of the sample.
Download (245KB/59pp/PDF)
GC and Thermionic Ionization Detection for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Report series. A verification test was conducted
in August 2000, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
using soil samples containing 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene
(TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX). The Model 8610C is an
onsite analytical instrument that can provide onsite analysis of soils for explosives
by coupling a gas chromatograph with a thermionic ionization detector. Samples
are prepared and injected onto the GC column. The sample is vaporized and is carried
through the column by a nitrogen carrier gas. The components within the sample
are separated based on relative affinities and vapor pressure. Upon elution at
the end of the column, compounds containing nitrogen groups are ionized on the
surface of the thermionic bead, and the increased conductivity within the detector
is measured with a collector electrode.
Download (288KB/46pp/PDF)
Immunoassay for Groundwater
This report is part of EPA's Environmental Technology
Verification Report series. The demonstration was conducted between August and
September 1999, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
using water samples containing 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine
(RDX). The FAST 2000 is an onsite analytical instrument that is based on a displacement
assay that uses antibodies and fluorescence as a means of detecting explosives.
During analysis, analyte-specific antibodies are saturated with a fluorescent-labeled
signal molecule, creating an antibody/signal molecule complex. RDX and TNT antibodies
are immobilized on membranes and saturated with the fluorescent tag. The membrane
is placed in the FAST 2000 and samples are inserted into the biosensor. If the
target analyte is detected in the sample, a proportional amount of the signal
molecule is displaced from the antibody and detected on the fluorimeter downstream.
Download (352Kb/48pp/PDF)
Immunosensors for Groundwater and Soil
This Environmental Security Technology Certificate
Program (ESTCP) report describes the field trials (three for groundwater and one
for soil) that were conducted at several geochemically diverse sites including
three sites on the U.S. EPA Superfund list - SUBASE Bangor (Washington), Umatilla
Army Depot, and NSWC Crane (Indiana). The Naval Research Laboratory has developed
two biosensors for measuring TNT and RDX, based on fluorescence immunoassay techniques.
The Analyte 2000 is a fiber optic biosensor capable of simultaneously monitoring
four optical probes; the FAST 2000 is a continuous flow immunosensor.
Download (813KB/74pp/PDF)
Low Concentration Method for the Determination of Perchlorate in Aqueous Samples Using Ion
Selective Electrodes
This report describes use of a Sentek 367-75 Solid State Perchlorate Combination ion selective
electrode (ISE) with an Orion Model 290A Advanced Portable ISE/pH/mV/Temperature Meter to measure
low concentrations of perchlorate in water. The studies resulted in a method with a reporting
limit set at 15 µg/L, supported by a low calibration point of 10 µg/L, and a method detection
limit of 3 µg/L. The coefficients of determination for the studies were consistently higher than
0.99 and the method accuracy criterion of 20% was met throughout the linear range of 10 to 100
µg/L. Significant interferences were encountered for elevated concentrations of some anions;
these were addressed in various ways depending on the anion. Split sample analyses were performed
for 60 samples to determine whether analytical results for perchlorate by ion chromatography could
be reproduced by ISE. The results showed non-detected ISE results confirmed in 54 of 55 samples,
and detected results confirmed in five samples.
Download (2.6MB/172pp/PDF)
Magnetometer Towed Array for Buried Waste
The Magnetometer Towed Array, also called
the Surface Towed Ordnance Locator System (STOLSTM) is a passive, non-intrusive,
site assessment method used to infer subsurface conditions at sites where buried
wastes are contained or encapsulated in ferromagnetic materials. The system, originally
built by the U.S. Navy to identify buried ordnance, has been demonstrated at Sandia
National Laboratory and Kirtland Air Force Base.
Download (438KB/25pp/PDF)
On-Site Analysis for High Concentrations of Explosives in
Soil Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from an evaluation of the rate of extraction of TNT and RDX from
highly contaminated soil using acetone and methanol. This study was performed because of concerns
that protocols that specify short extraction times (one to three minutes) may lead to analytical
results that are biased low if extraction kinetics are slow. The study identified recommendations
for a field method making appropriate dilutions to analyze high concentrations of explosives in
soil.
Download (340KB/20pp/PDF)
On-Site Processing and Subsampling of Surface Soil Samples for Analysis of
Explosives Newly Posted!
To improve the representativeness of on-site analysis for explosives residues in surface soils, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory evaluated a simple on-site processing (grinding and mixing) and subsampling protocol. Surface samples from three firing ranges (Camp Ethan Allen, Fort Bliss, and Fort Greely) were collected. The protocol used bulk samples which were air-dried, sieved, ground with a portable hand-operated mill, mixed, and then subsampled using layered bedding technique. This approach reduces laboratory-subsampling variance for both sparsely vegetated and vegetated surface soils. Moreover, during a subsequent dynamic sampling and analysis effort, this protocol was successful in ranking explosives residue concentrations associated with a specific military training activity.
Download (123KB/26pp/PDF)
Overview of On-Site Analytical Methods for Explosives in Soil Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from an evaluation of on-site methods for analysis of explosives in
soil, primarily for TNT and RDX. Methods that have undergone significant validation typically are
either colorimetric-based methods or enzyme immunoassay methods. The report discusses
considerations such as specificity, detection limits, extraction, cost, and ease of use. A
discussion of sampling design considerations and an overview of the most commonly used laboratory
methods for analyzing explosives in soil also are provided.
Download (155KB/37pp/PDF)
Sampling Error Associated with Collection and Analysis of Soil Samples at a Firing Range
Contaminated with HMX Newly Posted!
Short-range and mid-rage (grid size) spatial heterogeneity in explosives concentrations within
surface soils were studies at an active antitank firing range at the Canadian Force
Base-Valcartier, Val-Belair, Quebec, Canada. This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory, provides results from intensive
sampling conducted over short distances using a 6-meter square grid pattern including two target
tanks, with 16 grids total. Samples were analyzed on sites for HMX and TNT, including use of a
colorimetric method.
Download (820KB/60pp/PDF)
Study of Five Discrete Interval-Type Groundwater Sampling
Devices Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from an evaluation of five relatively newly developed groundwater
sampling devices. The devices are the Kabis, HydraSleeve, Discrete Interval, Pneumo-Bailer, and
USGS Passive Diffusion Bag (PDB). The devices were tested to determine their ability to recover
representative concentrations of a variety of analytes, including volatile organics, explosives,
pesticides, and metals. The first phase of the study included several standpipe experiments with
known concentrations of analytes. In the second phase, the devices were used in the field to
sample TCE from a deep well and were compared with samples collected using low-flow sampling.
Results were discussed in terms of ease of use, accuracy, specificity, and cost.
Download (1.9MB/57pp/PDF)
Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The verification test was conducted in
August 2000, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
using soil samples containing TNT. The Spreeta Sensor is a biosensor for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene
(TNT). The instrument is a miniaturized sensor platform that uses surface plasmon
resonance to detect changes on a gold sensing surface. Analyte specificity is
provided by a thin biofilm on the sensor surface. Since TNT is most effective
detected by methods other than direct binding, an inhibition assay is attached
to the gold sensing surface of the Spreeta sensor. The assay is exposed to an
anti-TNT antibody solution and surface binding of TNT is monitored. The actual
binding for a sample is compared to a reference run to determine the presence
or absence of TNT.
