SUMMARY OF THE REMEDIATION TECHNOLOGIES DEVELOPMENT FORUM
NON-AQUEOUS PHASE LIQUID CLEANUP ALLIANCE MEETING

Hilton Crystal City
Arlington, Virginia
February 3-4, 2004

WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS
Mark Lyverse, ChevronTexaco Energy Research and Technology Company
Bob Maxey, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Solid Waste (OSW)

Mark Lyverse and Bob Maxey, co-chairs of the Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (NAPL) Cleanup Alliance, welcomed attendees (See Attachment A) to the meeting. Lyverse provided background information on the three major projects that Alliance members are working on: (1) developing a NAPL Management Decision Framework (NMDF); (2) creating a light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) training program; and (3) investigating and remediating a ChevronTexaco site in Casper, Wyoming. Maxey informed the group that the meeting's priority would be preparing Module 1 of the LNAPL training program for external review. Lyverse thanked Alliance members for the work they performed over the last 3 months to move Module 1 toward completion.


THE ALLIANCE'S TRAINING PROGRAM

The RTDF NAPL Cleanup Alliance is developing a series of training modules that describe the technical aspects of NAPL distribution and mobility, correct common misconceptions about NAPL, and explore NAPL management issues. These modules will include: Module 1 (The Basics), Module 2 (NAPL Management), and Module 3 (Advanced Topics). Module 1 and 2 have already been started, with Module 1 nearing completion. During this meeting, Alliance members focused their attention on Module 1 and talked about changes that need to be made in order for Module 1 to receive the RTDF's stamp of approval. Carolyn Perroni of Environmental Management Support, Inc. (EMS) led the discussion.

Module 1

Vic Kremesec, BP America, Inc., informed the group that he had presented the current Module 1 training program to both regulators and consultants four times over the past two months. Each presentation lasted approximately 3.0 to 3.5 hours, depending on the number of questions that audience members asked. Kremesec noted that reaction to the training has been positive. Lyverse questioned whether the length of the presentation (approximately 100 slides) is appropriate for a Module entitled "The Basics." Kremesec said that he believes the presentation is an appropriate length, noting that you cannot have a good scientific discussion about NAPL without the basic concepts strongly in hand. Maxey agreed, stating that for proper training, a lengthy presentation is necessary.

Module 1 - Changes
A facilitated discussion was held to review the changes that should be made to Module 1 before it is released for external review. Changes were suggested over the previous 3 months and those where consensus had not been reached were discussed. Alliance members presented these changes to the group and explained why each change will improve the training module.

Dawn Kaback, Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC)
During Kaback's presentation, consensus was reached over the following changes:

Brian Smith and Jeff Hostetler, Trihydro Corporation
Smith and Hostetler were concerned that some of the slides could shed questionable light on specific analytical procedures. They added that there are many ways to look at technical issues and that Module 1 should be less prescriptive in nature. During the presentation, the group reached consensus on the following changes.

Vic Kremesec, BP America, Inc.
Kremesec presented the comments of Don Lundy and Mary Ann Parcher of ES&T. While Lundy and Parcher referenced a significant number of slides, Kremesec focused only on the most pertinent. During his presentation, the Alliance reached consensus on the following changes:

The Alliance also discussed comments provided by John Wilson, who was absent from the meeting:

Before sending Module 1 out for external review, Yager asked for a list of people who have reviewed the training. Kremesec asked if he could look at Jim Weaver's comments.

Module 1- Packaging and Delivery
With Module 1 nearing completion, it is important to determine how best to package and present the training program so that it reaches the appropriate personnel. For this to happen, Alliance members agreed to develop (1) a delivery format, (2) a testing strategy, and (3) a roll-out strategy. During this meeting, Alliance members focused on the delivery format and offered the following ideas:

After debating which delivery format to pursue, the Alliance agreed that an Internet seminar would be the most cost effective and beneficial test strategy. Yager informed the group that before any of the delivery formats can be implemented, Module 1 first must be approved by RTDF. For initial review, she stated that the EPA will schedule a seminar, send out slides and background materials 2 weeks prior to the seminar, and facilitate the training session via the Web. Feedback and comments from this session will be taken over the phone and reviewed by the Alliance.

