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   AGMI > Services > Remediation > Phytoremediation
 

With a demonstrated track record, the ARCADIS Group has taken advantage of the natural absorption power of vegetation to draw contaminants from groundwater and intercept them as they leach from soil to the groundwater supply. Not only does phytoremediation offer a cost effective alternative but it is also very aesthetically pleasing and creates a natural habitat for wildlife.

 
Phytoremediation, or vegetative remediation, is an emerging technology that has proven to be effective in numerous full- and pilot-scale studies for in situ treatment of soil and groundwater.
The technology utilizes plant species to accumulate or break down organic and inorganic contaminants through natural biochemical processes. Many inorganic compounds that are environmental contaminants are vital plant nutrients used for growth and development by the vegetation. These nutrients are absorbed by the root system from the surrounding soil and groundwater media.
In phytoremediation, contaminants are treated by one or more of three general mechanisms:
  • bioremediation may occur in an environment conducive to biodegradation in the rhizosphere, or root zone.
  • contaminants may also be metabolized or transferred by the vegetation.
  • the contaminants may be bioaccumulated in the plant tissues. The application of phytoremediation incorporates tree or plant species to optimize conditions for contaminant breakdown.
A phytoremediation program generally uses trees capable of treating large volumes of contaminated groundwater and aquifer materials within the rhizosphere (root zone).
Plant tissues can bioaccumulate heavy metals and metabolize organic compounds. Moderately hydrophobic contaminants--which include benzene, toluene, ethylene, xylene (BTEX) compounds; chlorinated solvents; nitrotoluene ammunition wastes; and excess nutrients, such as nitrate, ammonium, and phosphate--are readily addressed by phytoremediation.
Phytoremediation is often used in conjunction with other remedial technologies. Advantages of using phytoremediation as an alternative remedial approach or as part of a life cycle remedial action include:
  • Provides a relatively low cost alternative;
  • Reduces potential for transfer of contaminants from existing medium to another because of minor disturbance to the site;
  • Creates an aerobic environment that enhances microbial activity, stimulates transformation processes, and rhizosphere degradation;
  • Controls migration of contaminant plume by influencing the hydraulics of the aquifer
  • Provides a "polishing" step to cleanup site after implementing "hot spot" removal measures
  • Creates cultivated vegetation which provides an aesthetically pleasing view;
  • Provides a "low profile" altemative, which is appropriate for sites in a highly populated area; and, creates a desirable habitat for wildlife.
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