CLU-IN Technology Innovation News Survey

A STATISTICAL SUMMARY AND VISUALIZATION TOOL FOR 30 YEARS OF BACKGROUND SOIL AND SEDIMENT METALS DATA FROM NORTH CAROLINA SUPERFUND SITES [General News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:43:40 GMT

Ogwu, M.C., F.M. Nilsen, W.F. Hunneke, L. Norris, R.J. Kelley, P.P. Goodwin, M.A. Nichols, A.R. Van Venrooy, and J.T. Bateson.
Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management 22(1):260-268(2026)

Remediating CERCLA sites is limited to cleanup to levels no lower than background concentrations. However, anthropogenically induced and naturally occurring metal concentrations in soil and sediments often complicate this cleanup process. A statewide dataset of background heavy metal data from Superfund site investigations was compiled to support informed decisions on heavy metal cleanup and the development of soil heavy metal-related policies in North Carolina. The dataset represents background concentrations at 326 Superfund sites found in North Carolina from 1985 to 2015. This 30-year dataset comprises site location data and analytical measurement results for 18 heavy metals in 624 soil and 228 sediment samples, obtained using standard methods. The data are presented in an interactive dashboard, offering summary statistics and graphical representations that can be customized to support specific decision-making needs. The data and dashboard: (1) inform and support cleanup decisions and policy development regarding soil heavy metals, and (2) increase public awareness of the levels of naturally occurring and anthropogenic background heavy metals in soil and sediments across the state. The publicly accessible and interactive dashboard offers a deeper understanding of background environmental conditions in relation to evolving anthropogenic contamination within a broader context.

ADVANCES IN REMEDIATION: PFAS PRECURSORS—DARK MATTER MENACE OR NEGLIGIBLE NOTHINGBURGER? [General News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:43:25 GMT

Divine, C., T.L. Torralba-Sanchez, T. Blount, T. Guillette, B. Miatke, and J. Lang.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 46(1):10-20(2026)

PFAS precursors can act as a substantial long-term hidden source of regulated PFAAs, yet in many settings, strong sorption, limited mobility, analytical uncertainty, and slow transformation limit their practical impact on site management decisions. While dozens of terminal PFAAs can be measured, they represent only a fraction of the total PFAS mass potentially present. Many can act as precursors capable of converting into PFAAs. Whether hidden " dark matter" precursors are an important long-term driver of plume persistence, or mostly a chemically inert and immobile "nothingburger" locked up in soil pores, is an active debate. Scientific rationale and empirical laboratory and field observations for both perspectives are presented, followed by suggestions for practical considerations for investigation, data analysis, and visualization, conceptual site models, and site management strategies.

MAPPING RESEARCH ON MICROBIAL REMEDIATION OF METALS IN SOIL (2020-2025) [General News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:43:09 GMT

Usmonkulova, A., M. Pugliese, M. Julie, I. Khalilov, N. Kurbonova, N. Tillyaxodjayeva, R. Karimova, W. Liu, F. Khalilova, and O. Jabborova.
Microbiology Research 17(1):10(2026)

A systematic literature review using bibliometric analysis was conducted to examine the evolution and current trends of biological remediation studies. The bibliometric analysis was used for descriptive, intellectual, social, and conceptual network analyses, while systematic reviews were used to identify the application of biological remediation. A total of 4,835 papers were selected and extracted from Scopus between 2020 and 2025. The publication trends, most influential countries and articles, leading journals, collaboration networks, coupling networks, and application of biological remediation in various disciplines were described. This article highlights new research directions in current bioremediation trends: (1) understanding the interactions between petroleum hydrocarbons and heavy metals in composite pollution systems; (2) exploring microbial community succession during bioremediation; (3) utilizing biosurfactants to enhance contaminant solubilization and biodegradation; and (4) developing integrative, multi-mechanistic remediation approaches. This article is Open Access at https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7481/17/1/10.

THE HIDDEN COSTS OF PFAS REMEDIATION: ENERGY, WASTE, AND LONG-TERM VIABILITY [General News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:33:34 GMT

Laija, E., Bamer, J., and Molzahn, P. RemPlex Seminar, 2025

This seminar explores the environmental footprint of treating PFAS contamination. Presenters discuss the energy demands, waste generation, and broader environmental impacts of PFAS treatment technologies, offering insights into how these factors, alongside the regulatory context, should shape decision-making around remediation. Attendees gained insights into:

The energy demands and waste generation associated with current PFAS cleanup technologies.

Methodologies for calculating the environmental footprint of remediation strategies.

How treatment technology selection is influenced by both environmental impact and regulatory context.

Emerging perspectives on remedy sustainability and life cycle implications for PFAS remediation.

https://www.pnnl.gov/projects/remplex/seminars/hidden-costs-pfas-remediation?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Slides:https://www.pnnl.gov/sites/default/files/media/file/PDF%20-%20RemPlex-SURF_PFAS_Seminar_8-19-25.pdf

GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION PLUME STABILITY REVIEW OF ASSESSMENT METHODS [General News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:33:13 GMT

Contaminated Sites Approved Professional Society (CSAP) Report CA0038290.6960-001-R-Rev1, 55 p, 2024

This review document provides practitioners with a summary of various plume stability assessment techniques, considerations for conducting a plume stability assessment, and examples of plume stability applications. The intended audience for this document is the CSAP Society and contaminated sites practitioners. https://csapsociety.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024-12-03-Groundwater-Plume-Stability-Assessment-Methods-Final.pdf

Presentation on document: https://smartremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SMART-Vancouver_Calgary-2026-%E2%80%93-Joe-Ricker.pdf

MODELING PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCE PRECURSOR TRANSFORMATION IN GROUNDWATER AT A WELL-CHARACTERIZED SITE [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:32:50 GMT

Stockwell, E.B., D.T. Adamson, J.D. Gamlin, P.R. Kulkarni, A. Singh, R.W. Falta, and C.J. Newell. Journal of Contaminant Hydrology 276:104766(2026)

A semi-analytical groundwater model that considers matrix diffusion was calibrated to field PFAS data at a site that contained PFAAs and their respective precursor compounds. The modeling effort considered PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and PFBS. Individual precursor compounds were grouped according to their ability to transform into one of four key PFAAs. Model calibration that varied source characteristics, fate and transport parameters, and precursor transformation indicated that precursor transformation could be a critical process for three of the four PFAAs: 40 years after the initial source release ~59%, 84%, and 87% of the PFOA, PFHxS, and PFBS plume maximum concentrations, respectively, originated from precursor transformation. In addition, precursor transformation led to PFOA, PFHxS, and PFBS plumes that were up to 17% longer than if precursor transformation did not occur. In contrast, PFOS was not substantially affected by precursor transformation due to high PFOS concentrations in the source zone compared to its precursors. Additional modeling of complete PFAS source removal indicated that the effects of matrix diffusion, coupled with no natural degradation of certain PFAAs, may result in PFAS plumes at this site that persist and are sustained by precursor transformation. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169772225002712/pdfft?md5=5c4d7ae57b8e251e75e9386e5528d7f2&pid=1-s2.0-S0169772225002712-main.pdf

EVALUATION OF 1,4-DIOXANE NATURAL ATTENUATION AFTER IN SITU PROPANE BIOSPARGING: BENCH-SCALE MICROCOSM TESTS AND FIELD METADATA ANALYSIS [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:32:24 GMT

Antunes, J.M.D., D.K.D. Gaudel, C.H. Bell, Z. Wahl, M. Schnobrich, and M. Li.
Remediation 36(2):e70060(2026)

Bench-scale microcosms were conducted with groundwater collected from seven monitoring wells located along the 1,4-dioxane plumes at two sites where propane biosparging (and bioaugmentation) were previously employed. Over four weeks of incubation, significant 1,4-dioxane removal was observed in microcosms prepared with groundwater samples from four locations within the proximity of historical treatment zones. First-order attenuation rates ranged from 0.02 to 1.11/day, corresponding to half-lives between 0.6 and 32.0 days. Concurrently, a meta study was conducted by compiling groundwater data from >?900 monitoring wells across the U.S. Estimated bulk 1,4-dioxane degradation/attenuation half-lives ranged from 109 to 6,405 days (R²?>?0.5). The majority (96%) of the estimated half-lives were < 3,000 days, with the shorter half-lives (i.e., faster rates) generally observed at higher 1,4-dioxane concentrations (i.e., >?20?µg/L). Propane biosparging exhibited significantly shorter half-lives (i.e., a median half-life of 445 days) than MNA and P&T technologies. In addition, 1,4-dioxane half-lives after the start of propane biosparging treatment were an order-of-magnitude shorter than those before treatment, which may also explain the additional orders-of-magnitude decreases in half-lives in MNA-mimicking microcosms. Together, these findings indicate that propane biosparging not only accelerates immediate 1,4 dioxane removal but also "primes" microbial communities for enhanced long term attenuation.

