Remediation of Contaminated Soil and Groundwater using Nanotechnology

In recent years, the oil and gas industry has prioritized the remediation of residual and historical soil and groundwater contamination due In part to increased public awareness and media attention on the subject. As a result, in an effort to demonstrate social accountability and environmental sustainability, there has been a significant increase In the exploration and implementation of cost-effective and environmentally-friendly approaches for remediation of contaminated sites. This project will investigate novel methods, systems and apparatus to remove contaminants including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPL), toxic solvents (sulfolane and chlorinated compounds), spilled oil, and creosote from impacted soil and groundwater media. The proposed remediation method will utilize novel nanomaterials and high energy irradiations that are both cost-effective and efficient . These new materials and technologies are urgently needed, as contaminated sites are a considerable public health risk and pose an environmental protection concem.

Faculty Supervisor:

Simon Park

Student:

Jillian Murakami

Partner:

TRIUM Environmental Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering - mechanical

Sector:

Nanotechnologies

University:

University of Calgary