Download (347KB/40pp/PDF)
Use of Thin-Layer Chromatography for On-Site Analysis of Explosives in
Soil Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Cold Regions Research & Engineering
Laboratory, provides results from testing performed using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) for
analysis of explosives in soil. Compounds analyzed include TNT, RDX, HMX, and NG. The study
found that TLC methods could be used to separate various components of explosives from soil
samples.
Download (99KB/20pp/PDF)
Radionuclide Characterization
Alpha Emitter Counter for Surface Water, Groundwater and Process Water
This report
describes the Thermo Alpha Monitor (TAM) technology, developed by Thermo Power
Corporation. The TAM technology counts alpha emitters, such as uranium 238 and
234 and plutonium 239, in water. The TAM technology was demonstrated at several
locations at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, using a range of water chemistries,
contaminant concentrations, and radioisotopes. Tests were conducted using surface
water, groundwater, and process water, and measured uranium concentrations from
<10 to 100 ug/L.
Download (526KB/23pp/PDF)
Global Positioning Radiometric Scanner System for Surface Soils
This report is
part of DOE's Innovative Technology Summary Report series. In September 1999,
the GPRS system was demonstrated in the field at the Idaho National Engineering
and Environmental Laboratory Initial Engine Test Facility on the IET stack trench.
The GPRS system uses a detection system, a portable computer, a differential global
positioning system, and a four-wheel drive vehicle. Once the survey data has been
collected, a software program called GeoSoftÔ generates a geographical representation
of the radiological contamination extent. The GPRS consists of a portable sodium-iodide
detector to perform real time, in situ analyses to conduct routine large area
surface radiation surveys. In September 1999, the GPRS system was demonstrated
in the field at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory Initial
Engine Test Facility on the IET stack trench.
Download (877KB/35pp/PDF)
Large Area Plastic Scintillation Detector and GPS System for Soil
A large area
plastic scintillation (LAPS) detector was used in conjunction with a global positioning
system (GPS) to collect and log information about concentrations of radionuclides
in soil at the Kirtland Air Force Base/Sandia National Laboratory in New Mexico.
The three sites used in this demonstration were ER Site 55, OT-8, and OT-91. Each
site was contaminated with a single radionuclide, either depleted uranium (DU)
or thorium (Th)-232. Study findings showed that the predicted soil concentrations
were accurate to within a factor of two of the known values.
Download (203KB/33pp/PDF)
Liquid Scintillation Counter for Radionuclide Swipes
This report is part of DOE's
Innovative Technology Summary Report series and presents information from demonstrations
conducted in three phases in 1999 at the Miamisburg Environmental Project site.
The cost and performance of the portable Lumi-Scint liquid scintillation radiation
counter (LSC) and the standard laboratory-based LSC (baseline technology) are
presented. The demonstration also determined if the portable LSC could be used
as a supplement to the standard LSC and provide a rapid quantitative tool for
analyzing swipes of low-energy beta-emitting radionuclides. The demonstration
showed the portable unit cannot replace the baseline technology, however, it is
useful for providing fast analysis in the field on a small number of samples.
Download (1.1MB/28pp/PDF)
Long-Term, Post-Closure Radiation Monitor for Soil and Groundwater
DOE conducted a
one-year field trial from 1998 to 1999, at the Fernald Environmental Management
Project, located in Fernald, Ohio to demonstrate the Long-term, Post-closure Radiation
Monitoring System (LPRMS). The LPRMS is based on gamma detection and monitors
radionuclides to depths of 50 meters below ground surface. A nanoprobe, consisting
of a coupled thallium-doped, sodium iodide scintillator/photomultiplier tube and
a multichannel analyzer. The nanoprobe is lowered into a PVC casing in the ground.
Measurements are taken at the surface using a solar-powered station and a cell
phone modem for communication to an offsite computer.
Download (100KB/2pp/PDF)
Membrane Rapid Sampling Technology for Groundwater
The Empore™ membrane technology
is a commercial separation technology developed and patented by 3M. It consists
of a method for enmeshing sorbent, surface-active particles in a web-like matrix,
which is formed into a membrane. The particles are a product of molecular recognition
technology, and allow selective adsorption of heavy metals or radionuclides that
are present as ions in aqueous solutions. The technology has been used for sampling
and analysis of water samples and for treatment of radioactively-contaminated
water. This report describes the use of Empore™ technology at four sites,
including use at the Savannah River site for sampling and analysis of groundwater
for technetium, strontium, cesium, and lead contamination.
Download (255KB/29pp/PDF)
Multisensor Dig Face Characterization for Radioactive Waste
The Dig Face Characterization
system (now known as Remedial Action Management System, or RAMS) consists of multiple
real-time sensors (geophysical, chemical, radiological, and physical) situated
at the dig face. These sensors provide characterization information during excavation.
A demonstration of RAMS was performed at the Mound Environmental Management Project
in Miamisburg, Ohio. During this demonstration, a track-mounted, trolley platform,
dig face system was used to monitor a 20-foot by 5-foot excavation of a radiologically-contaminated
site known as Area 7.
Download (3.1MB/34pp/PDF)
Photodetector Fiber-Optic Sensor for Soil
The BetaScint™ sensor uses photodetectors
to determine beta particle radioactivity in a soil sample, and provides a measure
of strontium (Sr)-90 and uranium (U)-238 contamination. Beta particles (electrons)
emitted by radioactive contaminants excite electrons in plastic fiber doped with
fluorescent compounds in the layers of the sensor. The plastic fibers give off
light when the fluorescent molecules lose energy and return to their ground state.
The sensor was used at the DOE Oakland Operations Office Laboratory for Energy-related
Health Research (LEHR) in Davis, California, in screening and confirmation studies
for Sr-90. The sensor also was used to expedite site remediation.
Download (307KB/25pp/PDF)
Pipeline Slurry Monitors for Sludge
Slurry monitoring instruments measure slurry
properties during pipeline transfers to stay within control limits and to prevent
blockage. Two in-line slurry monitors were demonstrated to provide real-time data
on slurry materials in pipelines, such as density, particle population, and particle
dimensions. The two monitors were the Endress-Hauser Promass 63M Coriolis Meter
and the Lasentec M600P Analyzer. The two monitors were demonstrated using an Oak
Ridge Reservation (ORR) slurry monitoring test loop (SMTL) installed at the Gunite
and Associated Tank (GATT) slurry transport system.
Download (565KB/26pp/PDF)
Position-Sensitive Radiation Monitor for Flat Open Areas or Smooth Surfaces
This report is
part of DOE's Innovative Technology Summary Report series. The report includes
the results of a demonstration of the technology at the DOE Hanford facility in
1997. The Position-Sensitive Radiation Monitor can be used to document radiological
surveys of large, open, flat areas and smooth surfaces, both before and after
decontamination of facilities. The system detects alpha and bete/gamma contamination,
uses an automatic data logger, and can be configured with large detectors on mobile
platforms for surveying outdoors or large wall, ceiling, and floor surfaces.
Download (1.3MB/43pp/PDF)
Spectral Gamma Probe for Soil and Groundwater
The Spectral Gamma Probe consists
of a gamma radiation detection probe that is driven into the subsurface using
a cone penetrometer. A sodium iodide scintillation crystal detects gamma radiation
at the probe tip. Gamma rays emitted by radioactive wastes are collected and the
spectrum is analyzed to identify radioactive constituents and their relative concentrations.
