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Toxic Substances Hydrology Program

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Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids (NAPLs)

Non-aqueous phase liquids are liquids that are sparingly soluble in water. Because they do not mix with water, they form a separate phase. For example, oil is an NAPL because it does not mix with water, and oil and water in a glass will separate into two separate phases. NAPLs can be lighter than water (LNAPL) or denser than water ( DNAPL). Hydrocarbons, such as oil and gasoline, and chlorinated solvents, such as trichloroethylene, are examples of NAPLs.


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