Interfacial Reduction-Oxidation Mechanisms Governing Fate and Transport of Contaminants in the Vadose Zone

Immobilization of toxic and radioactive metals (e.g., Cr, Tc, and U) in the vadose zone by the In Situ Gaseous Reduction (ISGR) using hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a promising technology for soil remediation. Earlier laboratory studies have shown that Cr(VI) in soil samples can be effectively immobilized by treatment with dilute gaseous H2S. A field test completed in 1999 at White Sand Missile Range, New Mexico, has shown a 70% immobilization of Cr(VI). The objective of this EMSP project is to characterize the interactions among H2S, the metal contaminants, and soil components. Understanding these interactions is needed to optimize the remediation system and to assess the long-term effectiveness of the technology. Proposed research tasks included: (A) Evaluation of the potential catalytic effect of mineral surfaces on the rate of Cr(VI) reduction by H2S and the rate of H2S oxidation by air; (B) Identification of the reactions of soil minerals with H2S and determination of associated reaction rates; (C) Evaluation of the role of soil water chemistry on the reduction of Cr(VI) by H2S; (D) Assessment of the reductive buffering capacity of H2S-reduced soil and the potential for emplacement of long-term vadose zone reactive barriers; and (E) Evaluation of the potential for immobilization of Tc and U in the vadose zone by reduction and an assessment of the potential for remobilization by subsequent reoxidation