Presentation materials
Fractured aquifers impose challenges in predicting solute transport as the complex connectivity within discrete fracture networks, mass exchange between rock matrix and fractures and heterogeneous rock permeability should be considered. This research presents a holistic approach to characterize hydrogeologic features of fractured aquifers and to establish a predictive model for flow and...
Soil and aquifer contamination by pollutants, including non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), poses a severe threat to the environment and water resources. Conventional remediation methods often achieve limited recovery efficiencies, underscoring the need for innovative and scalable technologies [1 - 2]. Aqueous foam, a fascinating two-phase fluid...
Contamination of subsurface environments by light petroleum hydrocarbons is a significant environmental issue caused by the widespread use of such products. These hydrocarbons, characterized by their toxicity and low water solubility, pose serious risks to ecosystems and human health. Understanding the transport and fate of these pollutants in the subsurface is crucial for developing effective...
Groundwater is the most important source of drinking water in many regions of the world. Farm animal manure, and wastewater from leaking sewers and septic tanks may contaminate groundwater. Soil acts as a natural filter (1), and therefore groundwater can be protected from contamination with pathogens by adequate setback distances (protection zones) between contamination sources and the...
Microplastic (MP) contamination in aquatic environments continues to present a significant challenge for water treatment and environmental management. These tiny plastic particles, resulting from industrial activities and the breakdown of larger plastics, have been shown to accumulate in natural water systems, posing risks to ecosystems and human health. Understanding how microplastics...
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can enter the vadose zone through episodic infiltration of surface waters, which ubiquitously contain these compounds. Elevated PFAS concentrations in shallow soils are primarily attributed to their accumulation at air-water interfaces, a phenomenon mostly studied near historical point source releases. Atmospheric conditions and infiltrating surface...
As the incidence of PFAS-contaminated drinking water increases around the world, understanding of sources and pathways of PFAS in complex urban watersheds continues to develop. In the Orange County groundwater basin in Southern California, recent sampling of over 500 monitoring and production wells has revealed concentrations of a group of PFAS compounds that exceed federal health advisory...
