ISSN: 1945-7545
CODEN: GTJODJ
Page Count: 7

X-Ray Radiographic Investigation of Perchloroethylene Migration at the Livingston Derailment Site

Ferrell, RE
Professor of geology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA

Arman, A
Director, Louisiana Transportation Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA

Grosch, JJ
Vice-president, Woodward Clyde Consultants, Baton Route, LA

Abstract

X-ray radiography of soil cores was used as the primary test method to determine the reasons for the permeation of perchloroethylene into apparently impermeable clay layers at a hazardous chemical spill site. X-ray powder diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and chemical analysis were also performed to characterize the materials and structures observed in the soil cores through X radiography and to verify the presence or absence of perchloroethylene.

X-ray radiography proved to be an invaluable tool in the examination of the soil structure and in the solution of the problem. Results showed the presence of a three-dimensional network of iron-lined fissures, concretions, and roots in otherwise low permeability clay. These conduits were responsible for the rapid permeation of the perchloroethylene.

Keywords:
permeability, X-ray radiography, impermeable clays, hazardous chemical, scanning electron microscopy, fissures, X-ray powder diffractometry

Paper ID: GTJ10686J
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ10686J
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