The potential of using electro-migration fences against seawater intrusion
Hamdan, S. (2019). The potential of using electro-migration fences against seawater intrusion. PhD Thesis. Eigen beheer: Leuven. 176 pp.
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Document type: Dissertation
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| Abstract |
The application of electrokinetic remediation as a novel alternative technique for controlling seawater intrusion into groundwater aquifers in coastal areas is demonstrated in this dissertation. The intention of this study was not to necessarily remove all chloride and/or sodium but to efficiently capture the Cl- and/or Na+ concentration of the water to the extent that the quality of the water meets the standards for potable and/or irrigation water, respectively. Electrokinetic processing of soil involves the application of a low-density direct current through a wet-soil mass, resulting in the development of electrical, hydraulic and chemical gradients. An electric field is created by inserting electrodes into the contaminated site and passing the current through it, thus making the contaminant particles mobile in the soil media. This technology can act as a barrier that prevents seawater from flowing inland, thereby protecting the groundwater pumping zone from seawater intrusion. Furthermore, it can be deployed as a means to capture the major seawater salts constituents such as sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions present in the fresh-brackish water interface. The captured Na+ and Cl- ions are removed regularly as they pass through the fence until their concentrations in groundwater are within the irrigation or potable water standards, respectively. Initial experiments were conducted using sodium chloride model solution, followed by experiments carried out using sea salts model solution. Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the fundamental electromigration behavior of soluble salts ions under the influence of an electrical gradient when coarse grained soil is used. The experiments were performed without applying any enhancement process. This was done in order to enable a better understanding of the actual physiochemical reaction occurring during electrokinetic remediation and to identify the most important contributing parameters in the removal mechanisms. |
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