The Spectral Gamma Probe was evaluated at the R-Reactor Seepage Basins at the
Savannah River site for its ability to measure cesium-137 in the presence of other
subsurface radioactive contaminants.
Download (321KB/23pp/PDF)
Spectrometer Monitor for Transuranics in Glass
This report is part of DOE's Innovative
Technology Summary Report series. This report presents the results from three
demonstrations conducted during August 1997, July 1998, and October 1999, at the
Savannah River Site, located in Aiken, South Carolina. The Real-Time Monitor for
Transuranics in Glass is a monitor that can be used to determine the concentration
of certain metals in a glass stream as it flows out of a melter. The monitor is
based on the detection of the spectrum of light emitted by a high-temperature
object. Light emitted by the hot glass stream is focused into an optical fiber,
which is coupled into a spectrometer with an array detector. Target analytes included
ytterbium, a plutonium surrogate; erbium, a surrogate for americium and curium;
and neodymium, an americium surrogate.
Download (278KB/30pp/PDF)
Thallium Activated Sodium Iodide Detector for Paint and Soil
This report is part
of DOE's Innovative Technology Summary Report series. This report presents the
results and lessons learned from field demonstrations conducted in March and April
2000, which investigated the feasibility of using the SAMs technology to make
in situ isotopic radiation measurements in paint chips and soil samples at the
Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory Large Scale Demonstration
and Deployment Project, located in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The SAM Model 935 is a
handheld detector that uses a thallium activated sodium iodide detector to provide
isotopic analysis in the field.
Download (663KB/31pp/PDF)
Unexploded Ordnance Characterization
Electromagnetic Induction and Magnetic Sensor Fusion
The Naval Research Laboratory has
been developing the Multi-sensor Towed Array Detection System (MTADS) to identify
unexploded ordnance. MTADS has been demonstrated at a number of sites; this Environmental
Security Technology Certificate Program (ESTCP) report describes the demonstration
at the Army Research Laboratory's Blossom Point facility in Maryland. The system
consists of a low-magnetic-signature vehicle to tow linear arrays of magnetometer
and pulsed-induced sensors to survey large areas. The demonstration included data
collection, data analysis, and target marking and remediation. MTADS can detect
and locate ordnance with accuracies on the order of 15cm. However, MTADS has selected
a significant number of non-ordnance targets and more effective discrimination
algorithms are required.
Download (766KB/40pp/PDF)
Multi-Sensor Towed Array Detection System
The MTADS system hardware consists of a low
magnetic signature vehicle that is used to tow linear arrays of magnetic and electromagnetic
(EM) sensors to conduct surveys of large areas and to detect buried unexploded
ordnance (UXO). The MTADS magnetic sensors are cesium vapor, full-field magnetometers,
which can be used in several configurations. Four demonstrations of the MTADS
system were conducted, including demonstrations at the Naval Research Laboratory
(NRL)/Chesapeake Bay Detachment (CBD) Magnetic Test Range, and at the Marine Corps
Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) in Twentynine Palms, CA.
Download (2.9MB/63pp/PDF)
Remote Minefield Detection System
This report describes the REMIDS developed to
detect unexploded ordnance (UXO), and reviews the performance of REMIDS in tests
at the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona and at Ft. Rucker in Alabama. REMIDS enhances
the discrimination of surface UXO by using reflectance, polarization, temperature,
and footprint (shape) to distinguish UXO from natural objects in the UXO's surroundings.
The REMIDS hardware consists of an airborne line scanner with sensors that measure
reflectance, polarization, and thermal response in 710 round "spots". The performance
of this system was tested at a 2,400 m2 site at Ft. Rucker and a 0.5 km2 site
at Yuma. System performance was found to be site-dependent.
Download (399KB/29pp/PDF)
Triad-Related Strategies/Techniques
Field-Based Strategies/Direct Push/Cone Penetrometer
Adaptive Sampling and Analysis Programs for Soil and Groundwater at Multiple Sites
This report is part of the DOE Innovative Technology Summary Report series. Between
1992 and 1999, ASAPs have been used to delineate and quantify subsurface hazardous
and mixed waste, naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) contamination,
identify buried waste pits, and provide remediation support for precise excavations
at multiple sites including: Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico;
Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois; Brookhaven National Laboratory,
Upton, New York; FUSRAP sites in Painesville and Luckey, Ohio; USACE Ashland 2
FUSRAP Site, Tonawanda, New York; DOD sites at Kirkland Air Force Base, Albuquerque,
New Mexico and Joliet, Illinois; Private NORM contaminated site in Mt. Pleasant,
Michigan. ASAPs provide an alternative to traditional sampling programs by using
field analytical data to generate sample results quickly enough to have an impact
on the course of future sampling activities (sampling numbers, locations, analysis,
etc.) ASAPs use a dual approach to sample strategy by combining GIS with Plume™,
an interactive software package that provides quantitative support for adaptive
sampling and analysis programs. The ASAP approach may be used for the characterization
and extent of contamination in groundwater, surface soil, and subsurface soil.
Download (507KB/29pp/PDF)
Adaptive Sampling and Analysis Programs for Soil at Hanscom Air Force Base
A dynamic
site investigation was performed at Hanscom Air Force Base (HAFB), Operable Unit
1, using an Adaptive Sampling and Analysis Program. Sampling and analytical technologies
used at HAFB included the following:
- Geoprobe
- Bruker Thermal Desorption (TD) GC/MS. An average of 75 soil samples per day were screened for VOCs with this technology; in a two-week period, a total of 601 samples were analyzed.
- Tekmar Purge and Trap with GC/MS. Quantitative VOC analysis of 158 soil samples was made using this technology to confirm the screening results and delineate the extent of contamination.
- A Tufts University-designed thermal desorber inlet and GC/MS; used to analyze samples for PCBs and PAHs.
- Ion Fingerprint Detection (IFD) software
- An on-site ICP/OES; used to analyze samples for metals.
Cone Penetrometer for Soil and Groundwater
Cone penetrometer technology (CPT) provides real-time data on physical, electrical, and chemical properties for use in characterization of the subsurface. CPT has many uses, including use with sensors and use for installation of piezometers. The cone penetrometer consists of a steel cone that is hydraulically pushed into the ground while in situ measurements are continuously collected and transported to the surface for data interpretation and visualization. The technology has been demonstrated at several sites and has been shown to be a cost-effective tool for site characterization at sites described as "difficult to drill".
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Cone Penetrometer Internal Reflection Sensor for NAPL
This report presents
results and information from the 1998 field demonstration by DOE at the Savannah
River Site in Aiken, South Carolina and at Sage Dry Cleaners in Jacksonville,
Florida. Both sites contained PCE and TCE. The Internal Reflection Sensor is a
technology, which is deployed in a cone penetrometer (CPT) for real-time, in situ
detection of DNAPL or LNAPL in both the vadose and saturated zones. The technology
contains an internal reflection element that is positioned in the wall of the
CPT so that the sensing face is in contact with the soil or groundwater as the
cone is advanced. When NAPL is present, laser light is not reflected within the
element and the internally reflected light is diminished. The detector is instantaneously
measured at the surface.
