Evaluation of a Field-Scale UV/H2O2-Oxidation System for the Purification of Groundwater Contaminated with PCE

Abstract

A field-scale demonstration using UV/H₂O₂ was conducted in order to evaluate its effectiveness for the treatment of groundwater contaminated with tetrachloroethylene (PCE). The system was efficient in removing PCE in low-alkalinity groundwater containing moderate levels of the contaminant and within feasible operating costs. Low concentrations of chloroacetic acids were detected in the reactor effluent; however, the levels of both PCE and byproducts were clearly acceptable according to the drinking water criteria. Economic cost analysis showed UV/H₂O₂ to be on the same level as carbon adsorption. The operating costs attributed to electrical energy and hydrogen peroxide depended on the purification level chosen as target, but were only a minor component of the total purification costs.

Keywords:

• Tetrachloroethylene
• groundwater
• UV-oxidation
• chloroacetic acids
• cost evaluation