NOVEL REMEDIATION STRATEGIES FOR CR(VI)-CONTAMINATED GROUNDWATER AT LOW TEMPERATURE: STUDY ON THE EFFECTS OF COMBINING ASCORBIC ACID REDUCTION WITH BIOSTIMULATION [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:32:10 GMT

Yang, X., L. Hou, X. Yuan, H. Guo, and F. Ma.
Journal of Environmental Management 403:129156(2026)

Ascorbic acid (AA) combined with molasses was used to remediate Cr(VI) in experiments at 8°C to accelerate the initiation of bioreduction and broaden the applicable range of biostimulation. Results demonstrated that the Cr(VI) reduction efficiency was significantly inhibited by both dissolved oxygen and aquifer media when treated with AA. However, excess addition of AA (n[AA]): n(Cr[VI]) = 2:1) could eliminate the inhibitory effect of non-target reactions. Compared to the molasses-only control, the average removal rates of Cr(VI) in the systems with the additional 38, 86, and 170 mg/L of AA were increased by 0.87, 1.07, and 2.24 mg/(L·d). AA rapidly reduced Cr(VI) within 6 h, and the subsequent bioavailable molasses had the greatest Cr(VI) removal rate [2.47 mg/(L·d)] when the Cr(VI) concentration was decreased to near 40 mg/L. Higher AA additions under combined treatment increased the relative abundance of Bacillus from 26% to 46% and 50%, respectively. In addition, the expression of genes related to Cr(VI) detoxification was upregulated by AA combined with molasses remediation. The expression of ChrA in AA-molasses-amended systems was 1.52 times (38 mg/L AA) and 1.68 times (86 mg/L AA) that of molasses-amended system, respectively. The relative expression of SOD1 in AA-molasses-amended groups was 1.56 (38 mg/L AA) and 1.84 times (86 mg/L AA) that of the molasses-amended system.

TOWARD CLOSED-LOOP REMEDIATION: A DYNAMIC OPTIMIZATION APPROACH FOR HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY ESTIMATION AND PUMP-AND-TREAT DESIGN [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:29:01 GMT

Wei, J., S. Jiang, Q. Liu, X. Zhang, N. Zheng, and J. Xing.
Journal of Contaminant Hydrology 277:104852(2026)

A study proposed a dynamic iterative optimization framework that integrates parameter inversion with remediation plan design into a closed-loop system of simulation-observation-update-optimization. The framework iteratively updates the K-field using pilot point parameterization and simulation-optimization techniques while dynamically adjusting the remediation strategy based on real-time monitoring data. Numerical experiments conducted on a virtual contaminated site demonstrated that the proposed framework significantly improves the accuracy of K-field characterization, as evidenced by decreasing logarithmic root mean square error and increasing spatial correlation coefficient over iterations. When compared with a conventional static remediation plan that is designed once and executed without updates, the dynamic framework achieves a substantially higher contaminant removal rate while simultaneously reducing the total pumping volume. Results highlight the framework's potential to enhance remediation effectiveness and reduce operational costs in heterogeneous aquifers, offering a practical and adaptive solution for complex contaminated site management.

PFAS FATE USING LYSIMETERS DURING DEGRADED SOIL RECLAMATION USING BIOSOLIDS [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:28:45 GMT

Peter, L., M. Modiri-Gharehveran, O. Alvarez-Campos, G.K. Evanylo, and L.S. Lee.
Journal of Environmental Quality 54(1):41-53(2025)

A study investigated PFAS persistence and leaching from biosolids applied to an artificially constructed site to mimic degraded soils. Biosolids and biosolids blended with mulch were applied at different rates to attain either one and five times the agronomic N rate for vegetable crops, and a control treatment with synthetic urea and triple superphosphate fertilizer. Leachates were collected for 2 years from 15-cm depth zero-tension drainage lysimeters. Soils were analyzed post-biosolids application. PFAS were quantified using isotope-dilution, solid-phase extraction, and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Leachate profiles exemplified an initial high total PFAS concentration, followed by a sharp decline and subsequent small fluctuations attributed to pre-existing soil conditions and rainfall patterns. Quantifiable PFAS in leachate were proportional to biosolids application rates. Short-chain PFAAs (CF₂ < 6) were dominant in leachate, while the percentage of longer-chain homologues was higher in soils. A 43% biosolids blend with mulch resulted in 21% lower PFAS leachate concentrations, even with the blend application rate being 1.5 times higher than biosolids due to the blend's lower N-content. The blending effect was more pronounced for long-chain perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids that have a greater retention by soils and the air-water interface. https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/jeq2.20576

BENCH MORE, SWEAT LESS: CASE STUDIES USING BENCH-SCALE TESTING TO EXPOSE HIDDEN ISSUES, REFINE REMEDIAL OPTIONS, AND IMPROVE BUDGETING. [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:28:21 GMT

Reichheld, S. | SMART Remediation, 20 January, Vancouver, Canada, 16 slides, 2026

Practical case studies are highlighted where targeted bench-scale testing using site soil and groundwater samples strengthened remedial decisions and improved field outcomes. The case studies show how bench results clarified viable treatment options, narrowed design ranges, and supported more defensible remedial timelines and cost estimates.
https://smartremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SMART-Vancouver-2026-%E2%80%93-Steve-Reichheld.pdf

RESEARCH BRIEF 370: IMPROVING CHEMICAL CLEANUP OF CONTAMINATED GROUNDWATER [Research]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:28:06 GMT

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Superfund Research Program (SRP), February 2026

Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley Superfund Research Program (SRP) Center uncovered how underground conditions influence the success of chemical oxidation-based groundwater cleanup. By considering how contaminants interact with underground particles, the study provides guidance that could help tailor cleanup approaches to site-specific conditions, improving remediation outcomes. https://tools.niehs.nih.gov/srp/researchbriefs/view.cfm?Brief_ID=370

FIELD APPLICATION OF BIOELECTROCHEMICAL REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY FOR TREATING HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM IN GROUNDWATER [Demonstrations]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:27:47 GMT

Li, Y., D. Kong, K. Jin, X. Dong, Q. Zhang, and L. Chen.
Journal of Contaminant Hydrology 276:104744(2026)

A commercialized bioelectrochemical reduction (BECR) technology (E-Redox®-R) was applied at a Cr(VI)-contaminated site in Henan Province, China, to remediate chromium-contaminated groundwater in a pilot study. The BECR pilot system consisted of four units, comprising 12 electrodes installed across a 38.5-m transect. For each unit, one anode well and two cathode wells were arranged in an isosceles triangle configuration, with an inter-electrode spacing of 5.5 m. Within 10 months of system operation, groundwater Cr(VI) concentrations in the cathode wells, ranging from 0.3 mg/L to 46.5 mg/L, decreased by 24% to 99% despite potential masking effects by the desorption of chromium mass from the soil matrix into the aqueous phase. Within the treatment zone, Cr(VI) concentrations in the two upgradient monitoring wells located near the anode electrodes decreased by 21% and 42%, respectively, while concentrations in the three downgradient monitoring-compliance wells near the cathode electrodes decreased by 65% to 96%. Results indicate that the BECR technology can effectively reduce Cr(VI) in the subsurface and holds promise as a sustainable in situ technology for remediating chromium and other contaminants in impacted groundwater.

PILOT-SCALE PERFORMANCE OF A UV-REGENERABLE IRON-BASED ACTIVATED CARBON SYSTEM FOR PHARMACEUTICAL AND PFAS REMOVAL [Demonstrations]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:27:26 GMT

Beak, S., E. Kim, T. Jung, J. Lee, and J. Bae.
Journal of Water Process Engineering 82:109468(2026)

A 200 m³/day pilot was constructed and continuously operated at a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Daegu, South Korea, that coupled iron-impregnated powdered activated carbon (Fe-PAC) with ultraviolet (UV)/ H_?O_? photo-regeneration to restore adsorption in situ. Bench tests verified Fe-site-enabled photo-Fenton reactions. Robustness was pilot-assessed under actual, variable influent fluctuations. Without regeneration, short-chain PFAS (PFHxA and PFHpA) showed limited, unstable removal; long-chain PFNA and PFOA decreased over time owing to site saturation. Most pharmaceuticals (diclofenac and florfenicol) sustained ≥90% removal; hydrophilic caffeine decreased transiently but recovered after regeneration, whereas atenolol exhibited lower long-term stability. With periodic UV/H_?O_? treatment, PFAS removal exceeded 95% after three months; aggregate removal reached 97.7 and 99.1% at three and five months, respectively, without deterioration of water-quality indicators. Fe-PAC acted as a dual adsorbent-catalyst: pores captured contaminants, and Fe sites generated radicals that decomposed surface residues and reopened adsorption sites, providing pilot-scale evidence that the UV-regenerable Fe-PAC hybrid can overcome adsorption limitations and deliver robust control of persistent micropollutants. Optimizing the regeneration frequency and intensity and performing techno-economic evaluations to support full-scale deployment are recommended. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214714426000267/pdfft?md5=4af1b93cb0f7b21df11014da5b0f8b5a&pid=1-s2.0-S2214714426000267-main.pdf

SIMULATOR -TRAINED AI FOR CREATING SUBSURFACE DIGITAL TWINS USING TIME -LAPSE ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY TOMOGRAPHY DATA [Demonstrations]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:27:14 GMT

Johnson, T.C. | Pacific Northwest National Laboratory RemPlex seminar, 4-6 November, Richland, WA, 21 minutes, 2025

Presenters describe how the hydrogeologic information content implicit in time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data can be extracted and assessed using generative artificial intelligence (AI). The trained AI model generates ensembles of subsurface models that honor field observations, thereby providing a mechanism for assessing uncertainty. The approach was demonstrated at the Hanford 100K-Area in situ soil flushing test, where ERT was used to monitor vadose zone hexavalent chromium remediation through in situ soil flushing.