Download (77KB/2pp/PDF)
Continuous Multichannel Tubing System for Groundwater
This report is part of the Naval
Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In January 2000,
a field demonstration of the Continuous Multichannel Tubing (CMT) System was conducted
at Hunter's Point Shipyard, located in California. Groundwater is contaminated
with VOCs and SVOCs. The CMT system consists of multi-chamber polyethylene tubing,
which is inserted into a boring or temporary casing and allows access to different
depths with one device. For each desired sampling depth, three holes are drilled
into one of the chambers to serve as an entry port. A plug is inserted to prevent
accumulation of stagnant water in the chamber below each port. A sand pack is
attached at each sampling port to serve as a filter to remove particulates. Bentonite
packers are positioned between the ports in order to isolate aquifers.
Download (249KB/2pp/PDF)
Core Barrel Sampler for Subsurface Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The field test was conducted in May and
June 1997, at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in Albert
City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The VOCs detected
in soil samples collected from the site include cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and
PCE. The SimulProbe Core Barrel Sampler is designed to collect subsurface soil
samples and may be advanced using direct push or drilling platforms. The sampler
is constructed of steel and consists of a split core barrel, a drive shoe at the
bottom of the unit, and a core barrel head at the top of the unit. The drive shoe
component is equipped with a slide mechanism and has an optional drive tip for
direct push, discrete sampling locations.
Download (1MB/109pp/PDF)
Cryogenic Drilling for Sand and Gravel
This report is part of DOE's Innovative Technology
Summary Report series and presents cost information and lessons learned from four
demonstrations conducted at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and one
conducted at the Aerojet Site in Rancho Cordova, California between 1994 and 1996.
Cryogenic drilling uses cold nitrogen (either liquid or gas) as the circulating
medium during drilling operations. The cold nitrogen freezes moisture in the ground
surrounding the hole. This eliminates the need for a casing to stabilize the borehole,
allows the drilling of smaller diameter boreholes, and minimizes the amount of
investigation-derived wastes. Cryogenic drilling is most appropriate for sites
that contain unconsolidated sands and gravel that are difficult to drill by other
methods.
Download (558KB/24pp/PDF)
Dual Tube Liner Sampler for Subsurface Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The field test was conducted in May and
June 1997 at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in Albert
City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The Dual Tube
Liner Sampler was designed to collect subsurface soil samples by using direct-push
platform technology. Two steel tube extensions of different diameters (an inner
and outer tube) and a metal drive head adapter are advanced into the soil. The
outer extension serves as a casing and the lower end of the inner extension tube
is fitted with a plastic liner during sample collection to assist in obtaining
discrete samples. The VOCs detected in soil samples collected from the site include
cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and PCE.
Download (842KB/110pp/PDF)
Dynamic Decision-making for Soil and Groundwater Characterization at the Naval Air Weapons
Station (NAWS) China Lake, CA Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by EPA's Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation,
describes a base wide investigation at the NAWS China Lake, CA, that was used to identify specific
sites that posed the greatest risk and the sites that should be considered for no further action
status. The investigation used a conceptual site model as a dynamic decision-making tool, and
included a soil-sampling program that produced samples for XRF analysis and X-ray diffraction
analysis. A groundwater and surface water sampling program produced samples for isotope
geochemistry analyses, including oxygen-18, deuterium, and carbon-14 analysis. These isotope
signatures were used to evaluate the amount of mixing between hydrogeologic zones at the site.
Download (3.1MB/26pp/PDF)
Dynamic Work Plan for Remediation of Soil
The Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and
Extension Center site contained soils contaminated with organochlorine pesticides,
organophosphorus pesticides, and other pesticides. The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
used a dynamic work plan guided by field analyses to integrate the site characterization
and cleanup portions of the project. Characterization, cleanup, and closure was
accomplished within a single 4-month field mobilization, and the entire project
cost ($589K) was about half the estimated cost ($1.2 million) of a more traditional
site characterization and remediation scenario for the site.
Download (513KB/46pp/PDF)
Dynamic Working Strategy for DNAPL Investigation at the McCormick and Baxter Superfund Site,
Stockton, CA Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by EPA's Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation,
describes a field investigation at the McCormick and Baxter Superfund Site, Stockton, CA, that was
used to characterization DNAPLs at the site. Types of information collected include the vertical
and horizontal distribution of NAPL, physical and chemical characteristics of the NAPL, type,
thickness, and heterogeneity of the subsurface geologic material, and the presence of man-made
subsurface physical barriers. Sampling techniques included the use of a SCAPS (direct push
technology), mounted with LIF and CPT sensors, and was based on use of the Triad approach.
Download (6.6MB/104pp/PDF)
Expedited Site Characterization for Groundwater
The principal elements of expedited
site characterization (ESC) are a field investigation conducted by an integrated
team working in the field; analysis, integration, and initial validation of characterization
data as they are obtained in the field; and a dynamic work plan that enables the
team to take advantage of new insights from recent data to adjust the work plan
in the field. This report covers demonstrations of the ESC methodology at several
DOE complexes, DoD facilities, BLM and USDA facilities, and commercial facilities
in the U.S. and Poland. The ESC methodology has been used to delineate contaminant
plumes, verify hydrogeological site models, and delineate hydrologic systems at
landfills, petroleum release sites, radioactive sites, manufactured gas plant
(MGP) sites, and grain storage facilities.
Download (254KB/21pp/PDF)
Large Bore Soil Sampler for Discrete Samples
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The field test was conducted in May and
June 1997, at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in Albert
City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The VOCs detected
in soil samples collected from the site include cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and
PCE. The large bore soil sampler is a single tube-type, solid-barrel, closed-piston
device advanced by using direct-push techniques to collect discrete interval samples
of unconsolidated soils at depth. The sampler may be used with a liner to facilitate
retrieval of the sample.
Download (689KB/113pp/PDF)
Laser Fluorescence Probe for Soil and Groundwater
In 1994, EPA's Office of Research
and Development conducted a field demonstration of a fiber optic laser induced
fluorescence (LIF) excitation emission matrix (EEM) instrument which can be mounted
on a cone penetrometer. The technology was demonstrated on soil and groundwater
at Hill AFB in Utah, Hanscom AFB in Massachusetts, and the U.S. Coast Guard Station
in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. The instrument uses a Nd:YAG laser and Raman
shifter as an excitation source. The excitation source produces different wavelengths
that are launched through fiber optics to the sample. Contaminant fluorescence
is measured on a spectrograph.
Download (4.1MB/185pp/PDF)
Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Cone Penetrometer System for Soil
This report
describes the use of an integrated Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
and Cone Penetrometer Technology (CPT) system to analyze the heavy metals content
of soil in situ. The system uses a high-energy laser, and was demonstrated at
Sandia National Laboratory's Chemical Waste Landfill in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
During this demonstration, the system provided a measurement of the concentration
of chromium as a function of depth.
Download (851KB/25pp/PDF)
Laser Induced Fluorescence Sensor for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. Two field demonstrations were conducted
in May and November 1995, at the Hydrocarbon National Test Site located at Naval
Construction Battalion Center, Port Hueneme, California and at the Steam Plant
Tank Farm at Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Characterization
and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS) Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) system
uses a pulsed laser in combination with an optical detector to measure fluorescence
using optical fibers. The measurement is made through a window on a probe, which
is pushed into the ground with a truck mounted cone penetrometer. The LIF method
measures the in situ distribution of petroleum hydrocarbons based on the fluorescence
response.
