Technical Approach

Wells will distribute a hypersaline solution of KMnO₄ at extremely high concentrations at strategic points within a contaminated aquifer. Because of density differences, the dense KMnO₄ fluid will move far away from the injection wells without wholesale displacement of the contaminated fluid—effectively the KMnO₄ will underride the less saline groundwater. These localized reservoirs of KMnO₄ slowly release oxidants in the zone of reaction. The tendency for dense fluids to underride the ambient groundwater will enable relatively small volumes of KMnO₄ to spread away from treatment wells, making it practical to treat larger plumes. The resulting dense wedge of KMnO₄ will resist advection in the ambient flow. Moreover, the dense fluid tends to move vertically and cause KMnO₄ to penetrate less permeable layers, which often sequester contaminants from the more active portions of the flow system. These science innovations combine to create the efficiency in treating deep plumes by using a relatively small number of wells and taking advantage of the density underride to broadly distribute small, less costly quantities of KMnO₄. The possibility of using a biopolymer to create a slow release solid in situ also will be examined. This novel process could reduce treatment costs by sequestering KMnO₄ from natural oxidation processes and by providing localized opportunities for partitioning and sorption of the contaminants.