Module 1 - External Review
Thus far, Alliance members have had a chance to review the training program, but there has been little response from outside parties. Kaback said that this is to be expected, noting that typical response rates hover around 20 percent. With this in mind, Huff suggested that it would be best to conduct a formal review using face-to-face training and ask for both verbal and written reviews upon completion. Others asserted that an Internet seminar would be more accessible and therefore beneficial in terms of obtaining comments. With this in mind, Kremesec proposed the following schedule:

Kaback proposed that after this initial review takes place (sometime in April) a broad Internet seminar should be scheduled for May.

Module 2

Module 2 is being developed to help people understand how the emergence of NAPL conceptual models (as discussed in Module 1) impacts NAPL management approaches. The training is intended for management involved in the NAPL decision-making process and should be 30 to 60 minutes long. Breed (of Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality [WDEQ]) led a discussion reviewing the purpose of Module 2 and presented a content outline as drafted by Ali Tavelli. Kaback stated that the current outline has solid content and a good progression, but that the draft slides are missing some of the key points that are presented in the NMDF. For instance, references need to be made to long-term vision, contingency plans, supplemental investigations, and evaluating management options. Kaback said she will develop some slides and send them to Tavelli with an explanation.

As it stands, the outline is too focused on goals and endpoints and needs to focus on the entire process. While there was little disagreement with the content of the outline, the Alliance agreed that it should incorporate more concepts from the NMDF. Perroni asked that the group assemble a team that will focus on pulling together these concepts over the coming months, and to schedule a conference call to discuss these concepts. Lyverse, Breed, Tavelli, and Harley Hopkins (of American Petroleum Institute) agreed to participate in this effort.


CASE STUDIES

ChevronTexaco, Texas Site
Mark Lyverse, ChevronTexaco

The Alliance has agreed that for Module 1 to be most effective, it must include actual examples of NAPL cleanup. In addition to the ChevronTexaco site in Casper, Wyoming, other sites have been proposed for inclusion. Lyverse suggested using a ChevronTexaco site in Texas as an example. He presented information about a number of assumptions that are commonly made at NAPL-contaminated sites.

Lyverse focused on a site in Texas where 100,000 gallons of light Texas crude oil (similar to diesel) were released in late 1999. The exposure was at the surface with source removal occurring soon after the release was discovered. The key variables of the release were recorded (time, duration, volume, and point sources), making it a good case study for evaluating NAPL plume development, genesis, and mobility. Both Cone Penetrometer Technology (CPT) and Rapid Optical Screening Technology (ROST) were used for evaluation, with the ROST investigation giving a better understanding of in situ conditions.

Both the CPT and ROST technologies helped build a strong conceptual model of the smear zone. The model indicates that approximately 4 feet of NAPL lies 10 feet below the water table and follows the path of least resistance. Due to subsurface pressure and the nature of the soil, the NAPL initially moved upgradient due to subsurface pressure. This counterintuitive movement proves that NAPL plumes may not behave as expected, and this should be noted in the Alliance's training program. After 18 months, the mobility of the NAPL has apparently decreased and has fallen below rates that are observable in the field. Although theoretical calculations suggest that there could be movement of 1 to 10 feet per year, this potential is expected to decrease over time as NAPL concentrations decrease. There is currently no risk to neighboring properties and the potential for future migration is being closely monitored.

The case study has been used by ChevronTexaco during internal workshops, as well as by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Key lessons learned from this case study include:

Smith asked if it would be possible to get a 3-dimensional representation of the plume. This would give a better sense of how NAPL follows the most conductive sediments and can actually move upgradient. Kremesec noted that this example includes many variables that the BP Casper site lacks and would be a good addition to the training program. He will work with Lyverse to see where this study best fits in Module 1.