See times 1 minute-23 minute: https://www.pnnl.gov/projects/remplex/2025-summit/technical-sessions/artificial-intelligence

Slides:https://www.pnnl.gov/sites/default/files/media/file/2025%20RemPlex%20-%20Technical%20Session%208%20-%20Tim%20C.%20Johnson%20-%20Simulator-Trained%20AI.pdf

PFAS VADOSE ZONE MASS DISCHARGE AT AN AFFF-IMPACTED SITE: 1. VALIDATION BASED ON A MULTIPLE LINES-OF-EVIDENCE APPROACH [Demonstrations]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:25:51 GMT

Carey, G.R., D.T. Adamson, R.K. Krebs, M. Rebeiro-Tunstall, K.G. Mumford, B. Guo, G.T. Carey, K. Rooney, and S. Moga. | Remediation 36(2):e70058(2026)

Multiple lines of evidence were evaluated to determine if porewater samples collected during a data gap investigation in the former fire training area (FFTA) at Ellsworth Air Force Base were reproducible and representative. Lines of evidence included supplemental geologic and hydrogeologic data, which showed the presence of a semi-continuous silt/clay layer directly above the water table throughout much of the FFTA, and gravimetric moisture content results that demonstrated vertical water flow at a depth of 15?ft is substantially limited due to semi-arid climatic conditions. Radial diagrams visually demonstrated that there was negligible variability in porewater concentrations caused by varying sample yields in the deep zone. Additional lysimeters installed in the FFTA during the investigation did not result in a significant difference in the estimated vertical mass discharge, which showed that the number of lysimeter sampling points in this area is sufficient. Strong attenuation in PFAS soil concentrations with depth validates the order(s) of magnitude reduction between shallow and deep porewater concentrations observed near the former burn pit. Vadose zone PFAS mass discharge was shown to be 4%-19% of groundwater mass discharge below the water table for regulated constituents. Recommendations for field data collection and estimation of PFAS mass discharge in the vadose zone are presented. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/rem.70058

GOING WITH THE FLOW (AND A LITTLE REAGENT): AUGMENTING NATURAL ATTENUATION TO TACKLE A CVOC PLUME [Cleanup News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:25:33 GMT

Hachborn, E. and B. Loney. | SMART Remediation, 20 January, Vancouver, Canada, 12 slides, 2026

The challenges and outcomes of a complex, multi-year in situ biochemical remediation program designed to address a cVOC groundwater plume at a site in Eastern Ontario are described. The plume originated from a former landfill and had been managed by a P&T system. Following a remedial options analysis and a successful pilot test, the in situ approach was selected as a more targeted method for cVOC mass reduction in the upgradient source area, in addition to phytoremediation downgradient of the plume. A primary challenge was adapting the program to the site's physical constraints and geological conditions. The complex terrain, combined with a necessary 15-meter buffer from an adjacent pond, required a dynamic injection design with variable point spacing and treatment depths to effectively target the main cVOC mass, which was concentrated 1.5 to 2.5 meters above the clay layer. The initial full-scale injection was conducted in early 2020, followed by a second event in late 2023 to maintain performance. The second program was hampered by weather. Low temperatures caused operational delays, affecting equipment like pumps and drill batteries. Site topography and access concerns necessitated the removal of several planned injection points from the program, requiring the redistribution of the remedial reagent to adjacent locations to maintain the target dosage. Despite these challenges, the program achieved its mass reduction objectives. Post-injection monitoring confirmed that the biochemical treatment stimulated the desired degradation of the parent cVOCs, successfully managing the plume so that no further injections are required at this time. It is planned to transition the site to a combined management strategy of monitored natural attenuation along with a recently implemented phytoremediation program to address the residual plume. https://smartremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SMART-Ottawa-2026-%E2%80%93-Hachborn_Loney.pdf

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS AND IMPLEMENTATION TECHNIQUES FOR IN SITU PFAS SEQUESTRATION USING MODIFIED CLAY [Cleanup News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:25:14 GMT

Mazzarese, M. | SMART Remediation, 20 January, Vancouver, Canada, 11 slides, 2026

Recent pilot programs have demonstrated that FluoroSorb®, an organically modified bentonite clay (MC), can be injected into overburden to effectively sequester PFAS, offering higher sorption capacity and stability within the subsurface. Independent testing showed that MC exhibited strong sorption kinetics and capacity across a wide PFAS concentration range, with compatibility alongside other remedial amendments. Bench-scale evaluations compared performance against ion exchange resin, granular activated carbon, and biochar, and also assessed competitive sorption in the presence of chlorinated VOCs and petroleum hydrocarbons. Relevant kinetics and co-contaminant performance data are presented. Field deployments in the U.S. and Canada verified injectability and distribution of MC for source-area treatment and PFAS plume interception using direct-push injection. Multiple slurry densities were evaluated to match amendment mass to PFAS loading, including co-injection with calcium polysulfide for simultaneous PFAS and hexavalent chromium treatment. A Canadian PRB installation was monitored for more than a year under continued upgradient PFAS loading, with groundwater results and dye-assisted soil coring confirming amendment distribution, sequestration performance, and durability in situ. https://smartremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SMART-Vancouver_Calgary_Toronto_Ottawa-2026-%E2%80%93-Mike-Mazzarese.pdf

OPTIMIZATION TOOLS AND STRATEGIES IMPLEMENTED AT SITES WITH LONG-TERM REMEDIATION SYSTEMS [Cleanup News]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:24:48 GMT

Perlmutter, M. NAVFAC Remediation Innovative Technology Seminar, 116 slides, 2025

This presentation highlights multiple Navy case studies that demonstrate how structured optimization reviews can significantly improve the performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency of long-term remediation systems. Across sites with decades-old remedies, the case studies show that periodic technical evaluation often identifies opportunities to reduce system footprint, modify operating parameters, or transition to alternative remedies while maintaining protectiveness. In several groundwater P&T examples, optimization reviews determined that contaminant mass removal rates had asymptotically declined after years of operation. Through data trend analysis, capture zone evaluation, and influent concentration review, flow rates were reduced, extraction wells were consolidated, and treatment trains were simplified without compromising hydraulic containment. The adjustments reduced energy demand and annual O&M costs while maintaining compliance with cleanup objectives. In some cases, targeted pulsed operation or seasonal pumping strategies were implemented to address rebound concerns more efficiently. Additional case studies involving SVE systems demonstrated diminishing vapor concentrations over time, indicating that systems had reached mass-transfer limitations. Optimization efforts included shutting down low-yield wells, modifying vacuum distribution, and conducting rebound testing to confirm whether active extraction could be terminated. Where appropriate, systems were transitioned to monitored natural attenuation, supported by updated conceptual site models and long-term monitoring plans. The case studies demonstrate that optimization is not a one-time event but an ongoing adaptive management process. By applying data-driven evaluations, refining system operations, and aligning remedies with current site conditions, measurable reductions in operating costs, improved system efficiency, and accelerated progress toward remedial endpoints without sacrificing protectiveness were achieved. https://exwc.navfac.navy.mil/Portals/88/Documents/EXWC/Restoration/er_pdfs/rits/2025/RITS%202025_Optimization_Final.pdf?ver=e6e3gUtUfa83p1xeQTDZ_A%3d%3d

EPA WERRC RFP (COMBINE) [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:19:26 GMT

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 Contracting Office, San Francisco, CA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.go 68HE0926R0002, 2026

This is a full and open competition under NAICS code 541620. EPA Region 9 seeks a contractor to support its Water Emergency Response Resources Contract (WERRC). The purpose of the WERRC is to provide services to EPA and other officials supporting the implementation of EPA's responsibilities under the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act. Response activities will support EPA's obligations under the SDWA, CWA, the Stafford Act, as well as any future laws or regulations that establish or expand EPA's response obligations. Work will include Project Planning; General Water Sector Disaster Mitigation; Drinking Water System Response Activities; Wastewater System Response Activities; Analytical Services; Demolition, Restoration, and Soil Stabilization; Provision of Support Facilities to support Water Response/Recovery; Limited Marine/Water Operations; Training; and Logistical Services. The contractor shall support EPA in fulfilling these responsibilities within the region(s) assigned via contract, as well as outside the region on a backup regional response, cross-regional response, and national response. The awarded contract will include a one-year Base Period with four one-Year Option Periods. Questions are due by 5:00 PM on April 1, 2026. Proposals are due by 8:00 PM EDT on April 30, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/92bbc8994cc9430e8d52f69c18c97d6f/view

EV35, NEWPORT, SITE 17, LTM, NORTH RAOMAC (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:15:39 GMT

U.S. Department of the Navy, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Mid-Atlantic Command, Norfolk, VA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.go N4008526R0113, 2026

