Chemical Oxidation

Chemical oxidation is the process of oxidizing contaminants in the groundwater and/or soil by injecting an oxidant into the area of contamination. Common oxidants include hydrogen peroxide, Fenton’s reagent (hydroxyl radicals, produced by reacting hydrogen peroxide with iron catalysts), potassium permanganate, sodium permanganate, persulfate and ozone. These oxidants have varying strengths and stability and thus have varying degrees of effectiveness depending upon the contaminant and aquifer properties. Each of the chemical oxidants has advantages/disadvantages and site specific evaluations/pilot studies should be performed to determine the appropriate oxidant. This technology can generate exothermic reactions so proper safety measures and a good understanding of site conditions are critical when implementing this process. Often times it takes several injection events to adequately reduce contaminant concentrations. next

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