ChevronTexaco Casper, Wyoming Site
Jeff Hostetler, Trihydro Corp.

Hostetler presented an update on the progress of ChevronTexaco's Casper, Wyoming remediation project. He informed the group that there has been a major administrative change since the September 2003 meeting as Jerry Breed has taken over the duties of Ali Tavelli. In addition, Randy Jewett was given a leadership role at ChevronTexaco's Cincinnati site, so Ed Wilson has stepped in to fill his place for the Casper site. Hostetler emphasized that a change in leadership roles is typically challenging for a site like the former refinery, and he commended the site team on a smooth transition. Hostetler's summary included the following notes:

For a technology to be used at the Casper site, it should be capable of altering the physical/chemical properties of NAPL in the subsurface. Of the mass of NAPL that remains at the Casper site, it is estimated that less than 2 percent can be mobilized by simple hydraulic stimulus. Therefore, the team is making a paper evaluation of several commercially available thermal and non-thermal technologies, including:

Each of these technologies has advantages and disadvantages. Vendors give varying information on the amount of NAPL they can remediate as well as the cost of that remediation. For instance, Casper has received estimates from $30 to $150 per cubic yard. Hostetler said that $30 may be economically feasible, but that $150 is much too expensive. The Casper team must now decide what criteria upon which to base future recommendations to ChevronTexaco.

Kremesec noted that thermal technologies create vapor problems that can present significant risk management challenges during application. In addition, very few studies exist about the nature of the reaction in the subsurface. Hostetler agreed, noting that chemical oxidation can cause the subsurface to behave as a large reaction chamber, noting that the reactions must be controlled. In the absence of such control, chemical oxidation can pose a threat, especially if there are other land uses in the surrounding area. Casper is a closed refinery on vacant land, which may enable the team to use secluded pieces of the smear zone, minimizing exterior risk. Nevertheless, Hostetler acknowledged, such issues need to be carefully considered.

Hostetler closed by stating that any technology that is applied at the Casper site must be capable of achieving one or more of the following goals in order for it to be considered a viable option:

EPA's Release of NAPL Case Studies
Kathleen Yager, U.S. EPA, Region 1

One of the Alliance's main goals is to exchange information and lessons learned about NAPL case studies with the public. With this in mind, Yager asked the group whether EPA can make information on various case studies available on the Internet. While the information contained in these studies may need to be simplified for the general public, it is important that documentation be made available. Perroni stated that EMS can create a Web page with links to background information for each study. In addition, EMS can draft a Web site devoted to excerpts from Alliance meetings.

Yager informed the group that her office has started gathering information on LNAPL removal projects. Three or four volunteers came forward with NAPL cleanup data, of which two retracted stating they were uncomfortable releasing such information. This leaves two sites: (1) a ChevronTexaco site in Cincinnati, Ohio, and (2) a BP site in Sugar Creek, Missouri. These sites focus on multi-phase extraction involving two different types of soil conditions. Yager suggested that draft reports be sent to both BP and ChevronTexaco for internal review. Once all comments have been addressed, and the Alliance conducts its own review, each study can be posted to EPA's Web site.

Hostetler informed the group that there are a number of projects that might be useful to post (17 total in the United States and Canada). Unfortunately, the availability of detailed information for these sites is limited, possibly as a result of site owner policy and/or because it was never collected or documented. Kaback said that while corporations may be willing to share background information such as the geology and hydrology of the site, companies are highly unlikely to share important information such as cost data and technology use. Hostetler stated that unless the Alliance is able to contact the key decision-makers in the cleanup project, it is unlikely that the Alliance will obtain the detailed information that it seeks.

Yager also shared information on EPA's upcoming Remediation Optimization Conference, to be held June 15-17 in Dallas, Texas. This conference will focus on accelerating site closings, improving remediation performance, and reducing costs through optimization. EPA will be releasing four or five new guidance documents at the conference including fact sheets, guides, and optimal contracting techniques.