This is a full and open competition under NAICS code 562910. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Mid-Atlantic Command, requires a contractor to perform long-term monitoring and monitored natural attenuation of groundwater at Site 17-NAVSTA Newport in Newport, Rhode Island. The LTM groundwater monitoring well network includes 21 monitoring wells; all wells are sampled biannually. Groundwater monitoring wells selected for sampling are intended to provide sufficient geographic coverage for evaluating MNA parameters and confirming COC concentrations in groundwater. All samples are analyzed for the following: select VOCs - Benzene, PCE, 1,2-DCE, TCE, VC; select metals- arsenic, cadmium, lead, and manganese; PAHs, plus pentachlorophenol PCBs; anions (chloride, N-nitrate, sulfate); and alkalinity. The duration of work under this Contract Task Order shall not exceed 12 months from the award date for the base option and 60 months from award, including option years. Offers are due by 2:00 PM EDT on April 7, 2026. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/f55fc89f54de47ea9f8e2438c9711e5c/view

SYNOPSIS OF SOLICITATION; FA890326R0019; OPTIMIZED REMEDIATION CONTRACT AT FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, WASHINGTON (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:15:21 GMT

U.S. Department of the Air Force, Air Force Materiel Command, AF Installation and Missions Support Center, JBSA Lackland, TX
Contract Opportunities on SAM.go FA890326R0019, 2026

When this solicitation is released, it will be competed as an 8(a) set-aside under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Department of the Air Force plans to issue a solicitation for environmental remediation activities under an Optimized Remediation Contract at Fairchild Air Force Base. The ORC initiative intends to advance site cleanup during the Period of Performance in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, as supported by a cost-benefit analysis and exit strategy that achieves the greatest reduction in life-cycle cost. The Air Force is interested in a substantial reduction of long-term environmental liabilities and total LCC. These sites have complex attributes that have, to date, inhibited progress toward the achievement of RC. Work will include plan development; Preliminary Assessment/Site Inspection; Remedial Investigation or Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study, including supplemental investigations; preparation of Decision Documents; and Remedial Action-Operation or Long-Term Management. There is no solicitation at this time. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/8e17e583381f4a94bd2019faff448f42/view

CERCLA REMOVAL ACTION AT MOJAVE NP (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:14:49 GMT

U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Washington Contracting Office, Lakewood, CO
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov 140P2126Q0049, 2026

When this solicitation is released on or about March 27, 2026, it will be competed as an indian small business economic enterprise (ISBEE) set-aside under NAICS code 562910. The National Park Service plans to issue a solicitation for a Non-Time Critical Removal Action (NTCRA) under CERCLA at the 5-acre Hidden Hill Mine contaminated site within Mojave National Preserve in Southern California. The work includes removing ~69 yd³ of commingled tailings and potentially affected underlying material, based on an assumed thickness of ~1 ft across an area of ~1,850 ft². To account for additional underlying material and soils that may become commingled during excavation activities, a conservative estimate of ~100 yd³ of material will be removed during this Removal Action (RA). Using a conversion factor of 1.5 tons/ yd³, NPS estimates that ~150 tons of material will be excavated, transported, and disposed of as part of the RA. The work also includes preparation of post-award plans, characterizing the material, transporting it to appropriate disposal facility/ies, collecting and analyzing confirmation samples, and preparing a Response Action Completion Report. The estimated removal quantities are based on previous site investigations. The firm-fixed-price contract will use a combination of lump-sum and unit-priced items, subject to the variation in quantity clause in conjunction with an established ceiling and notification requirements. A payment bond (100%), performance bond (100%), and liability insurance will be required prior to contract performance. A group site visit is scheduled at 10:00 AM on April 9, 2026. Pertinent details will be provided in Section L of the solicitation when it is posted. Attendance at the site visit is strongly encouraged. Requests for individual site visits will not be honored. There is no solicitation at this time. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/423d2b5dab3f40f6b4ce36df85e5bdd0/view

ALTEMIS: NEXT-GENERATION IN SITU REAL-TIME GROUNDWATER MONITORING STRATEGIES [General News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:08:03 GMT

Wainwright, H. | Pacific Northwest National Laboratory RemPlex seminar, 4-6 November, Richland, WA, 21 minutes, 2025

The Advanced Long-Term Monitoring Systems (ALTEMIS) project is developing an innovative paradigm of long-term monitoring based on state-of-the-art technologies, such as in situ groundwater sensors, geophysics, drone/satellite-based remote sensing, reactive transport modeling, and AI, that will improve effectiveness and robustness, while reducing the overall cost. As a part of this project, an in situ real-time groundwater long-term monitoring framework was developed based on various sensors and data analytics methods. Rather than relying on one single metric, this approach provides multiple lines of evidence to ensure the system stability: (1) groundwater table and its gradient that governs the migration speed and direction of the contaminant plume, and (2) in situ measurable geochemical parameters for detecting changes in contaminant mobility. In addition, machine learning algorithms were developed to improve the spatiotemporal interpolation of groundwater tables and contaminant concentrations by exploiting proxy variables such as in situ sensors and geospatial layers, and detect anomalies by computing the difference between near-future forecasting and measurements. To accommodate noisy and drifting sensor data streams, algorithms were also developed for automated outlier removal and drift correction. The framework was demonstrated based on the plot-scale installation at the Savannah River Site F-Area.

See times 1:01-1:20: https://www.pnnl.gov/projects/remplex/2025-summit/technical-sessions/artificial-intelligence

Slides: https://www.pnnl.gov/sites/default/files/media/file/2025%20RemPlex%20-%20Technical%20Session%208%20-%20Haruko%20Wainwright%20-%20ALTEMIS.pdf

CURRENT KNOWLEDGE ABOUT PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) IN THE ATMOSPHERE: FATE, ANALYTICAL METHODS AND RESEARCH PRIORITIES [General News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:07:32 GMT

Vieira, H.G., M.C. Canela, R.C. Urban, and B.S. Cabrero. | Chemosphere 389:144703(2025)

This article comprehensively overviews the current knowledge on PFAS, including a compilation of information on emission sources- primary sources and secondary sources; proposed classifications of their volatility based on vapor pressure by EPA and the European Chemicals Agency; atmospheric processes that govern gas-particle partitioning, long-range transport, and deposition; an assessment of current and emerging sampling and analytical techniques, including OTM 45/50 methods; and the identification of priority knowledge gaps. Among the main existing gaps, the validation of improved monitoring strategies and inhalation toxicity studies for neutral precursors could significantly contribute to a robust risk assessment and support regulatory efforts within the evolving global agenda for the phase-out of PFAS.

PFAS DESTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS [General News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:07:08 GMT

Pinkard, B. and J. Follin | SERDP & ESTCP Webinar Series, January 2026

This webinar highlighted two PFAS destruction technologies, hydrothermal alkaline treatment (HALT) and supercritical water oxidation (SCWO). Hydrothermal alkaline treatment (HALT) leverages high pH conditions to destroy PFAS in liquid feedstocks. The project demonstrated HALT for the centralized disposal of several PFAS-rich liquid wastes produced during DoD site remediation efforts. PFAS destruction performance was measured and assessed for a range of operating conditions, leveraging many different analytical techniques to track the fate of fluorine and the extent of PFAS destruction. A legacy AFFF blend was processed onsite with HALT. This presentation describes the fundamentals of HALT, shares insights from the demonstration, and discusses best practices for integration within an effective treatment train for facilitating complete PFAS capture and destruction. SCWO is an innovative technology that has been previously demonstrated for the destruction of energetics and other organic wastes. The presentation focuses on recent tests that have been performed using this technology for PFAS destruction at a Clean Earth facility in Charlotte, NC, and at General Atomics' test facility in San Diego, CA. At the Charlotte facility, a mobile system was used to process and destroy three PFAS-laden waste streams and an AFFF concentrate. In San Diego, spent granulated activated carbon and ion-exchange resin beads were tested using a commercial SCWO system. The presentation summarizes the procedures, PFAS test results, and stack gas testing.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjeXJxzaXqU&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fserdp-estcp.mil%2F&source_ve_path=OTY3MTQ

Slides: https://sepub-prod-0001-124733793621-us-gov-west-1.s3.us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2026-01/SERDP%20ESTCP%20Webinar%20%23224%20%28ER%2001272026%29%20-%20Combined%20Slides%20V5%20%20-%20%20Read-Only.pdf?VersionId=6PhPI.JJNTiprNtXg520hgPu5Gmqyeho

IN SITU VERIFICATION AND QUANTIFICATION OF NATURALLY OCCURRINGDECHLORINATION RATES IN CLAYS: DEMONSTRATING PROCESSES THAT MITIGATE BACK-DIFFUSION AND PLUME PERSISTENCE FINAL REPORT [General News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:06:50 GMT

Schaefer, C., Z. Nguyen, D, Tran, C. Werth, T. Blount, S. Dai, and G. Kumar. ESTCP Project ER20-5031, 87 pp, 2025

This work aimed to demonstrate and validate an innovative approach for assessing and quantifying naturally occurring abiotic and biotic dechlorination reactions in low-permeability clays. Such an approach would guide RPMs and regulators in assessing naturally occurring abiotic dechlorination at DoD sites. The project employed multiple methods and techniques that have been demonstrated in previous laboratory and field projects to attain insight into a cost-effective and easily implementable in situ methodology that can be used to assess the extent to which naturally occurring abiotic and biotic dechlorination processes are occurring within clays (via a first-order rate constant). This in situ approach was utilized at eight sites. Using 1% (v/v) HCl extractions and X-ray diffraction for mineral composition provided information to estimate TCE abiotic reductive dechlorination in clays. However, the model could not be independently used to verify the lab-derived rate constants. For reductive abiotic dechlorination under anoxic conditions, results suggest that 1% HCl extraction coupled with XRD data can be used as a screening-level tool to verify and estimate reductive dechlorination rate constants.

