In situ oxidation

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In situ oxidation is a technique used to clean up (remediate) environmental contamination below the ground surface. It is commonly called In-situ "chemical" oxidation (ISCO). Some contaminants, especially organic compounds, can be made less toxic through chemical oxidation. Strong chemical oxidants, such as sodium or potassium permanganate may be applied to a contaminated site to destroy harmful compounds. Other common oxidants used are persulfate, modified Fenton's Reagent, and ozone gas. The effectiveness of the oxidation is contingent primarily upon the geology, the residence time of the oxidant, and the amount of oxidant used. The most common organic chemicals targeted for remediation via ISCO are sites with chlorinated solvent (e.g. trichloroethene and tetrachloroethene)or gasoline-related compounds(e.g. benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, or xylene).

The primary delivery mechanism for ISCO is through perforated, hollow metal rods hammered with a mechanical hammer into the ground. The general term for this mode of delivery is "direct-push." Typically a truck mounted direct-push rig is used.

The oxidant is delivered as a water-based solution. Often the oxidant is injected into groundwater wells instead of direct-push rods. This enables multiple injections into the same location.