Hydrostratigraphic analysis - The key to cost-effective ground water cleanup at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Cost-effective ground water cleanup requires a thorough understanding of the hydrogeologic factors that control the site-specific flow and transport of contaminants in the subsurface. At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), contaminants are distributed within a thick, complex sequence of alluvial sediments. We have used hydrostratigraphic analysis to divide this sequence into hydrostratigraphic units (HSUs) based on a detailed analysis of chemical, geological, and aquifer test data. HSUs are defined as sedimentary sequences whose permeable layers show evidence of hydraulic communication. In contrast, hydraulic communication between HSUs is restricted across HSU boundaries. HSUs have been a useful management tool for implementing site-wide remediation by improving our ability to identify and target contaminant migration pathways, delineate individual plume geometries, identify the relationship between plumes and source areas, and better define hydraulic capture areas. With a better understanding of LLNL subsurface conditions, we are more effectively implementing remediation plans, improving cleanup time, and reducing overall project costs. Hydrostratigraphic characterization has been instrumental in communicating the contaminant distribution, subsurface flow pathways, and the cleanup approach to the Department of Energy (DOE), regulatory agencies, and the community.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 108102
- Report Number(s):
- UCRL-JC-120614; CONF-950868-18; ON: DE96000328; TRN: 95:022139
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: ER `95: environmental remediation conference: committed to results, Denver, CO (United States), 13-18 Aug 1995; Other Information: PBD: Jul 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Hydrostatigraphic analysis used to optimize ground water remediation at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Superfund Site
Hydrostatigraphic analysis used to optimize ground water remediation at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Superfund Site