International Journal of Soil, Sediment and Water

International Journal of Soil, Sediment and Water

Journal Volumes

Journal Volume

International Journal of Soil: Volume 1

Journal Volume

International Journal of Soil: Volume 2

Journal Volume

International Journal of Soil: Volume 3

Description

<h2>Mission of an Online, Open-Access, Peer-Reviewed Publication</h2> <p> The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a global leader in the development of science and engineering tools for environmental assessment and management. </p> <p>
<p> From a technical perspective, we encourage submittals addressing the full breadth of environmental science and engineering in the context of soil, sediment, and water. General areas of interest and importance include (but are by NO MEANS limited to—the maximum effectiveness of this journal will depend to a great extent on the breadth of topics addressed in its content) analytical methods (chemical, statistical, biological, field, laboratory), biogeochemical processes (chemical fate and effects, materials cycling, energy flow), risk analysis (ecological and human health), remediation and restoration, regulation, policy, and private sector perspectives. </p> <p> Examples of specific topics of immediate interest include environmental aspects of pharmaceuticals and nanotechnology products, biotechnology risks and benefits, effects of climate change on environmental behavior of chemicals, importance of environmental history in present and future condition of soils, sediments and waters, pharmacokinetic and toxicologic behavior of chemicals and chemical groups, microbial processes and environmental chemicals, chemical and environmental forensics, risks and benefits of emerging technologies and emerging chemicals, pollutant behavior in urban ecosystems, ecosystems aspects of soil, sediment and water in the context of human interactions with the biosphere. </p>

