Evaluation of Phytoremediation Effectiveness

Click here to start


Table of Contents

Evaluation of Phytoremediation Effectiveness

Monitoring phytoremediation of petroleum programs has specific considerations

By nature, phytoremediation of petroleum progresses slowly and subtly

Phytoremediation will be monitored for a long time - not months, but years

Sampling design needs to consider the length of the study

Contamination (e.g., TPH) is not homogeneously distributed in the soil matrix

Plant coverage demonstrates variability in field trials

RTDF program developed an analytical program to account for these issues

Common approach allows for comparison of data across the program

Methodology is focused on key hydrocarbons of analytical and regulatory significance

Sample Preparation and Analysis Flow

Example GC/FID Chromatogram Output

Example Expanded PAH Output

TPHCWG Sample Preparation and Analysis Flow

Example TPHCWG Chromatogram Output

TPHCWG Data

An extensive quality assurance program was applied to the program

Status of Field Sites and Planned Sampling Dates

Conventional remediation evaluation approach monitors the decrease in TPH or individual target compounds

Conventional methods of evaluation of petroleum phytoremediation effectiveness are limited in utility

Alternate views

Example of Conserved Internal Marker

Process effectiveness is measured as oil depletion relative to internal chemical markers.

Hopane is used as an internal marker for measurement of remediation effectiveness

Example of Hopane Calculation

Other normalization methods, such as those using higher molecular weight PAHs can be used

Weathering Ratios

Evaluation of risk reduction focuses on PAH and TPH ranges

Risk Based Screening Levels for Residential Surface Soils

Change in TPHCWG Distribution

Contact Information