Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2-23-2014

Abstract

Air sparging is a technique that uses the injection of a gas (e.g., air, oxygen) into the subsurface to remediate saturated soils and groundwater contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Contaminant-removal efficiency and air-sparging performance are highly dependent on the pattern and type of airflow. Airflow, however, suffers from air channel formation (i.e., preferential paths for airflow), limiting remediation to smaller contaminated zones. This paper presents the results of experimental work investigating the possibility of controlling and improving airflow patterns through a saturated glass-bead medium using electromagnetic (EM) waves to enhance air sparging. The test setup consists of a resonant cavity made of an acrylic tank covered with transparent, electrically conductive films. Experimental measurement of the electric field component of EM waves is performed at different frequencies. Airflow pattern is also studied at different air-injection pressure levels with/without EM stimulation. The zone of influence (ZOI) during air sparging is monitored using digital imaging. A quantitative approach is then taken to correlate the characteristics of EM waves and airflow patterns.

Copyright Statement

This is an author-produced, peer-reviewed version of this article. The final, definitive version of this document can be found online at Geo-Congress 2014 Technical Papers: Geo-Characterization and Modeling for Sustainability, published by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Copyright restrictions may apply. doi: 10.1061/9780784413272.157

Download

Share

COinS