NAPL MANAGEMENT DECISION FRAMEWORK

Dawn Kaback, Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC)

The Alliance has nearly completed development of its NMDF. This document will help people identify practicable and reasonable approaches for cleanup and long-term management of LNAPL sites. The framework focuses on the importance of collaboration and consensus-building among diverse stakeholders in the NAPL cleanup process.

Kaback informed the group that she has incorporated the Alliance member's comments into the latest NMDF document, and that a formal comment resolution may have to be drafted. She noted that the Alliance reviewed comments on the NMDF at the September 2003 Alliance meeting (see http://www.rtdf.org/public/napl/minutes/091103.htm). As a followup to that meeting the following comments have been addressed.1

Kaback also led a discussion over the revision of the flowchart entitled "NAPL Management Decision Framework Process." Kaback suggested that the bottom half of the chart is confusing and needs to be streamlined. In response, the box entitled Section 9.0 LNAPL Management Plan was changed to Section 9.0 Evaluate Progress. The group decided to leave the flowchart as is, adding a Section 9.0 box and shading that box to resemble the middle section of the chart. Hopkins asked when the changes will be finalized, to which Kaback requested that the Alliance give her until the end of the first week in March. She will send the current NMDF out for a final review and report back to the group by March 5, 2004. Yager asked how best to promote the NMDF document once all comments have been incorporated. Maxey stated that discussion sessions during conferences would work best. EPA's Remediation Optimization Conference was suggested, to which Kaback said she would submit an abstract on behalf of the NAPL Alliance.


NEXT MEETING

Alliance members agreed to hold their next meeting in May 2004. A conference call will be held on February 27, 2004 at 12 p.m. EST to identify possible agenda items. Some Alliance members suggested focusing the May 2004 meeting on a review of NAPL cleanup technologies. For example, the Alliance could invite three or four vendors representing different technologies to present their products to the group and limit the discussion to a set list of questions.


ACTION ITEMS

Several action items were identified during the meeting:

