Immobilization of a Molybdenum contamination – Laboratory investigation
Project content
This project focuses on conducting a laboratory investigation to explore potential methods for immobilizing a Molybdenum plume in situ.
The primary goal of the remediation process through in situ reagent injection is to limit the spread of the plumes by binding Molybdenum (Mo) in a non-soluble form. This can be achieved by implementing a treatment zone, such as a permeable reactive barrier (PRB), near the property boundary. Additionally, if feasible, the aim is to reduce the highest concentrations of Mo in the source zone (saturated soil).
The feasibility study is carried out:
- to confirm the most suitable reagent for the selected site (manipulating the geochemistry such as pH, ORP, and dissolved oxygen to achieve the desired reactions)
- to investigate what dose of the reagent is necessary for the projects purposes.
- to examine the longevity/persistence of the minerals binding Mo in the aquifer by conducting tests in a batch reactor (flow-through soil reactor; column) for a period of over 6 months up to a year after treatment to determine if the Mo insolubility reverses.
To this purpose soil and groundwater samples from the source zones/plumes, as well as soil from the test site, will be characterized and evaluated. The laboratory tests will investigate the chemical and biochemical transformations and sorption of molybdenum Mo(VI) as stable, non-solubile molybdenum Mo(IV). Additionally, investigations using both batch and 1-D column-scale setups will be carried out, utilizing natural soil taken from the most contaminated soil and groundwater locations to assess the most promising technologies.
Project Manager
Department
VEGAS
Duration
01.07.2023 until 31.03.2025