Enhanced transport and transformation of zero-valent nanoiron in clay using direct electric current

Gomes, Helena I.; Ferreira, Célia; Ribeiro, Alexandra B.; Pamukcu, Sibel

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.2/14207

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Authors

Gomes, Helena I.

Ferreira, Célia

Ribeiro, Alexandra B.

Pamukcu, Sibel

Abstract(s)

One of the major obstacles to zerovalent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) application in soil and groundwater remediation is the limited transport, especially in low-permeability soils. In this study, direct current (constant potential of 5.0 V) was used to enhance polymer-coated nZVI mobility in different porous media, including a bed of glass beads and kaolin clay. The tests were conducted using a modified electrophoretic cell and with nZVI concentrations typical of field applications (4 g L−1 ). Experimental results indicate that the use of direct current can enhance the transport of the polymer-modified nanoparticles when compared with natural diffusion in low permeability or surface neutral porous medium. The applied electric field appeared to enhance the oxidation–reduction potential, creating a synergistic effect of nZVI usage with electrokinetics. Aggregation of the nanoparticles, observed near the injection point, remained unresolved.