ISCO has had a long history of development and use. While research and
development still continue, ISCO is a relatively mature technology for the
remediation of contaminated groundwater, including source zones and plumes.
ISCO has primarily been applied for treatment of chlorinated organic solvents
and petroleum hydrocarbons to achieve remediation objectives ranging from
reducing contaminant mass in a source zone to achieving maximum contaminant
levels in a plume. To achieve the more stringent remediation objectives, ISCO is
almost always combined with another technology (e.g., bioremediation) or
approach (e.g., monitored natural attenuation).
The effectiveness of ISCO varies and is highly dependent on proper site characterization
and design of the oxidant delivery system to achieve oxidative destruction
of contaminants of concern in a target treatment zone.
Typically ISCO applications require a targeted second or third oxidant delivery
event since rebound in groundwater contaminant levels following cessation of
active ISCO is a common occurrence.
The median cost of an ISCO project appears to be on the order of $100 per cubic
yard treated. However, costs can vary widely depending on contaminant characteristics,
site conditions, and the oxidant used.
When considering ISCO at a contaminated site, there are a number of frequently
asked questions (Table 1.6) and key points to keep in mind to help support
successful application (Table 1.7).
R.L. Siegrist et al. (eds.), In Situ Chemical Oxidation for Groundwater Remediation,
doi: 10.1007/978-1-4419-7826-4_1, # Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2011
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