Final Report: https://sepub-prod-0001-124733793621-us-gov-west-1.s3.us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2025-12/ER20-5031%20Final%20Report.pdf?VersionId=995rxTGNSMLWh8d4kNeKem7qXzRLolwE

Guidance: https://sepub-prod-0001-124733793621-us-gov-west-1.s3.us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2025-11/ER20-5031%20Guidance%20Document.pdf?VersionId=1s90wlFyECN0Z8FnYt3yLD9NlJjeBlKv

QUANTITATIVE SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT OF IN SITU THERMALLY ENHANCED BIOREMEDIATION FOR CARBON EFFICIENT GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:06:30 GMT

Yang, Z., Q. Wang, C. Wei, Z. Zhang, Z. Tang, Y. Li, G. Luo, F. Coulon, L. Fan, and X. Song.
Sustainable Production and Consumption 63:19-33(2025)

In situ thermally enhanced bioremediation (ISTEB) is a promising approach for remediating contaminated soil and groundwater. However, comprehensive quantitative sustainability assessments of its sustainability are limited, especially for field-scale applications using hot water injection (TEB-HW) or thermal conductive heating (TEB-TCH). A study addressed the gap by developing a quantitative sustainability framework integrating life cycle assessment with best management practices (BMPs), comprising 108 indicators derived from an extensive literature review and policy analysis. Using full-scale operational data from ISTEB implementations, the environmental, economic, and social performance of TEB-HW and TEB-TCH were quantified relative to conventional thermal treatment (TCH). Compared with TCH only, TEB-HW and TEB-TCH reduced carbon emissions by 78% and 31%, and achieved cost savings of 72% and 38%, while also improving community engagement and satisfaction. Normalized multi-criteria sustainability scores indicate overall performance gains of 31% and 13% compared to TCH only. Further optimization of BMPs, such as electric vehicle transport, green injectates, and renewable energy integration, could enhance ISTEB sustainability by up to 45%.

ADVANCED CARBON NANOMATERIAL-BASED ELECTROCHEMICAL PLATFORMS FOR REAL-TIME DETECTION AND REMEDIATION OF EMERGING ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:06:15 GMT

George, C., M.S. Christo, S. Jha, M. Harshitha, J.C. Vidyashree, M. Dinamani, and H.K. Ramaraju. Microchemical Journal 221:116936(2026)

Carbon allotropes were synthesized and functionalized to enhance key electrochemical properties like surface area, electrical conductivity, and the kinetics of electron transport to identify and remove emerging contaminants. The nanostructures were integrated into sensor electrodes using field-effect transistor and chemiresistor-type configurations. The devices established exceptional sensitivity and selectivity, achieving detection limits in the nanomolar spectrum for a range of pollutants, including pesticides and heavy metals. Surface modification with bio-recognition elements such as aptamers and enzymes enabled selective binding and efficient signal transduction. The electrochemically active carbon surfaces facilitated adsorption and electrocatalytic degradation processes, permitting the same platform to perform detection and treatment. To facilitate simultaneous contamination identification and onsite environmental cleanup, electroactive carbon surfaces absorb contaminants and accelerate their destruction. Advanced characterization methods, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy, were used to assess the sensor's shape, chemical bonding properties, and performance. In situ remediation with real-time monitoring offers a portable, cost-effective, and sustainable approach to environmental protection. Results establish the potential of multifunctional carbon nanomaterial-based electrochemical systems to address critical challenges in environmental sensing and contaminant remediation. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0026265X26001360/pdfft?casa_token=H4lnapaoFkIAAAAA:oWn9Aa1CWtAhHvd8h5LJneAB4LCRVmp2cjpXqt4UaRYtgrcDiFqgk2QkuSo3OkjKX6JcnG22Hg&md5=2834c97d1a021d5034a46c6b627f7c62&pid=1-s2.0-S0026265X26001360-main.pdf

AIR BUBBLING ASSISTED SOIL WASHING TO TREAT PFAS IN HIGH ORGANIC CONTENT SOILS [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:05:58 GMT

Londhe, K., and A.K. Venkatesan. | Environments 12(1):20(2025)

A study explored the use of a novel process where soil washing was combined with air bubbling (or foam fractionation) to aid in PFAS removal from high organic carbon (OC)-content soil (~4-20%). Treatment with air bubbling of high OC soil (~20%) with PFBS and PFOA did not enhance removal, as they featured low surface activity. An improvement in PFOS extraction from 27% to 42% was observed with bubbling, consistent with the higher surface activity of PFOS compared to PFOA and PFBS. PFDA was irreversibly adsorbed to the high OC soil and was not removed efficiently by both bubbling and soil washing. A slight improvement in PFDA removal (6-13%) was observed when a co-surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium chloride) was added and when the OC content was reduced to ~4% by the addition of nonorganic sand to the contaminated soil before soil washing. This suggests that the interaction of PFDA with OC was the dominant factor determining its extraction from soil. Results indicated that soil washing alone was sufficient to remove short-chain PFAS from soil. Although bubbling had a mild effect on the removal of some long-chain PFAS from the solution, it did not help in the overall removal of PFAS from high OC soil, highlighting the difficulty in the treatment of high OC-content soil and that immobilization of PFAS would be an ideal approach in managing such contaminated sites. This article is Open Access at https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3298/12/1/20.

EXPLORATION OF PFAS MASS DISCHARGE IN STORMWATER VERSUS GROUNDWATER: TECHNICAL AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:05:44 GMT

Newell, C.J., J.D. Gamlin, G.J. Garvey, H.S. Rifai, G.O. Grundy, M. Gupta, M. Wang, N.W. Johnson, H. Javed, and M.Q. Lentz. | Remediation 36(1):e70052(2025)

A study analyzed the environmental criteria that may drive stormwater remediation, modeled the stormwater hydrologic response of hypothetical AFFF sites, compiled PFOS concentration data in stormwater, and compared the potential PFOS mass discharge in stormwater versus groundwater. Typical stormwater mass discharge of PFOS was relatively smaller than groundwater contributions at AFFF sites. However, given the faster impact timescale of stormwater movement and the variability in receiving water types and uses, many AFFF sites may require some form of stormwater management. The paper presents a series of potential regulatory approaches for PFAS-impacted stormwater, including expansion of existing regulatory programs, use of best management practices, individual site mass discharge limits, and watershed-scale PFAS mass balance approaches. This article is Open Access athttps://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/rem.70052.

ASCORBIC ACID STABILITY AND PH TESTING TO SUPPORT RWM-018 PILOT SCALE WELLHEAD TREATMENT SYSTEM FEASIBILITY DETERMINATION [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:05:27 GMT

VerMeulen, H., E. Koelker, and S. Fuentes. Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) Report SRNL-STI-2025-00578, 24 pp, 2025

Historical in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) injections of potassium permanganate and sodium persulfate left residual oxidant concentrations in the A/M-Area groundwater system at the Savannah River site. ISCO events targeted DNAPLs through strong oxidant injections within plume zones upgradient of current groundwater recovery wells RWM-008 and RWM-018. These residual oxidants could significantly impede the operation of the mercury removal system needed to meet NPDES permit requirements for the ongoing P&T system that hydraulically controls portions of the A/M-Area plume. Effluent-treated groundwater from this system is discharged to surface water at the receiving outfall of the M-1 Air Stripper. To prevent interference of the M-1 Air Stripper system by residual oxidants, groundwater recovery was ceased at well RWM-018. Oxidant transport modeling in the A/M-Area from ISCO estimated that the potential oxidant load contributed by RWM-018 could be as high as 120 mg/L. It is also possible that oxidants may contribute via pumping at well RWM-008 as residual oxidants within the aquifer migrate toward its zone of influence. SRNL conducted research to investigate potential pre-treatment chemicals to neutralize the residual oxidants before reaching the M-1 Air Stripper to allow for resumed groundwater recovery at RWM-018 and continued pumping at RWM-008. Deployment of ascorbic acid for neutralization of residual oxidants at RWM-018 (and possibly RWM-008) is recommended based on results from previous reductant testing. For a maximum estimated oxidant load at RWM-018, a well-head treatment system would need to dose about 400 gals ascorbic acid per month to ensure complete neutralization. A second system with an additional reagent should also be considered for deployment at RWM-008. https://www.osti.gov/servlets/purl/2997611

MULTI-APPROACH DATA PROCESSING WORKFLOW TO HELP CLOSING THE MASS BALANCE OF PFAS IN THE ENVIRONMENT [Research]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:05:07 GMT

Shrestha, O., J. Dahl, T. Matsubara, and R. Marfil-Vega. Environmental Measurement Symposium, August 4-8, St. Louis, MO, 35 slides, 2025

