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Biodegradation modeling at aviation-fuel spill site

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5334275

Biodegradation has recently emerged as a effective process for contaminant attenuation in aquifers. In this paper, the authors present the development of a two-dimensional model (BIOPLUME II) for contaminant transport influenced by oxygen-limited biodegradation. The model uses a dual-particle mover concept to simulate the transport of contaminants and oxygen in the subsurface. The reaction between oxygen and the contaminants is assumed to be instantaneous and is simulated using the principle of superposition. The authors also present preliminary results from a modeling effort using BIOPLUME II at an aviation gasoline spill where biodegradation is known to occur. The model was calibrated to field data collected before the installation of an interception pumping system at the site. The model was also used to simulate field conditions at the site over a two-year period with the pumping system in operation. Results indicate that the model predictions match the observed data and the observed rate of contaminant mass loss at the site reasonably well.

Research Organization:
Rice Univ., Houston, TX (USA). Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering
OSTI ID:
5334275
Report Number(s):
PB-90-103045/XAB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English