Download (1.2MB/96pp/PDF)
Modified Direct Push Well Installation for Groundwater
This report is part of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series. In 1998, the Broad Agency Announcement program and the Navy Environmental Leadership Program performed a field demonstration for the installation of modified direct push wells at two sites at Naval Station Mayport. The sites contained groundwater, which was contaminated with PCE and pesticides. Direct push wells consist of a double screen system, protected by a steel drive tube with a sealed tip, that is driven to within 5 feet of the desired screen interval. The outer screen is pushed into the aquifer and the lower screen is lowered into the outer screen. A bentonite slurry is used to seal the well and a packer prevents the slurry from reaching the screened interval. This method minimizes the downward migration of contaminants that may occur with traditional drilling methods.
Download (71Kb/2pp/PDF)
Position Specific Sampling Technique for Soil
This DOE Technology Development Data
Sheet presents results from three field demonstrations of the UTD Inc. Position
Location (POLO) sensor device. Two demonstrations were completed in 1994 - one
in normally consolidated sandy clay at a private site in Virginia and the second
in a large man-made mound of non-compacted sand to cobble size particles at DOE's
Savannah River Site. The third field test was conducted in 1998 using a modified
POLO system to produce surveys of drill strings. POLO fits within a cone penetrometer
rod and is used to identify the position of characterization sensors in the subsurface.
POLO identifies the location of the rod tip and samples, as well as tracks the
rod path.
Download (10KB/2pp/PDF)
Raman Spectroscopy Probe for High-Level Waste in Soil or Groundwater
The Raman
probe, deployed in high-level waste tanks with a cone penetrometer, uses Raman
spectroscopy (an optical method) to detect organic and inorganic chemicals in
the media surrounding the probe. Laser light is beamed through a sapphire window
and a sample, causing molecules to vibrate in a distinctive manner and creating
a vibrational "fingerprint". These fingerprints are compared to known vibrational
signals and are used to provide an analysis of the material surrounding the probe.
Tests were conducted on a hot cell in the 222-S Laboratory at the Hanford site
and on solvent-contaminated soils at the Savannah River site.
Download (292KB/25pp/PDF)
Rapid Optical Screening Tool for Soil
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. Two field demonstrations were conducted
in May and October 1995, at the Hydrocarbon National Test Site located at Naval
Construction Batallion Center, Port Hueneme, California and at the Steam Plant
Tank Farm at Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico in order to
test the technology as a field screening method for TPH. The Rapid Optical Screening
Tool (ROST) Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) system provides real time field screening
of the physical characteristics of soil and the chemical characteristics of aromatic
petroleum hydrocarbons. The ROST system is mounted on a standard cone penetrometer
truck and is capable of retrieving geological information as well as distinguishing
between aromatic hydrocarbon-contaminated areas and non-contaminated areas. The
ROST uses a wavelength tunable UV laser source coupled with an optical detector
to measure fluorescence via optical fibers. The LIF method measures the in situ
distribution of petroleum hydrocarbons based on the fluorescence response based
on the presence of the PAH component of petroleum hydrocarbons. PAHs can be detected
in the soil matrix in the vadose, capillary fringe, and saturated zones.
Download (990/86pp/PDF)
Risk Based, Goal Oriented Sampling at Multiple Sites
Smart Sampling™ is
a risk-based, goal-oriented process that provides a framework for evaluating and
improving alternative remediation designs and mapping risk levels and cost alternatives.
It provides graphical tools that focus negotiations among site owners, regulators,
and stakeholders to set remediation goals. This report discusses the use of Smart
SamplingTM at several sites from 1992 to 1999, including the Sandia National Laboratory
in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the Mound Environmental Management Project in
Miamisburg, Ohio.
Download (237KB/22pp/PDF)
Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System for Soil
This report
presents results from a technology demonstration where a site characterization
and analysis penetrometer system (SCAPS) laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) sensor
was evaluated as a field screening method for petroleums, oils, and lubricants
(POL) by comparing data from the downhole neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG)
SCAPS-LIF and data from a nitrogen-based SCAPS-LIF with data from conventional
sampling and analytical methods. The SCAPS-LIF technologies were tested at sites
including Port Hueneme, CA, in a diesel fuel marine (DFM)-impacted area; Sandia
National Laboratory, NM, at a fuel tank farm site impacted by diesel fuel no.
2; and at Naval Air Station North Island Fuel Farm, CA, impacted by JP-5 and DFM.
The two innovative screening methods (the LIF methods) were found to produce results
that were comparable to those produced by conventional sampling and analytical
methods. However, several field performance concerns were identified.
Download (749KB/47pp/PDF)
Subsoil Probe for Continuous or Discrete Samples
This report is part of EPA's Environmental
Technology Verification Report series. The field test was conducted in May and
June 1997, at two sites: the Small Business Administration (SBA) site in Albert
City, Iowa and the Chemical Sales Company site in Denver, Colorado. The VOCs detected
in soil samples collected from the site include cis-1,2-DCE, 1,1,1-TCA, TCE, and
PCE. The sampler is designed to collect either continuous or discrete core samples
by using manual or powered percussive techniques. The sampler consists of a sampling
tube, a body that guides the sampler as it is driven into the soil, and a foot-pedal-operated
jack that retrieves the sampler. The sample tube may be fitted with a disposable
sample liner and an interchangeable tip (depending upon the type of soil encountered).
Download (1MB/110pp/PDF)
Thermal Desorption for VOCs in Soil
This Environmental Security Technology Certificate
Program (ESTCP) report describes demonstrations at five separate DoD facilities
in which the Thermal Desorption Sampler (TDS) system was used to detect chlorinated
solvent and BTEX contamination at depths up to 60 feet BGS in a wide range of
soil types and soil moisture conditions and provides cost information. The TDS
performs rapid, in situ field screening of VOC contamination in unsaturated soil.
The device is applied using cone penetrometer technology. The demonstration was
conducted under the Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS)
Program is a DoD effort to develop sensor and hybrid sensor/sampler technologies
to utilize the capabilities of cone penetrometer technology for characterizing
contamination at military installations. A known volume of soil is captured in
a sample chamber and the VOC contaminants are purged with helium carrier gas while
heating the chamber.
Download (1.9MB/48pp/PDF)
Wireline Cone Penetrometer for Soil
This report is part of DOE's Innovative Technology
Summary Report series and presents the results of a November 2000, DOE demonstration
of the Wireline CPT system at Savannah River Site's M-Basin and at the Hanford
Site. The Wireline CPT is a method of exchanging CPT tools and sensors without
removing the entire rod string from the ground. The system is comprised of a wire
cable, a locking and retrieval system, and several characterization tools that
can be retrieved from any depth. The tools include a peizocone, a soil sampler,
an attachment that allows grouting of the hole during retraction, and a soil gas
sampler.
Download (51KB/2pp/PDF)
Geophysical Techniques
Surface (EM, Radiation, GPR)
3-D Gamma Ray Imaging for Soil
This DOE report presents the results, costs,
and lessons learned from a demonstration project conducted in August 1999 during
which the technology was used to survey the DOE Hanford site, 221-U facility as
part of the Canyon Disposition Initiative (CDI). The 3-D GammaModelar™ imaging
system was developed to remotely survey large areas for gamma ray emissions and
display the results in 3-D. The initiative will assist DOE in evaluating the feasibility
of using massive fuel reprocessing facilities (canyons) as waste repositories.
