ABSTRACT
THESIS: The use of PRBs (Permeable Reactive Barriers) for attenuation of cadmium
and hexavalent chromium from industrial contaminated soil.
STUDENT: Isabel Meza
DEGREE: Master of Science
COLLEGE: Sciences and Humanities
DATE: May, 2009
PAGES: 107
Permeable reactive barriers are considered among the most promising
technologies for contaminated soil and groundwater remediation. Zero-valent iron (ZVI),
hydroxyapatite (HA), and organic compost, with (OM) and without (OMx)
dextrose/sulfate were assessed in column studies for their ability to attenuate chromium
(Cr) or cadmium (Cd). PVC columns were packed with the reactive media and Cr or Cd
solutions were pumped through the columns at concentrations of 5, 50 and 200 mg/l.
These media were also assessed for their abilities to attenuate Cr and Cd from a
contaminated soil. The order of Cr removal was: ZVI > OMx > OM > HA. The ZVI
treatment maintained a removal rate of > 95% throughout the study. All treatments used
for Cd removal had a removal rate of 98% across all treatments. The ZVI was the only
treatment capable of retaining any of the mobile soil Cr and Cd from the contaminated
soil.