Removal of Alkene and Alkane Compounds from a Chemical Industry Groundwater Using Fenton's Process - Bench and Pilot Scale Results

A major chemical manufacturer operates a treatment system for removal of alkene and alkane compounds from groundwater. The treatment system comprises of Powdered Activated Carbon followed by Granular Activated Carbon. The PACT process was unable to significantly reduce the concentration of certain volatile organic compounds such as cis-1,2-Dichloroethene. Since cis-1,2-DCE has a lower adsorbability than other compounds present it was the driver for GAC changeouts. Fenton's process was examined as a possible replacement to the current PACT system. Bench-top studies employing Fenton's reagent proved process feasibility and dosage rates. A pilot study using hydrogen peroxide and ferrous iron dosages of 89 ppm and 32 ppm, respectively, were able to remove cis-1,2-DCE to non-detect and reduce total VOC concentration by 89%. Neutralization, polymer consumption and sludge volume tests indicated that minimal additional caustic is needed to maintain required pH, the current polymer functions effectively and sludge production would decrease by 50% with Fenton's process.