The system performed well during the demonstration and obtained emission and positioning
data on 21 objects of interest to the CDI study, including equipment and tanks.
Download (245KB/7pp/PDF)
3-D Seismic Imaging Survey for DNAPL
This report is part of the Naval Facilities
Engineering Service Center's TechData Sheet series and presents information from
field demonstrations of high-resolution seismic imaging surveys at four DOD sites:
Letterkenny Army Depot, NAS Alameda, Tinker AFB, and Allegany Ballistics Laboratory.
These demonstrations were used to obtain information relating to subsurface geology
and hydrostratigraphy, as well as leading to the discovery of free phase DNAPL
at one site. Seismic imaging is a noninvasive method, which involves transmitting
acoustic impulses from the ground surface to the subsurface, causing the impulses
to reflect off interfaces between the physical layers and reflect back to the
ground surface. The arrival times and intensities of the reflections are recorded
by sensors.
Download (346KB/8pp/PDF)
Cone Penetrometer Deployed Electrical Resistance Tomography and Ground Penetrating
Radar for Soil
Tomographic Site Characterization uses a cone penetrometer
(CPT) to deploy Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) and Ground Penetrating
Radar (GPR). This report discusses the use of Tomographic Site Characterization
at three sites - Applied Research Associates' (ARA) test site in Vermont, and
two areas at the Savannah River Site (SRS). At ARA, a prototype of the system
was tested. At SRS, the system was used to delineate the zone of influence of
a permeable reactive barrier well.
Download (669KB/25pp/PDF)
Electrical Conductivity of Soil and Groundwater at a Gas Manufacturing and Electrical
Generation Site
The Marshalltown Former Manufactured Gas Plant (FMGP) site was contaminated
with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The geology at the site consists
of glacial till over limestone. Electrical conductivity was used to characterize
site stratigraphy; 27 conductivity logs were performed in 5 days for $7,900. This
technology identified lithology, including layers not previously identified, and
the conductivity probe was able to directly detect DNAPLs. Investigators reported
that the probes broke when they encountered cobbles and boulders. Investigators
also reported that weathered bedrock was not distinguishable in the logs.
Download (234KB/16pp/PDF)
Electrical Conductivity of Soil and Groundwater at an UST Site
The Kansas Underground
Storage Tank (UST) site was contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. The geology
at the site consists of clay over sand. Electrical conductivity was used to characterize
site stratigraphy; 10 logs were performed over 3.7 acres for a cost of $3,600.
The electrical conductivity probe detected a saddle-like formation in a confining
layer that acted as a preferential migration pathway for LNAPL.
Download (133KB/14pp/PDF)
Electrical Resistance Tomography for Soil
This report discusses the use of Electrical
Resistance Tomography (ERT) at nine sites from 1991 to 1998, including early tests
at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and the Savannah River site,
and a more recent application at Dover Air Force Base (AFB). At LLNL, ERT was
used to map subsurface regions treated using steam injection in a demonstration
of the Dynamic Underground Stripping process. At Savannah River, ERT was used
to show changes in resistivity related to the heating and vaporization of pore
water and other materials in a demonstration of a radio-frequency heating process.
At Dover AFB, ERT was used to monitor the installation of grout and polymer barriers.
Download (486KB/34pp/PDF)
Electromagnetic 3-D Resistivity Surveys for DNAPL
This Environmental Security Technology
Certificate Program (ESTCP) report describes investigations to use quasi-static
electromagnetic (EM) resistivity surveys to detect dense non-aqueous phase liquid
(DNAPL) at two DoD installations with well-documented DNAPL problems- Alameda
Point and Tinker Air Force Base. The EM resistivity survey is a geophysical technique
using a surface source and a receiver in a bore hole that generates a 3-D image
of DNAPL-contaminated zones based on the different resistive properties of DNAPL
contamination and non-contaminated subsurface soil, rock, and groundwater. The
3-D resistivity method is interpretive and requires validation sampling and chemical
analysis to verify contamination is present. The validation sampling for the investigations
indicated the EM survey technique did not adequately predict where significant
DNAPL is located.
Download (918KB/54pp/PDF)
Electromagnetic/Seismic Reflection/Seismic Modeling Technologies for Soil and Groundwater at
an Air Force Base
The Tinker Air Force Base (AFB) site was contaminated with chromium
and chlorinated solvents. The geology at the site consists of mixed clay and sand
layers over sandstone. Seismic reflection and electromagnetometry were used to
characterize site stratigraphy for new well installation. 17,510 feet of profiles
were performed over 100 acres; these technologies were used to identify permeable
layers. Investigators reported that muddy surface conditions interfered with data
collection.
Download (958KB/16pp/PDF)
Geophysical Techniques to Locate DNAPLs – Federally-Funded
Projects Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by the FRTR, contains technology profiles on federally-funded projects that
use noninvasive geophysical techniques to locate DNAPLs in the subsurface. Eleven projects are
described, consisting of two from DOE, one from USGS, five from the Air Force, two from ESTCP, and
one from EPA. Techniques used include electrical impedance tomography, seismic reflectance,
cross-well radar, sensors, resistivity, inversion imaging, electromagnetic resistivity, seismic
resistivity, and partitioning tracers. Each profile consists of a technology description, as well
as information about status, cost, contacts, and references.
Download (1.3MB/32pp/PDF)
Geophysical Investigations at Multiple Hazardous Waste
Sites Newly Posted!
This report, compiled by EPA's Technology Innovation Program, contains 11 case studies about the
use of geophysical techniques for site characterization at hazardous waste sites. Techniques
include use of ground penetrating radar, magnetometry, electromagnetometry, electrical resistivity,
electrical conductivity, vertical seismic profiling, natural gamma logging, seismic reflection
surveys, and electromagnetic induction logging. Site types consist of those used for creosoting,
MGP, refinery, and plating, as well as those containing underground storage tanks and landfills.
The report also provides an overview of the case studies and a summary of the geophysical
techniques used along with their performance and lessons learned. Note that each case study also
is provided separately on this web site.
Downnload Part 1 (3MB/164pp/PDF)
Downnload Part 2 (2.2MB/28pp/PDF)
Ground Penetrating Radar and Electrical Resistivity for Groundwater
The Crystal
Refinery site was contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. The geology at the
site consists of sandy loam, sand, and clay over limestone. Ground penetrating
radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity were used to monitor groundwater contamination,
with two traverses performed over 2.3 acres for a cost of $5,800. These approaches
identified LNAPL located at the water table.
Download (137KB/14pp/PDF)
Ground Penetrating Radar and Electromagnetics for Soil and Groundwater
The Baker
Wood Creosoting site was contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
The geology at the site consists of silty loam over clay. Ground penetrating radar
(GPR) and electromagnetometry (EM) were used to delineate source areas and soil
contamination, with 100 traverses performed over 0.7 acres. GPR identified buried
structures that later investigation found to be contaminated, while EM delineated
near-surface soil contamination. Investigators determined that the penetration
depth of GPR was limited by shallow, dense clay soils, and that the penetration
depth of EM was limited by nearby structures.