An untargeted LC-MS method employing a sensitive, high-mass-accuracy quadrupole time-of-flight (QToF) instrument was used to participate in the PFAS NTA Interlaboratory Study organized by NIST in 2024. This technique, coupled with a novel data-processing approach, enables comprehensive non-targeted PFAS screening that helps close the mass balance of PFAS in the environment. Three unknown samples (A, B, and C) obtained from NIST were analyzed to identify PFAS. A data-dependent acquisition (DDA) method in both positive and negative ionization modes was implemented using QToF mass spectrometry to expand the chemical space covered with the method. Multi-approach data processing included identifying PFAS compounds using NIST Library Match, the NIST suspect list, FluoroMatch, and LabSolutions. The EPA 1633 PFAS standard mix was used to validate m/z trigger settings for the DDA method. The NIST MS2 library was converted into a software-compatible format to facilitate accurate spectrum matching. Identification through NIST Suspect Match relied on common product ions, neutral losses, and isotope Score, with a mass error threshold of less than 5 ppm. FluoroMatch analysis incorporated its built-in PFAS library and algorithms, utilizing Kendrick Mass Defect plots to identify PFAS and related families. Results were dereplicated, and PFAS were identified and scored according to NIST-defined criteria. Samples A, B, and C had 40, 57, and 105 negative PFAS matches and 9, 44, and 29 positive matches. The presentation demonstrates the workflow and how the multi-data approach benefits PFAS identification. https://apps.nelac-institute.org/nemc/2025/docs/presentations/pdf/8-4-25-Emerging%20Environmental%20Applications%20for%20High%20Resolution%20Mass%20Spectrometry-2.01-Shrestha.pdf

FIELD DEMONSTRATION OF POLYMER STABILIZED ACTIVATED CARBON FOR IN SITU TREATMENT OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS)-IMPACTED GROUNDWATER [Demonstrations]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:04:52 GMT

Hatton, J., P.-F. Yan, C. Liu, S. Jo, J. Popovic, B.L. Rhiner, J. Wong, M. Mitchek, J. Li, W.A. Arnold, M.F. Simcik, and K.D. Pennell.
Journal of Hazardous Materials 499:140292(2025)

A field demonstration of a polymer-stabilized activated carbon (colloidal carbon product [CCP]) was conducted using a "push-pull" test, consisting of a "push" phase (CCP injection) and a "pull" phase (withdrawal of treated groundwater), to assess the effectiveness of the treatment technology. A lab-scale aquifer cell experiment using site aquifer materials and simulated groundwater demonstrated 90.9 to >?99.9% removal of all six tested PFAS by CCP injection. For the field-scale test, a total of 1,900-L CCP was injected into a 2.4-meter interval, and 4,750?L of water were extracted from the treated interval, with extractions conducted at 3- and 10-month post-injection. PFAS concentrations were reduced by up to four orders-of-magnitude, from >?50,000?ng/L total PFAS to below individual detection limits in samples collected 10 months post-injection. An economic analysis indicates that the operating costs of the CCP system would be less than half of a comparable P&T system. Findings demonstrate that CCP injection is a practical, efficient, and cost-effective in situ remediation strategy for addressing PFAS-impacted groundwater plumes. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389425032121/pdfft?md5=d7197e9f98aa8d951affd8edb14ecbb6&pid=1-s2.0-S0304389425032121-main.pdf

INNOVATIVE PHYTOMANAGEMENT SYSTEMS BY COMBINING MISCANTHUS AND SWITCHGRASS WITH BIOSTIMULANTS TO ENHANCE MICROBIAL DIVERSITY AND SOIL REMEDIATION [Demonstrations]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:04:37 GMT

Iqbala, Y., B. Mua, Z. Yia, W. Zegada-Lizarazuc, M. Von Cosseld, P. Peronic, E. Alexopouloue, A. Montic, E.G. Papazoglouf, T. Fua, and S. Xuea.
Industrial Crops and Products 234:121610(2025)

A technology with enhanced phytoremediation capacity that combines miscanthus and switchgrass with biostimulants to promote beneficial soil bacteria and fungi was evaluated through field trials on a metal-polluted soil. Crop growth was compared under two different biostimulants treatments and a control, considering biomass yield, morphological parameters, soil physicochemical and biological properties. Biostimulant treatments compared with control positively influenced crop biometric traits and increased biomass yield up to 3?t/ha (+54%) and 9?t/ha (+35%) for miscanthus and switchgrass, respectively, in the second establishment year. Biostimulants treatment HAM (humic acid combined with mycorrhizae) performed best by reducing the metal CaCl2-available fraction in both miscanthus and switchgrass plots, with the exceptions of Pb in switchgrass and Cu in miscanthus. The study corroborated that both factors under study, i.e., crop type and biostimulant applications, have influenced the soil microbiome structure. Compared with the control group, biostimulants HAM treatment increased Bacillus abundance by 44% in miscanthus and Candidatus Solibacter by 200% in switchgrass. In the case of fungi, the biostimulants HAM treatment promoted the relative abundance of Fusarium in the rhizospheres of both miscanthus and switchgrass. Findings suggest that selecting the right crop and biostimulants application can modulate the rhizosphere environment, consequently enhancing the effectiveness of phytomanagement technologies. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669025011562/pdfft?md5=4348870ee2d1470fdaf90d6bd2b663f3&pid=1-s2.0-S0926669025011562-main.pdf

COMBINING MICROBIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL, AND ABIOTIC PROCESSES FOR SIMULTANEOUS TREATMENT OF CVOCS AND HEAVY METALS [Demonstrations]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:04:23 GMT

Lakhwala, F. and A. Seech. | AEHS Foundation 41st Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy 20-23 October, Amherst, MA, 33 slides, 2025

Biogeochemical reduction (BGCR) combines natural microbiological, chemical, and abiotic processes such as enhanced reductive dechlorination (ERD) and in situ chemical reduction (ISCR) to enhance cVOC degradation and sequester toxic metals. This presentation describes the synergistic effect of these processes and provides representative site data from a field-scale application for the removal of chlorinated ethenes, cadmium, nickel, and zinc. https://s3.amazonaws.com/amz.xcdsystem.com/A51108D5-FA2F-2B6D-01D92AC0F42DCE3B_abstract_File26129/PDFofPresentation_42_1019090403.pdf

FINAL VERIFICATION STUDY/PILOT TEST COMPLETION REPORT INSTALLATION RESTORATION SITE 14 ALAMEDA POINT, ALAMEDA, CA [Demonstrations]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:04:08 GMT

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest, 154 pp, 2025

A pilot study at IR Site 14 in Alameda evaluated the effectiveness of an in situ colloidal activated carbon (CAC) barrier using PlumeStop® to reduce PFAS mass flux to the Oakland Inner Harbor. The verification effort included bench-scale column testing, passive flux meter (PFM) assessments, continuous soil coring, discrete groundwater sampling, and a clear-water injection test to refine barrier design and injection parameters. Column results showed that 0.5% CAC reduced total PFAS by more than two orders of magnitude, while 2.0% CAC achieved greater than three orders of magnitude reduction, leading to the selection of variable CAC concentrations (2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5%) based on PFAS mass loading across treatment zones. The barrier was installed using 290 direct-push injection points between 3 and 17 feet bgs, and 12 performance monitoring wells were installed along three transects to evaluate effectiveness. During the first year of post-injection monitoring, PFOS and PFOA concentrations generally decreased by more than 90% within the barrier and by 40-50% or more downgradient, with some wells showing reductions from over 100,000 ng/L to near non-detect levels. PFM data confirmed significant reductions in contaminant mass flux, and groundwater elevation monitoring indicated no mounding or adverse hydraulic impacts. Overall, the pilot study demonstrated that the 7.5% CAC barrier effectively reduced PFAS migration toward the harbor and provided critical data to support long-term remedial design decisions. https://alamedapointenviro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/site-14-verification-study_pilot-test-rpt.pdf

REMEDIATION OF PFAS-IMPACTED SOLIDS [Cleanup News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:03:53 GMT

Popovic, J. and J. Kornuc. NAVFAC Remediation Innovative Technology Seminar, 74 slides, 2025

The presentation provides a comprehensive overview of approaches for managing PFAS-impacted soil and solids, focusing on both established practices and emerging treatment technologies. The core of the presentation compares treatment technology categories, including thermal desorption, smoldering combustion, soil washing, and stabilization/solidification, summarizing their readiness levels, advantages, limitations, and costs for handling PFAS-laden materials. Case studies are described to demonstrate how the technologies perform in practice. At Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress, ~14 tons of soil with ~30 µg/kg PFAS was treated using stabilization followed by landfill disposal, with straightforward waste profiling and low cost. At Naval Station Newport, >52,000 tons of excavated soil with low PFAS concentrations (≤~5 µg/kg) were managed by segregating loads and disposing across multiple landfills with differing PFAS limits; this effort had substantial total costs and required extensive waste characterization. A small PFAS investigation-derived waste soil case at Cutler Site 10, NSA Fire Station, was disposed of as non-hazardous PFAS material in a landfill after waste profiling, highlighting logistical challenges in remote locations. An ex situ pilot-scale thermal desorption project at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson treated ~2,000 yd³ of soil to below both EPA residential regional screening levels and Alaska state cleanup criteria. Smoldering combustion tests at the same base showed >99.9% reduction in PFAS in treated soils, with most fluorine retained in stable forms like calcium fluoride and minimal emissions of PFAS or hydrofluoric acid, indicating effective destruction mechanisms beyond simple removal. The presentation concludes with guidelines for selecting and implementing PFAS solids treatment technologies, emphasizing protectiveness, historical data use, bench and pilot studies, regulatory coordination, and contingency planning, noting that PFAS solids management remains an evolving challenge with limited fully mature destruction technologies available. https://exwc.navfac.navy.mil/Portals/88/Documents/EXWC/Restoration/er_pdfs/rits/2025/RITS%202025_PFAS%20Solids%20Treatment_Final.pdf?ver=O13O_k822K6k7Krm4C876Q%3d%3d

