Contaminant hydrogeology of toxic organic chemicals at a disposal site, Gloucester, Ontario. 2. Remedial investigation

The leading edge of the plume, characterized by high concentrations of chloride and aliphatic ethers, e.g., 1,4-dioxane, has moved off site. Most of the halogenated hydrocarbons however remain directly below the disposal site in the outwash aquifer and the overlying aquitard. Here there is considerable evidence of dehalogenation reactions, which are probably microbially catalyzed. Field and laboratory experiments were undertaken to determine the mobility of the aliphatic ethers and some halogenated hydrocarbons. The individual retardation factors show good correlation with the octanol-water coefficient of each compound. The remedial alternatives considered for the site are reviewed. Biorestoration may be required to complete aquifer decontamination. -from Authors