In situ treatment of MNT, DNT and TNT at former explosives factory

Using concurrent pilot trials to determine the most appropriate remediation approach at a UK redevelopment site

Background

REGENESIS was asked to provide a remedial solution for groundwater contamination relating to a former explosives manufacturing facility in the UK, featuring complex geology. A fixed deadline had been set for the handover of the site to new ownership prior to redevelopment, and the timeframe for remediation was therefore limited.

The main objective of the treatment was overall betterment of the site condition via mass reduction of the dissolved phase propellant contamination. However, due to the unusual contaminant mix reported on the site, multiple pilot trials were undertaken to investigate the optimum degradation pathway of a co-mingled TNT, DNT, MNT plume.

Case Study Highlights

• REGENESIS carried out a degradation pathway literary review for TNT, DNT and MNT with the client (BAE Systems)
• Multiple (concurrent) pilot trials were undertaken, testing different products and degradation processes
• Full-scale remediation: two separate source area grid injections an in situ treatment barriers to treat the dissolved phase plumes, covering an area of 2,600m².
• The pilot treatment areas formed part of the full-scale treatment, and no further injections were required in those areas.
• Site challenges: unusual contaminant mix and complex geology
• Cost and result graph included

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