Ozone for both Organic and Inorganic Compounds
Ozone is a relatively unstable molecule with a short half-life span that makes it an ideal oxidant for in-situ remediation of contaminants, as it reacts quickly in the subsurface and rapidly reverts to oxygen. Once ozone is introduced into the subsurface, the ozone gas can oxidize both organic and inorganic contaminants either directly with ozone molecules or through the generation of free-radical intermediates, such as hydroxyl radicals.
Common contaminants oxidized by ozone gas include aromatics, PAHs, chlorinated alkenes, pesticides, aliphatic hydrocarbons, phenols, and chlorinated solvents.
Ozone has been most widely used for vadose zone treatment and has also been injected into the subsurface along with air sparging for remediation in the saturated zone. Limitations of in-situ ozone oxidation in subsurface applications include its high reactive rate, instability, short half-life, and lower oxidation potential as compared to some liquid oxidants. In addition, since ozone is an unstable gas, it must be produced on-site using a treatment system. Advantages include ease of delivery, potential cost reduction as compared to liquid oxidant purchase, and the production of an oxidant source to enable subsequent biodegradation.
Eden professionals utilize a variety of oxidants and oxidant combinations based on target contaminants and site conditions. Oxidant selection and dosing is often determined by completion of a treatability study, performed in our in-house laboratory.