Subsurface fluids screening by an analytical system employing a diffusion-limited and implantable sampling module deployable with a cone penetrometer
- Lucero (Daniel P.), Triangle, VA (United States)
- Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States). Chemical and Analytical Sciences Div.
An analytical system employing a diffusion-limited sampling module and a direct sampling ion trap for quantitative assessment of subsurface fluids was developed and field tested. The sampling module is deployable with a cone penetrometer. It can be retrieved and/or remain as an implant for an indefinite time period. The device geometry, comprised of two planar membranes enclosing a diffusion cell, provides good implant ruggedness and reliable service in the field. Also, the sampling module is protected within a push pipe housing to extend implant service life. Subsurface volatile organic compound (VOC) vapors, in nanoliter amounts, diffuse through the sampler membrane wall by a diffusion-limited process that is independent of the soil permeability. Sample vapors are transported to the surface for analysis by direct sampling ion trap, or other analytical devices. Metered pressurized or reduced pressure transport (carrier) gas is utilized for sample transport to the surface. The vapors obtained are a function only of the fluid partial pressure and the vapor conductance of the sampler. Thus, quantitative analytical data is obtained regardless of soil conditions. The sampling module was deployed in the field at Dover Air Force Base at depths of 5 to 8.5 feet by the US Army Site Characterization and Analysis Penetrometer System (SCAPS). Relatively small 1.75 inch diameter push pipe and the relatively small vapor samples extracted cause minimal soil disturbance which preserves the integrity of the sampler subsurface surroundings. Analytical results were obtained for the system sampler operating in real time and as an implant where equilibrium was obtained between sampler interior and the external surroundings.
- Research Organization:
- Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States); Department of Defense, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-96OR22464
- OSTI ID:
- 459337
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-970113-2; ON: DE97003657; TRN: AHC29708%%2
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Field analytical methods for hazardous wastes and toxic chemicals conference, Las Vegas, NV (United States), 29-31 Jan 1997; Other Information: PBD: [1997]
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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