GOALI: Engineered Sequestration and Bioavailability Reduction of Metals in Soils by Addition of Iron Oxides Recovered from Coal Mine Drainage Sites

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Abstract

0402966 Dzombak The proposed work would evaluate the efficacy and economic viability of a potential remediation technology for soils contaminated with heavy metals. This technology employs iron oxides recovered from abandoned coal - mining sites. The work would be carried out collaboratively with two industrial partners, each having expertise in iron oxide recovery and site remediation. The proposed remediation strategy is innovative and particularly appealing because it makes use of a substance produced during remediation/reclamation of other polluted sites (ie acid mine drainage sites). The study will address issues relating to iron oxide purity, metal immobilization capacity, and the extent to which immobilized metals are extractable using established methods. Engineering application issues will also be explored in the later stages of the project.