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Now showing 1 - 10 of 47

Analysis of Sulfur in the Copper Basin and Muddy River Sites
Berger, Michael; Zou, Ling; Schleicher, Robert
The feasiblity of using a portable analytical instrument, the Niton XRF XLt 500He, was tested as a technique for sulfur analysis of wet sediment samples in the field. The effect of sample preparation on the precision and accuracy of sulfur determination was specifically evaluated. The Niton XRF XLt 500He uses X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to detect different elements. This unit employs a helium purge to allow the analysis of elements lighter than potassium. Samples with sulfur varying from 0.3 to 2.0% were successfully measured with the instrument. The precision of the unit is excellent and the limit of detection can be extremely low with careful attention to sample preparation. The instrumental limit of detection for sulfur was estimated as 70 ppm.
Effects of Soil Matrix and Aging on the Dermal Bioavailability of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in the Soil
Turkall, Rita M.; Skowronski, Gloria A.; Abdel-Rahman, Mohamed S.
The potential health risk from exposure to chemically contaminated soil can be assessed from bioavailability studies. The aims of this research were: (a) to determine the dermal bioavailability of contaminants in soil for representatives of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon class of chemicals, namely, benzo(a)pyrene and naphthalene, and (b) to examine the relative contribution of soil matrix and chemical sequestration in soil with time (“aging”) on their bioavailability. In vitro flow-through diffusion cell studies were performed utilizing dermatomed male pig skin and radioactive chemicals to measure dermal penetration. Volatilization of naphthalene was predominant in reducing the amount of chemical available for dermal penetration. Immediate contact with either of two soils reduced volatilization, however, only the soil with higher clay content resulted in reduced penetration. Aging in higher sand content soil and higher clay content soil further reduced skin penetration by 23 and 70 fold, respectively, versus naphthalene in the absence of soil. Benzo(a)pyrene penetration was reduced >88% following immediate contact with either soil with further reductions occurring after aging. While aging in either soil reduced the dermal penetration of both naphthalene and benzo(a)pyrene, the effect on naphthalene was much greater. The results of this study suggest that the bioavailability from dermal exposure to the polycyclic aromatic chemicals examined can be significantly reduced by soil matrix and aging in soil, resulting in reduced potential health risk following dermal exposure.
Berry's Creek: A Glance Backward and a Look Forward
Wright, Victoria A.; Blauvelt, Robert P.
Berry’s Creek is a tidal tributary in Bergen County, New Jersey between the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers, which extends almost seven miles from its discharge into the Hackensack River upstream towards its origins just south of Teterboro Airport (Figure 1). The approximately 12 square miles of the Berry’s Creek watershed (about 8% of the total Hackensack River watershed) includes numerous marshes, channels, wetlands, and drainage ditches that serve as habitat to hundreds of plant and animal species (USEPA et al., 2005). Widely recognized as one of the keys to the sustained ecological viability of the Meadowlands, Berry’s Creek and its associated canals also hold the distinction of being one of the most contaminated waterways in northeastern U.S (USEPA, 2008a).In 1929 the F.W. Berk Company (later known as the Wood-Ridge Chemical Company) opened its doors as a mercury reclamation and recovery center. This facility would process spent or off-spec fungicides, pesticides, batteries, thermometers, dental amalgams, and other mercury containing wastes and remove or recover the mercury for re-sale or reformulation into new products (USEPA, 2006). By 1974, when operations at its 40-acre site ceased, the plant had changed owners and names several times and some estimates have indicated that up to 270 tons of mercury could have been discharged into portions of Berry’s Creek, but the actual amount of mercury released from point sources on the Creek is unknown (i.e., could be more or less). Based on one study, at its peak operation, between two to four pounds of mercury were being released into Berry’s Creek every day (NJDEP, 1992). Additional investigations are ongoing that will provide further data on the validity of these estimates. In 2005, USEPA completed its Framework Document for Berry’s Creek (USEPA et al., 2005), which attempts to establish the guidelines for the characterization and investigation of the mercury and other heavy metal contamination present in Berry’s Creek sediments. Critical to the success and effectiveness of these upcoming characterization activities is an understanding of not only how the contaminants were released but also the most probable (and implementable) remedial alternatives available for the waterway. Our presentation provides both a historical perspective on the discharges into Berry’s Creek and establishes an ecological framework in which to consider and carryout future cleanup actions.
BIOSCREEN, AT123D and MODFLOW/MT3D a Comprehensive Review of Model Results
(2010-01-01) Cecan, Liliana; Schneiker, Robert A
The Domenico equation is commonly used to evaluate long term risks associated with contaminated groundwater. Numerous groundwater models are based on it, including BIOSCREEN and BIOCHLOR. This paper compares the results from BIOSCREEN, AT123D and MODFLOW/MT3D groundwater models. Results from the AT123D and MODFLOW/MT3D models indicate that BIOSCREEN significantly under estimates contaminant mobility and thus exposure risks. This was unexpected as BIOSCREEN results are commonly assumed to be extremely conservative. In fact BIOSCREEN did produce the highest downgradient concentrations; however it took unreasonable long periods of time to achieve them. Such lengthy time periods are not typically evaluated as part of a risk evaluation. Even more surprisingly BIOSCREEN produced the same peak concentration for all contaminants and for all aquifer types tested. Both contaminant concentration and travel times from AT123D and MODFLOW/MT3D models were almost identical. Furthermore these results varied with contaminants and aquifer properties as expected. The influence of biodegradation was also evaluated. Inclusion of conservative biodegradation rates made BIOSCREEN the least conservative model by far. This is because the lengthy travel times produced by BIOSCREEN provide a longer period of time over which biodegradation works.
