Environmental Health - Toxic Substances Hydrology Program
Improper disposal methods, leaking tanks and pipes, and chemical spills have contaminated fractured-rock aquifers in and around many industrial centers across the Nation. The restoration and protection of groundwater quality depend on knowledge of the physical, chemical, and microbiological processes that affect the fate of these chemicals in fractured-rock aquifers.
Long-term field experiments are currently conducted at a former aircraft engine test facility in West Trenton, New Jersey, where high concentrations of trichloroethene persist in sedimentary rocks despite two decades of groundwater pumping and treatment.
This investigation provides the science and tools to understand the actual versus perceived health risks due to anthropogenic chemical contaminants that have persisted for decades in fractured-rock aquifers, and to provide the science needed to economically and effectively minimize exposure and actual health risks.
This laboratory-based study provides information for understanding enhancement of trichloroethene (TCE) biodegradation in a simulated groundwater system. ...
A groundwater bioaugmentation field experiment demonstrated the effectiveness and potential weaknesses of this cleanup technology ...
Natural biodegradation of trichloroethylene (TCE) in a contaminated fractured rock aquifer in New Jersey contributes substantially to site cleanup operations. ...
Access to all publications from this investigation.
A collection of photos illustrating this investigation's activities.
The NAWC research team maintains its own home page that contains additional information about research at the site.
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