SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 2006
STP37689S

Overview of Natural Attenuation of Sediments

Source

Natural attenuation involves the use of the natural processes with the soil and groundwater to remediate contamination by physical, chemical, and biological processes to reduce the risk to human health and the environment. Although the use of natural attenuation as a treatment process is increasing for remediation of contaminated groundwater, much less research has focused on contaminated soils and sediments. Industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and sewage discharges are major sources of contaminants for the sediments. In addition, benthic organisms can transport contaminants through bioturbation and there is considerable variability at sites. Organic materials, a particularly important component of the sediments, can sequester the contaminants. Sediment-water partitioning controls the release of the contaminants into pore water and benthic organisms. Fate and transport mechanisms for both organic and inorganic contaminants within the sediments need to be understood to establish protocols for the monitoring and use of natural attenuation.

Author Information

Mulligan, CN
Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
Yong, RN
, North Saanich, B.C., Canada
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Details
Developed by Committee: D18
Pages: 210–222
DOI: 10.1520/STP37689S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5512-1
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-3408-9