Degree
Master of Engineering Science
Program
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Supervisor
Gerhard, Jason I.
2nd Supervisor
O'Carroll, Denis M.
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
Bioremediation through the injection of electron donors and bacterial cultures is effective at treating chlorinated solvent contamination but faces limitations in low permeability zones where the injected amendments cannot be delivered successfully. Using electrokinetics in combination with bioremediation to enhance the delivery of amendments was tested at a chlorinated solvent contaminated field site, where lactate was injected into clay under a direct current. Advection at locations with higher hydraulic conductivities contributed to lactate transport and dilution of aqueous chlorinated solvents. There was evidence of successful delivery of lactate by electromigration (EM) in all monitoring locations with EM lactate transport rates between 1.3 to 3.0 cm/day. Lactate emplacement resulted in the stimulation of bacterial populations and evidence suggests some biodegradation of chlorinated solvents was observed on site. This research provides evidence that with further field investigation, electrokinetically-enhanced bioremediation has potential as a treatment strategy for contaminated low permeability strata.
Recommended Citation
Inglis, Ainsley M., "Electrokinetically-Enhanced Emplacement of Lactate in a Chlorinated Solvent Contaminated Clay Site to Promote Bioremediation" (2018). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 5600.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/5600