Module 1 - Changes

Module 1 - Packaging and Delivery

Module 2

Case Studies

NMDF

Next Meeting


ATTACHMENT A: ATTENDEES

David Ariail
Environmental Engineer
Groundwater Branch
Water Management Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
61 Forsyth Street (15-GW/DW)
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-562-9464
Fax: 404-562-9469
Email: ariail.david@epa.gov
Jerry Breed
Environmental Program Principal
Solid & Hazardous Waste Division
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality
122 West 25th Street
Herschler Building 4-W
Cheyenne, WY 82002
307-777-7752
Fax: 307-777-5973
Email: jbreed@state.wy.us
Don Cunningham
Environmental Engineer
Consultation/Information Management Branch
Environmental Restoration Division
Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center
1100 23rd Avenue (ESC 413)
Port Hueneme, CA 93043-4370
805-982-3684
Fax: 805-982-4304
Email: cunninghamdr@nfesc.navy.mil
James Higinbotham
Manager, Technical Consultant,
Global Remediation
ExxonMobil
3225 Gallows Road - Room 8B0212
Fairfax, VA 22037
703-846-6095
Fax: 703-266-5830
Email: james.h.higinbotham@exxonmobil.com
David Hohreiter
Senior Scientist
Blasland, Bouck & Lee, Inc.
6723 Towpath Road
P.O. Box 66
Syracuse, NY 13214
315-446-9120
Fax: 315-446-7485
Email: dh@bbl-inc.com
Jeff Hostetler
Hydrogeologist
TriHydro Corporation
920 Sheridan Street
Laramie, WY 82070
307-745-7474
Fax: 307-745-7729
Email: jhostetler@trihydro.com
Walter Huff
Chief, UST Division of Mississippi
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
101 West Capitol Street - 4th Floor
Jackson, MS 34201
601-961-5142
Fax: 601-961-5093
Email: walter_huff@deq.state.ms.us
Dawn Kaback
Director
Concurrent Technologies Corporation
999 18th Street - Suite 1615
Denver, CO 80202
303-297-0180
Fax: 303-297-0188
Email: kabackd@ctc.com
Victor Kremesec
BP Remediation Management Function
BP Business Center - Cantera I, 2ns Floor South
28100 Torch Parkway
Warrenville, IL 60555
630-836-7120
Email: kremesvj@bp.com
Mark Lewallen
Project Manager
Exxon Mobil
601 Jefferson Street
Houston, TX 77002
713-656-9185
Fax: 713-656-9191
Email: mark.e.lewallen@exxonmobil.com
Mark Lyverse
Hydrogeologist
Groundwater Technology Team
Chevron Texaco - Energy Research
Technology Company
Building 10 - Room 1604
100 Chevron Way
Richmond, CA 94802
510-242-1080
Fax: 510-242-5577
Email: mlyv@chevrontexaco.com
Robert Maxey
Environmental Engineer
Office of Solid Waste
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue (5304-W)
Washington, DC 20460
703-308-7273
Fax: 703-308-8638
Email: maxey.bob@epa.gov
John Meyers
Senior Technical Consultant
The Retec Group, Inc.
Building 22 - Suite 150
1726 Cole Boulevard
Golden, CO 80401
303-271-2116
Fax: 303-277-0110
Email: jmeyers@retec.com
Barbara Padlo
Environmental Engineer
Remediation Management-an affiliate of BP
28100 Torch Parkway (2S)
Warrenville, IL 60555
630-836-7136
Fax: 630-836-7193
Email: padlobi@bp.com
Carolyn Perroni
Senior Project Manager
Environmental Management Support, Inc.
8601 Georgia Avenue - Suite 500
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-589-5318
Fax: 301-589-8487
Email: carolyn.perroni@emsus.com
Ellen Rubin
Technology Innovation & Field Services Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue (5102G)
Washington, DC 20460
703-603-0141
Email: rubin.ellen@epa.gov
Brian Smith
Hydrogeologist
TriHydro Corporation
920 Sheridan Street
Laramie, WY 82070
307-745-7474
Fax: 307-745-7729
Email: bsmith@trihydro.com
Ali Tavelli
Program Principal
Voluntary Remediation Program
Solid & Hazardous Waste Division
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality
Herschler Building - 4th Floor West (Building A-W)
122 West 25th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002
307-777-5447
Fax: 307-777-5973
Email: a.ramirez-tavelli@att.net atavel@state.wy.us
Kathleen Yager
Environmental Engineer
Technology Innovation Office
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
11 Technology Drive
N. Chelmsford, MA 01863
617-918-8362
Fax: 617-918-8427
Email: yager.kathleen@epa.gov
J. David Zabcik
Environmental Advisor
Shell Oil Products (& Motiva Enterprises)
12700 Northborough Drive
Houston, TX 77067
281-874-4944
Fax: 281-874-7925
Email: JDZabcik@shellopus.com
 
Technical & Logistical Support Provided by:
Carolyn Perroni
Senior Project Manager
Environmental Management Support, Inc.
8601 Georgia Avenue - Suite 500
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-589-5318
Fax: 301-589-8487
Email: carolyn.perroni@emsus.com
Matthew Martin
ERG, Inc.
2200 Wilson Boulevard - Suite 400
Arlington, VA 22201-3324
703-841-0500
Fax: 703-841-1440
Email: matthew.martin@erg.com
Laurie Stamatatos
Conference Coordinator
ERG, Inc.
110 Hartwell Avenue
Lexington, MA 02421
781-674-7320
Fax: 781-674-2906
Email: laurie.stamatatos@erg.com

 


1 The numbering of the comments follows the numbering established in a memorandum that Kaback and Leslie Hay Wilson distributed on September 5, 2003.