Download (390KB/18pp/PDF)
Ground Penetrating Radar for Soil and Groundwater
The Ciba-Geigy site was contaminated
with chlorinated solvents and petroleum hydrocarbons. The geology at the site
consists of sandy fill over clay. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) was used to characterize
the stratigraphy of the site, with 85 traverses performed over 0.1 acres in two
days for a cost of $4,000. GPR identified a topographic low; later sampling confirmed
DNAPL at the location. Investigators found that dense clay limited the depth of
penetration of the GPR.
Download (321KB/14pp/PDF)
Ground Penetrating Radar, Electromagnetics, and Magnetometry for Soil and Groundwater
The Wurtsmith Air Force Base (AFB) site was contaminated with petroleum
hydrocarbons. The geology at the site consists of sand and gravel over clay and
sandstone. Ground penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetometry, and magnetometry
were used to monitor groundwater contamination. 2,700 feet of profiles were performed
for a cost of $7,700. These technologies identified an unknown LNAPL plume at
the site.
Download (670KB/14pp/PDF)
High Resolution Seismic Reflection for DNAPL
This report provides cost and performance
data for a seismic reflection survey technique used to generate a high-resolution,
three-dimensional (3-D) image of subsurface geologic, hydrogeologic, and DNAPL
contaminant source areas at four DoD sites: Letterkenny Army Depot, PA; Alameda
Naval Air Station, CA; Tinker Air Force Base, OK; and Allegany Ballistics Laboratory,
WV. The demonstration results showed that the 3-D seismic surveys were not effective
at directly detecting DNAPL; only one location out of 27 evaluated was found to
contain DNAPL. These results did not meet the project objective of verifying that
90% of the predictions for DNAPL were correct. However, the technology appeared
to be a useful tool for imaging subsurface conditions for site characterization
and for determining the most likely locations for DNAPL source zone migration
and accumulation, particularly in fractured bedrock settings.
Download (860KB/26pp/PDF)
Hydrogeologic Data Fusion Software for Groundwater
Hydrogeologic data fusion is a mathematical
modeling tool that can be used to combine various types of geophysical, geologic,
and hydrologic data from different types of sensors to estimate geologic and hydrogeologic
properties. It also is used to combine several mathematical techniques to calibrate
models of groundwater flow. The Hydrogeologic Data Fusion product developed under
DOE funding is called DFW/VAM3DF and has been demonstrated at several DOE and
DoD sites. For example, at Hanford/200 West Area, the product was used to combine
geophysical measurements and core data to map the location of a critical geological
layer that controls groundwater flow.
Download (682KB/20pp/PDF)
Magnetometry, Electromagnetics, Natural Gamma Logging, and Soil Gas Analysis Technologies
for Soil
The New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department (NMSHTD)
Underground Storage Tank (UST) site was contaminated with chlorinated solvents.
The geology at the site consists of sandy clay with clay layers over shale. Magnetometry,
electromagnetometry, and natural gamma were used to characterize site stratigraphy
for each sampling point location. Thirty-three profiles were performed over 15
acres, for a cost of less than $70,000. The gamma logs identified clay layers
that influenced vapor migration in the vadose zone, and logs were used to position
soil gas samplers.
Download (550KB/20pp/PDF)
Natural Gamma Logging, Magnetometry, and Electrical Conductivity Technologies for Soil
and Groundwater
The Trail Road Landfill site was contaminated with dissolved
inorganic and organic compounds. The geology at the site consists of sand and
gravel over clay and limestone. Natural gamma, magnetometry, electrical conductivity,
and temperature were used to monitor groundwater contamination, with 5 measurements
performed in 8 logs, for a cost of $4,200. These technologies were used to develop
continuous lithologic logs. Conductivity and temperature logs also identified
zones of groundwater contamination.
Download (1.6MB/14pp/PDF)
Seismic Reflection Survey, Ground Penetrating Radar, Natural Gamma logging, and
Electromagnetic Borehole Logging for Soil and Groundwater
The New Hampshire Plating Company
site was contaminated with chromium. The geology at the site consists of silty
clay over granite. Seismic reflection, ground penetrating radar (GPR), natural
gamma, and electromagnetometry were used to characterize site stratigraphy and
monitor groundwater contamination. 33 station measurements, 7 logs, and 5,800
ft of profiles were performed over 13.1 acres, for a cost of $43,100. These technologies
delineated stratigraphy and identified zones of groundwater contamination. Investigators
reported that dense clay and sediments limited the depth of penetration for GPR
and seismic signals.
Download (138KB/16pp/PDF)
Vertical Seismic Profile of Soil and Groundwater
The Kelly Air Force Base site
was contaminated with chlorinated solvents. The geology at the site consists of
a mix of sand, gravel, and clay over limestone. Seismic reflection was used to
map the bedrock topography; 317 station measurements were performed for a cost
of $15,900. The seismic reflection technology identified channels in bedrock where
later sampling found pooled DNAPL. Investigators reported that railroad noise
interfered with data collection.
Download (160KB/12pp/PDF)
In Situ/Borehole
Electromagnetic Borehole Flowmeter for Groundwater
This report presents the results from
case studies conducted by the EPA's Office of Research and Development at several
location, including: Columbus AFB, Mississippi; Oak Ridge National Laboratories,
Tennessee; The Oklahoma Refining Company Superfund Site, Oklahoma; Gilson Road
Superfund Site, New Hampshire; Mirror Lake, New Hampshire; Logan Martin Dam, Alabama;
and Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The electromagnetic borehole flowmeter evaluates
the vertical variation of hydraulic conductivity. It consists of an electromagnet
and two electrodes that are cast in epoxy, which are molded into a cylindrical
shape in order to minimize turbulence. The flowing water acts as a conductor and
the electromagnet generates a magnetic field which the electrodes measure. The
induced voltage is directly proportional to the velocity of the water.
Download (607KB/71pp/PDF)
HydroTechnics In Situ Flow Sensor
This report is part of a series of Technology Evaluation Reports produced by EPA's National Risk
Management Research Laboratory. The HydroTechnics flow sensors were used in measuring the
three-dimensional flow pattern created by operation of the Wasatch Environmental, Inc. groundwater
circulation well (GCW). The test was conducted at Cape Canaveral Air Station from July 2000 to
September 2001. The flow sensors are in situ instruments that use a thermal perturbation
technique to directly measure the velocity of groundwater flow in unconsolidated, saturated,
porous media. The evaluation was used to measure changes in groundwater velocities during
operation of the GCW, and to help define and evaluate three-dimensional flow patterns. At Cape
Canaveral, the sensors were located within a 15 ft horizontal groundwater circulation cell, and
were found to be responsive to changes in groundwater flow conditions within the cell.
Download (399KB/78pp/PDF)
In Situ Permeable Flow Sensor for Groundwater
This report is part of DOE's
Innovative Technology Summary Report series. This report provides cost and performance
data for the In Situ Permeable Flow Sensor (ISPFS) based on demonstrations conducted
at DOE's Savannah River and Hanford Sites, Edwards Air Force Base, and other sites.
One of the demonstrations was conducted at the Weeks Island Strategic Petroleum
Reserve Site, where ISPFSs were used to monitor groundwater flow into a sinkhole
that had formed at a former salt mine where DOE had stored large quantities of
crude oil in barrels. The ISPFS showed the site was unsuitable for the storage
of the crude oil. The oil was removed and the site abandoned. The ISPFS measures
the direction and velocity of groundwater flow in saturated, unconsolidated sediments.
