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November 12th, 2003 Sharon Richmond Monitoring groundwater biogeochemistry to determine predominant terminal electron accepting proccesses is essential when assessing the feasibility of natural attenuation or bioremediation of petroleum products and chlorinated alkanes. Current technology enables rapid, accurate assessment of relevant geochemical parameters in the field and laboratory setting. This presentation will include a discussion of when it's appropriate to monitor groundwater geochemistry, which parameters should be monitored, current methodology, monitoring frequency, and the interpretation and presentation of results. Several Alaskan case studies will be included to illustrate practical uses of geochemical data, the utility of adding commercially available microorganisms, and common problems encountered when monitoring groundwater geochemistry in permanently cold environments. Particular emphasis is given to the numerous biological degradation pathways of chlorinated solvents and how biogeochemistry affects those processes. |