ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a synopsis of physicochemical properties and reactive mechanisms of Trichloroethylene (TCE), and discusses promising remediation technologies that have been proposed and/or demonstrated for restoring c-contaminated subsurface environmental media. Preliminary assessment of remediation technologies feasible for reclamation of subsurface environmental media contaminated with TCE must involve consideration of the compound’s physical and chemical propertie. Nonaqueous phase concentrations of TCE which are large enough to overcome capillary forces will move downward into the aquifer. Highly oxidized chemicals such as TCE have a high reduction potential and are thereby resistant to further oxidation. Natural dehalohydrolysis of TCE, with the subsequent production of an alcohol, is possible. Air stripping is an applicable technology for removal of TCE from contaminated water. A constant stream of air is used to drive TCE from solution, taking advantage of the low Henry’s law constant and water solubility. Soil venting is an in situ air stripping technique used to remove volatile contaminants from the vadose zone.