The ISPFS is permanently installed in the ground and uses temperature sensors
to measure the flow of groundwater as it moves past the sensors. The ISPFS is
commercially available.
Download (423KB/21pp/PDF)
Multispecies Reactive Tracer Test for Groundwater
In April 1993 EPA's Office of Research
and Development conducted a field demonstration of a tracer test under variable
chemical conditions. The demonstration was conducted in a shallow, unconfined,
sand and gravel aquifer on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Approximately 10,000-liters
of groundwater with additional tracers were injected into the aquifer. The distribution
of tracers was monitored for over a year as the tracers were transported over
200 meters through an array of multilevel samplers. The added tracers were made
up of a nonreactive bromide ion, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and metal
complexes of EDTA.
Download (1.2MB/52pp/PDF)
Air Emissions
Airborne Lead Analyzer
This Environmental Security Technology Certificate Program (ESTCP) report presents results from
field demonstrations conducted in January 2000 at the Naval Amphibious Base located in Little
Creek, Virginia and a field demonstration performed in June 2000 at an outdoor firing range
located at MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, California. The Real Time Airborne Lead Analyzer is designed
to combine sampling, extraction, and analysis into a portable, automatic unit which analyzes
airborne lead and lead dust contamination onsite and near real time. The analyzer's primary
purposes are to provide ambient air monitoring and personal breathing zone analyses. Applications
of the technology include reporting occupational airborne lead levels during lead-based paint
abatement projects and near shooting ranges.
Download (378KB/33pp/PDF)
Field Test of an Ultraviolet Differential Optical Absorption Spectrometer for Remote Air
Toxics Sensing
This report describes a study that evaluated the use of Ultraviolet Differential Optical
Absorption Spectrometer (UV-DOAS) during and after capping and slope stabilization activities at
the Paxton Landfill in southeast Chicago. The UV-DOAS identifies and quantifies hazardous air
pollutants in real time. It uses a projector fitted with a Xenon vapor lamp, which transmits an
ultraviolet light beam to a spectrometer built within a receiver. The spectrums's absorption
bands are analyzed and specific gases are identified and quantified. At the landfill, the
projector was secured to the roof of a trailer at one end of the landfill, and the receiver near
another trailer located 232 meters away, along the landfill fence line. The UV-DOAS reported
concentrations of benzene, toluene, m-xylene, styrene, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide every three
minutes. The concentrations were compared with data obtained from VOC canister samples placed
along the beam path. The researchers noted several difficulties with the UV-DOAS system,
including comparability with canister results for organic compounds, and equipment
maintenance.
Download (6MB/98pp/PDF)
High Resolution Spectrometer Continuous Emissions Air Monitoring
The Compact High-Resolution Spectrophotometer (CHRS) is used to analyze, detect, and measure the
light produced when off-gas emissions from thermal treatment of mixed waste is stimulated by
plasma, spark, or focused laser excitation. It is less than one-tenth the size and weight of a
conventional spectrophotometer with comparable resolution. This report describes several
demonstrations where the CHRS was used as part of a multi-component continuous emissions monitor
(CEM) system.
Download (382KB/39pp/PDF)
Measurement of Fugitive Emissions at a Region 1 Landfill Newly Posted!
This report was prepared by EPA's National Risk Management Research Laboratory to describe the
results from a field study performed during September and October 2002 to at a Superfund site in
Somersworth, New Hampshire. The study used an open-path Fourier transform infrared (OP-FTIR)
spectrometer, which uses optical remote sensing-radial plume mapping (ORS-RPM) to evaluate
fugitive emissions. The focus of the study was to characterize the emissions of methane and
hazardous air pollutants in landfill gas emissions from the site. This information was needed to
help determine whether active controls were to be required. Results consisted of an emissions
contour map of the site and identification of three emission hot spots. Funding for this work was
provided by EPA's Monitoring and Measurement for the 21st Century Initiative (21 M2).
Download (2.3MB/51pp/PDF)
Miscellaneous/Leak Detection
Advanced Passive Acoustic Leak Location and Detection Verification System for Underground
Fuel Pipelines
This report describes the results from demonstration/validation testing of the pipeline acoustic
leak-location system (PALS), conducted from April to October 2000 at four locations. The test
locations were the Navy Construction Battalion Center, Port Hueneme, CA; Little Rock AFB, Little
Rock, AR; SERDP Test Pipeline Facility, Edison, NJ; and Sabre Army Heliport and Campbell Army
Airfield, Fort Campbell KY. PALS is a portable, computer-controlled, passive-acoustic system that
uses robust signal processing algorithms to accurately locate small leaks over separation
distances that are operationally practical. It consists of three cylindrical acoustic sensors,
three small pre-amplifiers, and a notebook computer with a data acquisition card. The sensors are
attached to the pipe wall or to a flange connection and measures the acoustic signal generated by
turbulent flow through a hole in the pipe. As a result of the testing, PALS was identified as
ready for commercial use.
Download (1MB/55pp/PDF)
Expedited Site Characterization and Source Remediation at Former Manufactured Gas Plant
Sites Newly Posted!
This report, prepared by EPA's Technology Innovation Program, in conjunction with states, industry
trade associations, and individual utilities, provides a summary of innovative strategies and
technical approaches for expediting site characterization and source material remediation at
former MGP sites. The report emphasizes the following three aspects: management tools; tools and
techniques for expediting site characterization; and technologies for treatment of MGP-related
wastes in soils. Specific tools for site characterization include field surveying tools such as
direct push drilling and imaging techniques for underground structures. Case studies about
technology use at selected MGP sites are included.
Download (9.8MB/221pp/PDF)
Low-Range Differential Pressure Leak Detection System for Small Leaks in Bulk Fuel Tanks
This report describes the results from a demonstration of a low-range differential pressure (LRDP)
leak detection system, conducted from March to June 2000 at Point Loma in California. The LRDP
system is a computer-controlled system, using a commercially-available differential pressure
sensor, to detect small leaks in bulk USTs ranging in size from 50,000 to 12,500,000 gallons. It
uses an in-tank level sensing unit, an embedded remote test controller to collect and analyze data,
and a host computer to initiate, report, and archive results from the test. The system was tested
in a 122.5 ft diameter, 2,100,000 gallon tank following EPA test procedures and met monthly
monitoring and annual precision (tightness) test compliance requirements using both 10-hour and
24-hour tests. The test was performed by an independent, third-party evaluator following
procedures approved by the National Work Group on Leak Detection Equipment.
Download (629KB/38pp/PDF)
Tracer Gas for Subsurface Barriers
This report is part of DOE's Innovative Technology
Summary Report series. The report discuses demonstrations of the SEAtrace (TM)
at Dover Air Force base in Dover, Delaware; Brookhaven National Laboratory in
Upton, New York; and Naval Air Station in Brunswick, Maine from 1997 to 1999,
and provides cost information. The SEAtrace (TM) Verification and Monitoring System
is an integrated system that can determine the size and location of leaks in subsurface
barriers constructed above the water table. A tracer gas is injected into the
contained area formed by the barrier and is allowed to diffuse within the barrier
to a targeted concentration. If a breach is present, the tracer gas diffuses through
the breach into the surrounding medium. The SEAtrace (TM) detects and analyzes
the tracer gas and offers long term monitoring of the barrier. The results of
the demonstrations indicated the system is able to locate flaws in barriers.
Download (678KB/30pp/PDF)