ABSTRACT
A field test approach for subsurface iron removal, based on field investigations at a dairy farm in Saxony, Germany was carried out. The water supply there is based on two groundwater abstraction wells. The thickness of the sandy aquifer is 10 to 14 m. The groundwater has a mean concentration of 10 mg/l Fe(II), 0.5 mg/l Mn, 0.1 mg/l ammonium, and a mean pH of 6.5. By oxidation and adsorption in the subsurface reaction zone, it is possible to remove iron. At the field site, a tracer test to determine the dimensions of the reaction zone was conducted by measuring the electrical conductivity and dissolved oxygen concentration. Results of the tests are used to achieve an optimal operation of the wells and aeration units, especially in planning long-term subsurface treatment using aeration or technical oxygen.