NATURAL ATTENUATION- INNOVATIVE AND OBVIOUS [Cleanup News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 15:03:36 GMT

Knox, J.N. Northwest Remediation Conference, 20 October, Tacoma, WA, 12 slides, 2025

The scientific basis, regulatory framework, and practical implementation of monitored natural attenuation (MNA) are explained as a groundwater remediation strategy, particularly for chlorinated solvent sites. The presentation outlines regulatory expectations, the importance of source control prior to MNA selection, plume stability analysis, and the use of statistical trend evaluation and contingency triggers to ensure protectiveness. The case study focuses on a large, complex chlorinated solvent contamination site covering >300 acres with five or more intermingled plumes across three aquifer zones, divided by regulatory boundaries and monitored with well triplets to characterize vertical plume profiles. Source control and removal actions were carried out for all identified source areas before considering MNA as a remedial strategy. Lines of evidence supporting MNA included spatial degradation trends (significant breakdown of parent compounds like TCE into daughter products such as vinyl chloride and ethene), limited temporal decreases, and favorable geochemical conditions indicating natural biodegradation processes. A conceptual site model was developed to delineate source areas, the extent of contamination, and exposure pathways, which supported the observation of stable to shrinking overall plume behavior with some localized expanding zones, and molar comparisons showing elevated daughter products downgradient. The remedy also incorporated institutional controls and contingency triggers that would initiate additional actions if statistically significant increasing trends were detected at compliance points near discharge to the Lower Duwamish Waterway, reflecting risk-based management tied to ecological receptors. Long-term monitoring and financial assurance were highlighted as essential due to the extended timeframes required for attenuation processes to achieve regulatory goals. https://nwremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/B3_KNO1.pdf

SUPPLEMENTAL CONTAMINANT SOURCE AND CREEK SEDIMENT REMEDIATION AT A PREVIOUSLY REMEDIATED SUPERFUND SITE, PENNSYLVANIA, U.S.A. [Cleanup News]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 14:58:52 GMT

Reese III, W.J. and N. Rashid. | SETAC North America 46th Annual Meeting, 16-20 November, Portland, OR, abstract only, 2025

The Whitmoyer Laboratories Superfund site is a former pharmaceutical manufacturing facility contaminated with arsenic. Previous remediation included excavation and off-site disposal of soil impacted with high concentrations of arsenic, consolidation (under the cap) of soil with lower arsenic impacts, construction of a 2-ft thick permeable soil cap to prevent direct contact with residual subsurface arsenic-impacted soil, institutional controls, and hydraulic control and treatment of impacted groundwater. Post-remedy sediment monitoring revealed an area below the canal-creek confluence with elevated arsenic levels in the surficial creek sediment. This area was likely either overlooked during the original remedial investigations, due to the spatial scale of sediment data collected, or reflects newly contaminated sediments due to potential uncontrolled source(s) of arsenic loading to the creek. Supplemental sediment investigations were performed to better understand the horizontal and vertical extent of the impacted sediments. Numerous contemporaneous investigations revealed that overburden shallow groundwater with elevated arsenic has the potential to seasonally discharge to the creek from the southern bank at a former soil hot spot area, as overburden groundwater was not fully controlled by the bedrock pumping wells of the groundwater recovery system. To address this new source of arsenic to Tulpehocken Creek, an overburden groundwater interceptor trench system was constructed. Remedial alternatives are being evaluated to remove the area of contaminated sediments from the creek, cap the underlying impacted soils, and reconstruct the creek bed to mitigate the potential for erosion and recontamination of the new cap. The presentation focuses on the methods used to locate and delineate the area of contaminated creek sediment and determine the supplemental remediation required, including the overburden groundwater interceptor trench system, as well as the pending streambed remedial work. See site documents for more information: https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/SiteProfiles/index.cfm?fuseaction=second.scs&id=0300643&doc=Y&colid=30873®ion=03&type=SC

FY26 WILLAPA SEDIMENT CHARACTERIZATION SERVICE [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 14:58:30 GMT

US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Northwestern Division
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov PANNWD26P0000027927, 2026

This solicitation is being released as a Total Small Business Set-Aside under NAICS code 541620. Market research is being conducted to determine contractor capabilities for sediment characterization in Willapa Bay, Washington. The contractor will be expected to provide all personnel, equipment, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform the tasks for a sediment characterization in Willapa Bay as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS). Work will include preparing a sampling and analysis plan (SAP) suitable for submission for approval, sampling and characterizing the sediments in the proposed dredging area as described in the SAP, and preparing a report to document characterization results that can then be used by the Dredged Material Management Program (DMMP) to make a suitability determination. The PWS includes preparation of the SAP; sampling and testing of dredged material; data collection and analysis; and report preparation. The contractor must possess the following experience:

Performance of sediment characterization in coastal/marine environments.

Ability to generate sampling and analysis plans in accordance with the Dredged Material Management Program (DMMP) User Manual.

Ability to collect and process sediment core and grab samples and analyze the sediment samples for chemical and biological laboratory testing in accordance with DMMP guidance.

Ability to review, interpret, and synthesize chemical and biological sediment data succinctly in a comprehensive data report that includes tables and figures.

Ability to generate, review, and upload electronic data deliverables in the Washington State Environmental Information Management (EIM) database format for acceptance and publication in the EIM database.

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/1c622b57294b4b6ea9bc1348c3835529/view

ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY SERVICES [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 14:58:02 GMT

Us Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Division, Great Lakes and Ohio
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov PANGLR26P029694, 2026

ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY SERVICES
US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Division, Great Lakes and Ohio
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov
The USACE Chicago District is issuing this sources sought synopsis as a means of conducting market research to identify parties having an interest in and the resources to support the requirement for environmental laboratory services for water and sediment sampling analysis. The intention is to procure these services on a competitive basis. Based on the responses to this sources sought notice/market research, this requirement may be set-aside for small businesses (in full or in part) or procured through full and open competition, and multiple awards may be made. All Small Business Set-Aside categories will be considered. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted or acknowledged, and no feedback or evaluations will be provided to companies regarding their submissions. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/bc6c27c2cc114aafb9bd06ac387f8e83/view

PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE AND DRAFT RFP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION SERVICES (ERS) SINGLE AWARD TASK ORDER CONTRACT (SATOC) FOR THE SHAW AIR FORCE BASE OPTIMIZED REMEDIATION CONTRACT (ORC) [Market/Commercialization]

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 14:57:43 GMT

United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Engineer Division South Atlantic
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912HN26RA009, 2026

This pre-solicitation notice and Draft RFP are for a $40M Environmental Remediation Services (ERS), Single- Award Task Order contract (SATOC) for the Shaw Air Force Base Optimized Remediation Contract (ORC) for the USACE Savannah District. This acquisition is being offered as a 100% set-aside for small business competition, under NAICS 562910, and will result in a Firm Fixed Price Contract Award. This pre-solicitation notice provides industry with information prior to the issuance of the RFP and an opportunity for industry to comment on the Draft RFP. The objective of the Shaw Remediation Project is to achieve a site closure as defined in the Shaw Hazardous Waste RCRA Permit for unrestricted residential use. The Shaw AFB ORC consists of 18 Installation Restoration Program (IRP) sites, Operations and Maintenance for two large Groundwater Treatment Plants, and zero Military Munitions Response Program (MMRP) sites. POs include 11 RA-O Sites, three IRA-O Sites, and four LTM Sites. Eleven sites have a PO of Alternative Objectives as well as RC or SC. See the Draft RFP for the full SATOC and Seed Project Performance Work Statements. The ordering period is seven years for the base period and one six-month option period pursuant to FAR 52.217-8. The final approved solicitation will be issued in electronic format only and is anticipated to be available on or about 12 March 2026. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/7320f6b3a63044198763ef1de0e9abf3/view

EVALUATION ON THE BIOLOGICAL ASPECT OF PLANT, CONTAMINANT TYPES AND APPLICATION OF PHYTOREMEDIATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMICAL SUSTAINABILITY [General News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:42:21 GMT

Ghadge, S.A., P. Trivedi, B. Kumar. M, V. Singh, R. Mondal, A. Krishna V, and D.S. Painkra.
Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology 29(1):75-95(2026)

