Characterizing natural degradation of tetrachloroethene (PCE) using a multidisciplinary approach.

A site in mid-western Sweden contaminated with chlorinated solvents originating from a previous dry cleaning facility, was investigated using conventional groundwater analysis combined with compound-specific isotope data of carbon, microbial DNA analysis, and geoelectrical tomography techniques. We show the value of this multidisciplinary approach, as the different results supported each interpretation, and show where natural degradation occurs at the site. The zone where natural degradation occurred was identified in the transition between two geological units, where the change in hydraulic conductivity may have facilitated biofilm formation and microbial activity. This observation was confirmed by all methods and the examination of the impact of geological conditions on the biotransformation process was facilitated by the unique combination of the applied methods. There is thus significant benefit from deploying an extended array of methods for these investigations, with the potential to reduce costs involved in remediation of contaminated sediment and groundwater.

Investigation of chlorinated solvent pollution with resistivity and induced polarization.

Globally, an enormous number of polluted areas are in need of remediation to prevent adverse effects on health and environment. In situ remediation and especially the monitoring thereof needs further development to avoid costly and hazardous shipments associated with excavation. The monitoring of in situ remediation actions needs easier and cheaper nondestructive methods for evaluation and verification of remediation degree and degradation status of the contaminants. We investigate the Direct Current resistivity and time-domain Induced Polarization tomography (DCIP) method and its use within the context of a DNAPL (Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids) contaminated site in Varberg, Sweden, where an in situ remediation pilot test has been performed by stimulated reductive dechlorination by push injection. Our results show that the DCIP technique is an emerging and promising technique for mapping of underground structures and possibly biogeochemical spatial and temporal changes. The methodology could in combination with drilling, sampling and other complementary methods give an almost continuous image of the underground structures and delineation of the pollutant situation. It can be expected to have a future in monitoring approaches measuring time lapse induced polarization (IP), if more research is performed on the parameters and processes affecting the IP-signals verifying the interpretations. The IP technique can possibly be used for verification of the effectiveness of in situ remediation actions, as the current sampling methodology is inadequate.

A review of contamination of surface-, ground-, and drinking water in Sweden by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are found in aquatic systems, flora, and fauna worldwide. These potentially harmful compounds are also frequently detected in Sweden and have already resulted in severe problems for public drinking water supply, i.e., some wells had to be closed due to high PFAS concentrations both in raw water and produced drinking water. Knowledge on PFAS occurrence in Sweden is still quite low, although monitoring is currently ongoing. This work describes potential sources for PFASs to enter the drinking water supply in Sweden and compares different occurrences of PFASs in raw and drinking water in the country. Moreover, the monitoring history, the legal situation, and remediation actions taken are presented. Finally, future challenges and the way forward in Sweden are discussed.

On the scope and management of pesticide pollution of Swedish groundwater resources: The Scanian example.

Twenty-three south-Swedish public supply wells were studied to assess pesticide pollution of regional groundwater resources. Relations between pesticide occurrence, hydrogeology, and land use were analyzed using Kohonen's Self-Organizing Maps approach. Pesticides are demonstrated to be substantially present in regional groundwater, with detections in 18 wells. Concentrations above the drinking water threshold are confirmed for nine wells. Observations indicate considerable urban influence, and lagged effects of past, less restricted use. Modern, oxic waters from shallow, unconfined, unconsolidated or fracture-type bedrock aquifers appear particularly vulnerable. Least affected waters appear primarily associated with deeper wells, anoxic conditions, and more confined sediment aquifers lacking urban influence. Comprehensive, standardized monitoring of pesticides in groundwater need to be implemented nationwide to enable sound assessments of pollution status and trends, and to develop sound groundwater management plans in accordance with the Water Framework Directive. Further, existing water protection areas and associated regulations need to be reassessed.