Background Versus Risk-Based Screening Levels - An Examination of Arsenic Background Soil Concentrations in Seven States
Vosnakis, Kelly A.S.; Perry, Elizabeth
Arsenic is often present in soils naturally or from historical anthropogenic activities. Arsenic is commonly a constituent of potential concern at environmental remediation sites, even where there is no reason to suspect a release. Site risks are frequently driven by arsenic, and risk-based screening levels below background are not uncommon. However, determining whether arsenic concentrations are consistent with background typically requires an extensive background data set. The ability to gain access to representative background locations owned by third parties is problematic at best in any characterization study. Consequently, many sites undergo characterization and potentially remediation for arsenic concentrations in soil that may in reality be representative of background (natural or anthropogenic). This study examines a large soil arsenic background data set to provide insight on typical concentrations of arsenic that are naturally occurring or represent anthropogenic background. Between 1995 and 2001, over 1,600 background soil samples were collected from 189 sites in Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Samples were collected using strict Quality Assurance/Quality Control procedures under a United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Superfund Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) and were analyzed by USEPA-approved laboratories. All data were verified and 10% underwent detailed data validation. Arsenic concentrations in samples retained for statistical analysis ranged from 1.1 mg/kg to 89 mg/kg. Data are evaluated by state and by geology and are compared to USEPA and state risk-based screening levels (RBSLs). Some standard background threshold values (BTVs) are derived for each state and distinct geology. The BTVs are greater than RBSLs. This extensive, regional data set should be considered by all stakeholders involved in relevant risk-based decisions related to arsenic in soils. The consideration of this data set and the BTVs may aid in the appropriate identification of arsenic in soils below typical background concentrations. In turn, the use of BTVs may aid in identifying where risks are truly elevated relative to background, and thus where remediation may or may not be appropriate.
Off-Grid Photovoltaic System in a Temperate Climate Greenhouse in Virginia
(2010-01-01) Mose, Douglas G; Mandes, Evans; Metcalf, James
Most buildings require power produced by fossil fuels, the extraction and consumption of which contaminate our environment. The Virginia Center of Basic and Applied Science (CBAS, INC) constructed a building in a remote forested area as a plant and fish nursery (and living space for staff) to be operated by solar electrical power. Comfortable summer interior temperature is facilitated by an open design, 15,000 cubic foot interior, ceiling fans, many large windows and doors, with a large sun-screen eave off the 1000 square foot south-facing roof. Comfortable winter temperature is possible because the building has no tree-shade, thick well-insulated walls and roof, a low number of air changes per hour, and when necessary the surrounding forest provides wood stove heat. The energy challenge of the research was to develop a system facilitating 24-hour and year-round use (primarily for lights, fans, pumps, heaters and staff living requirements) that did not need to be connected to the local electrical utility company. On average, the facility uses 3-4 kilowatt hours per day. The solar power is captured by 8 solar panels which charge a bank of deep-cycle batteries, which in turn generate the power for the facility. The complete system (solar panels, charge controller, batteries, DC-to-AC inverter, 110-to-220 transformer) cost about $10,000, about 5% of the total facility cost.
Dredge Material Stabilization Using the Pozzolanic or Sulfo-Pozzolanic Reaction of Lime By-Products to Make an Engineered Structural Fill
Beeghly, Joel; Schrock, Michael
Large contracts are being awarded to remove and find beneficial uses for dredge spoil. An example is the Delaware Deepening Project which encompasses over 100 miles of the Delaware River. One of the challenges is to find economical and environmentally suitable means to stabilize and solidify (S/S) the solids so they can be reused for structural fill and/or cover soil. This lab study demonstrates the methodology and results of using three sustainable industrial by-products that can compete with Portland cement. They are lime kiln dust (LKD), Class F coal fly ash, and spray dryer ash (SDA). SDA is the residue from spray dryer absorbers, a more common type of advanced sulfur dioxide gas scrubber that uses lime. There are existing spray dryer installations in the Middle Atlantic States and several new units are coming on-line in Massachusetts and New Jersey. These spray dryers could provide an inexpensive S/S additive and an opportunity for CO2 credits. These industrial by-products were investigated to determine their potential for stabilizing and solidifying the dredge solids from the Cox Creek confined disposal facility (CDF) for Baltimore, MD with the objective of making a structural fill material. Another lab study utilized harbor dredged material from the USCOE Ft. Mifflin Confined Disposal Facility near Philadelphia, PA. The performance of the spray dryer ash is compared with a blend of LKD and Class F fly ash. Adequate lime alkalinity needs to be added to take advantage of the pozzolanic and sulfo-pozzolanic, cementitious reaction potential. Raising the pH levels to 9-11 for pozzolanic hydration reactivity coincide with pH levels that stabilize leachable heavy metals, including oxyanions. Furthermore, in order to produce structural fill the moisture of the dredge spoil must be reduced as close as possible to the optimum moisture content resulting in compaction at or near maximum dry density. The addition of these by-products will add dry bulk solids and in addition are known to chemically reduce the free moisture through several types of hydration reactions. A “mellowing” period before compaction may help prevent swelling from Ettringite precipitation. Strength measurements with several curing times are presented.
Construction of Biologically Productive Artificial Tidal Flats with Solidified Sea Bottom Sediments
Imai, Daizo; Kaneco, Satoshi; Dabwan, Ahmed H.A.; Katsumata, Hideyuki; Suzuki, Tohru; Kato, Tadaya; Ohta, Kiyohisa
Ago Bay is a typical enclosed coastal sea that is connected to the Pacific Ocean via a very narrow and shallow entrance. The bay has been organically contaminated by the practice of culturing pearls, which has been ongoing for the past 110 years. To address this problem, a new technology — the Hi-Biah-System (HBS) —, which dewaters muddy dredged sediments and changes the muddy sediments for raw materials of tidal flat, was introduced in 2005. The solidified product from the sediments with the HBS was used to construct the tidal flat. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the environmental conditions of the constructed tidal flat 2 years after its construction. We monitored the physico-chemical (oxidation−reduction potential, acid volatile sulphide, loss on ignition, water content, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, chlorophyll a, and particle size) and biological characteristics of a constructed tidal flat (five sections) and a natural tidal flat (six points). At the same tidal level, the physico-chemical parameters were similar among the constructed and the natural tidal flats. However, the biomass and macrobenthic population were higher in the constructed flat compared to the natural one. According to the findings of this study it can be concluded that the solidified products from the sediments with the HBS could provide useful materials for constructing the tidal coastal environment.
Characterization of Multiple Chlorinated Solvent Plumes Due to the Impact of TCE Screening Level Reduction
(2010-01-01) Dickson, James R.; Lonergan, Andrew; Stenson, Rob; Winkeljohn, Chris
The reduction in the trichloroethylene (TCE) vapor phase screening level by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in 2004 prompted a re-evaluation of groundwater contaminant source areas, transport mechanisms, and commingling of multiple CVOC plumes within a complex river basin at a confidential site in the Midwest. A USEPA Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) dictated that the former owner of the facility investigate and perform residential and commercial vapor phase removal action to achieve compliance with revised indoor air and subslab action levels. The AOC did not differentiate contaminant source areas, transport, or commingled contaminants. In response, a comprehensive re-evaluation of the river basin hydrogeology and groundwater chlorinated volatile organic compound (CVOC) distribution was completed to facilitate demarcation of the AOC vapor phase removal action boundary and to minimize cleanup of contaminants not attributable to the facility. CVOCs, including TCE, are hydrophobic compounds that are heavier than water which tend to persist as residual contamination in aquifer matrix and bleed off slowly over time into the groundwater. In 2007, an integrated investigation and review of remediation reports filed with state regulators, USGS hydrogeologic reports, and historical groundwater elevation data was conducted. The data were evaluated to identify additional CVOC source areas, map known CVOC plumes, establish groundwater flow transport pathways, and determine the potential for commingled CVOC plumes. Understanding the complex groundwater flow regime, strongly influenced by river stages, flood control structures, municipal well field production, and engineered recharge basins, was critical to resolving the migration pathway of multiple CVOC plumes. All data collected was compiled into a series of CVOC overlay maps to provide a working river basin model of CVOC distribution and migration based on groundwater flow. The distribution of CVOC source areas results in numerous instances of CVOCs plumes becoming commingled due to the groundwater flow patterns. As a result, the former owner recommended the reduction of the AOC vapor phase removal action boundary area by over 60%, thus limiting the action area to immediately downgradient of the facility based on groundwater flow while identifying additional potential responsible parties (PRPs) for future cost recovery actions.
Mercury and Cyanide Used as Indicators of Sediment Transport in Ephemeral Washes at the Techatticup Mine and Mill Site, Nelson, Nevada (USA)
Sims, Douglas Brian; Francis, Anthony
Mercury (Hg) and cyanide (CN-) are used as indicators of aquatic transport down gradient in ephemeral washes. The pattern of transport for Hg and CN- should mimic other metals (As, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni, Ba) found in the soils. Hg and CN- were chosen to illustrate transport in surface soils because Hg and CN- are utilized in the milling process and Hg is available from the local geology. Stamp mills that utilize Hg and CN- flotation concentrate naturally occurring metals as byproducts. Soil samples collected from a wash system bisecting the mine waste site contained metal concentrations significantly above background levels. Mercury and cyanide concentrations showed dissimilar distribution patterns throughout the wash system with Hg and CN- 30- and 95- times greater than background concentrations. Concentrations of various heavy metals corresponded well with the concentrations of mercury and cyanide throughout the wash system validating the use of specific analytes as tracers of transport of contaminated soils.