The phytoremediation potential of hyperaccumulators, grasses, woody trees, aquatic plants, and food crops against heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As, Cr, Ni, Zn), organic pollutants (PAHs, PCBs, pesticides), radionuclides, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and nutrient-induced eutrophication is systematically assessed in this review. It explains key physiological and molecular processes, including metal uptake via ZIP and HMA transporters, detoxification through phytochelatins, metallothioneins, vacuolar sequestration, root exudate-mediated mobilization, and microbial degradation. Technological advances such as CRISPR/Cas-based genetic modification, nano-enabled phytoremediation, synthetic plant-microbiome consortia, remote sensing, GIS-driven monitoring, and phytomining for metal recovery are emphasized. Field-based applications in mining zones, agricultural soils, wetlands, oil-spill areas, and industrial sites demonstrate significant remediation efficiency and ecological restoration. Although challenges persist, including slow remediation rate, pollutant toxicity to plants, biomass disposal, seasonal variability, lack of awareness, and limited policy incentives, economic assessments indicate phytoremediation is 5-10 times more cost-effective than conventional technologies. Future priorities involve deploying climate-resilient species, conducting long-term field trials, promoting circular economy-based biomass utilization, integrating phytoremediation with agroforestry, digital monitoring, and fostering interdisciplinary and international collaborations. https://journaljabb.com/index.php/JABB/article/view/3508/9284

BIODEGRADATION OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES: MECHANISMS, CHALLENGES, AND EMERGING STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE REMEDIATION [General News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:42:02 GMT

Nasrollahpour, S., S. Purewal, R. Kumar Das, and S. Kaur Brar.
Environmental Science Water Research & Technology 12:397(2026)

This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge and outlines strategic directions to advance PFAS biodegradation research and its practical implementation. Innovative strategies, including enzyme immobilization, phytoremediation, hybrid chemical-biological systems, and machine learning-based predictive modeling, are evaluated for their potential to enhance treatment efficiency. Remaining challenges include an incomplete understanding of metabolic pathways and limited scalability. A future research roadmap is proposed to integrate metabolic engineering, system optimization, and field-scale validation toward effective, sustainable PFAS biodegradation. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2026/ew/d5ew00888c

A CRITICAL REVIEW OF SURFACTANT-ENHANCED AQUIFER REMEDIATION FOR DNAPLS: RESIDUAL MORPHOLOGY, GOVERNING FACTORS, AND REMOVAL MECHANISMS Huang, C., B. He, Z. Liu, Z. Zhou, and Y. Li. Environmental Geochemistry and Health 48:134(2026) This review analyzes DNAPL migration and retention, identifying the residual phase as the critical barrier to successful remediation. Surfactant-enhanced aquifer remediation (SEAR) performance critically depends on surfactant properties, aquifer media, and hydrodynamic conditions, leading to variable outcomes. A comprehensive analysis of residual phase DNAPL migration mechanisms reveals that DNAPL movement is predominantly controlled by the interplay of gravitational, capillary, and viscous forces. The article presents a force-balance analytical framework connecting DNAPL displacement to key remediation parameters. Remediation success relies on identifying and regulating dominant forces under site-specific conditions, while aquifer heterogeneity and coupled parameters add complexity in three-dimensional field settings. Thus, multi-parameter interactions need systematic evaluation. Large-scale research on multi-parameter coupling mechanisms is currently lacking, and future efforts should address this to advance precise DNAPL remediation strategies. [General News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:41:48 GMT

Huang, C., B. He, Z. Liu, Z. Zhou, and Y. Li.
Environmental Geochemistry and Health 48:134(2026)

This review analyzes DNAPL migration and retention, identifying the residual phase as the critical barrier to successful remediation. Surfactant-enhanced aquifer remediation (SEAR) performance critically depends on surfactant properties, aquifer media, and hydrodynamic conditions, leading to variable outcomes. A comprehensive analysis of residual phase DNAPL migration mechanisms reveals that DNAPL movement is predominantly controlled by the interplay of gravitational, capillary, and viscous forces. The article presents a force-balance analytical framework connecting DNAPL displacement to key remediation parameters. Remediation success relies on identifying and regulating dominant forces under site-specific conditions, while aquifer heterogeneity and coupled parameters add complexity in three-dimensional field settings. Thus, multi-parameter interactions need systematic evaluation. Large-scale research on multi-parameter coupling mechanisms is currently lacking, and future efforts should address this to advance precise DNAPL remediation strategies.

BIOENGINEERED ENDOPHYTE-INTEGRATED BIOSENSORS: A NEW FRONTIER IN ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND REMEDIATION [General News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:41:33 GMT

Dhar, I., A. Sharma, A. Kumawat, A. Dadhich, H. Priyadarshi, L. Sharma, and M.M. Sharma. Experimental and Computational Advances in Materials p 339-382, 2026

This book chapter examines integrated approaches that combine biological materials, such as plant endophytes and enzyme systems, with nanomaterial-based biosensors for real-time environmental monitoring. Endophytes, known for their metal chelation, enzymatic activity, and stress tolerance, serve dual roles in contaminant detection and remediation. Coupled with green synthesis of nanoparticles and phytoremediation, these biological systems contribute to low-impact, resource-efficient cleanup processes. Advances in material characterization, nanostructure design, and surface engineering have improved biosensor sensitivity and selectivity across complex environmental matrices. In addition, computational tools such as life cycle assessment, predictive modeling, and machine learning aid in optimizing biosensor performance and assessing long-term environmental impacts. The chapter highlights how the convergence of experimental innovations and computational methodologies in materials science enables the design of smart, multifunctional systems for pollution management. Emphasis is placed on sustainability, adaptability, and real-world applicability, aligning with the broader goals of circular economy and green engineering. The interdisciplinary perspective supports the ongoing transition toward environmentally responsible technologies within the framework of materials science and engineering.

EFFECT OF LOW-TEMPERATURE THERMAL DECHLORINATION ON POLYCHLORINATED NAPHTHALENES IN MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE INCINERATION FLY ASH: CONCENTRATIONS, CONGENER PROFILES, AND DIOXIN-LIKE TOXICITY [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:41:21 GMT

Ito, K., S. Mizutani, and Y. Yabuki. | Chemosphere 395:144834(2026)

The concentrations, congener profiles, and dioxin-like toxicities of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) and PCDD/Fs were evaluated in municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash before and after low-temperature thermal dechlorination (LTD) at five full-scale facilities. LTD consistently induced stepwise dechlorination, reducing the average chlorination degree of PCNs by 1.1-1.5 points. However, total PCN concentrations exhibited facility-dependent behavior: decreases of 98-99% were observed at some facilities, whereas others showed increases of 230-370% relative to pre-LTD levels. The mass increase is plausibly attributed to the reformation of low-chlorinated PCNs on the fly ash carbon surfaces during the cooling phase. Despite these contrasting changes in mass concentrations, PCN-derived dioxin-like toxicity (PCN-TEQ) decreased substantially at all facilities (35-99% reduction). This robust detoxification occurred because LTD preferentially degrades the highly chlorinated congeners (e.g., 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexaCN and 1,2,3,4,6,7-hexaCN) that dominate PCN-TEQ. The PCN contribution to total toxicity consequently declined from 0.18 to 0.45% before LTD to 0.03-0.30% afterward. For PCDD/Fs, LTD generally lowered mass concentrations, although PCDD/F-TEQ reductions varied among facilities due to differences in residual high-TEF congeners. Findings unequivocally demonstrate that LTD is a highly effective strategy for mitigating the dioxin-like toxicity associated with PCNs in MSWI fly ash. Results enhance understanding of chlorinated pollutant transformation during full-scale LTD operation and support its optimization for safer MSWI fly ash management.

IMPACT OF MULTIPLE HVAC SYSTEMS ON INDOOR AIR VOC AND RADON CONCENTRATIONS FROM VAPOR INTRUSION DURING SEASONAL USAGE [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:40:25 GMT

Zimmerman, J.H., A. Williams, B. Schumacher, C. Lutes, R. Warrier, B. Cosky, B. Thompson, C.W. Holton, and K. Bronstein. | Atmosphere 16(4):378(2025)

Samples were collected between December 2020 and April 2022 at six commercial buildings in Fairbanks, Alaska, to evaluate VI risks and estimate the reasonable maximum exposure (RME) to the occupants. The types of samples collected included indoor air (IA); outdoor air; subslab soil gas; soil gas; indoor radon; differential pressure; indoor and outdoor temperature; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) parameters; and other environmental factors. The buildings near the VOC source/release points showed less variability in indoor air concentrations of TCE and PCE compared to buildings located farther downgradient from the contaminated groundwater plume. The VOC data pattern for the source area buildings shows an outdoor air temperature-dominated behavior for indoor air concentrations in the summer season. HVAC system operations had less influence on long-term indoor air concentration trends than environmental factors, which was supported by similar indoor air concentration patterns independent of location within the plume. Using soil temperature and indoor/outdoor temperatures as indicators and tracers (I&Ts) across the plume as predictors of the sampling period could produce a good estimation of the reasonable maximum exposure for the building occupants. Results, which show the use of soil temperature and indoor/outdoor temperatures as I&Ts, will help advance investigative methods to evaluate vapor intrusion in similar settings and thereby improve the protection of human health in indoor environments. This article is Open Access at https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4433/16/4/378.

ASSESSMENT OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) IN CONSUMER FOOD PACKAGING [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:40:11 GMT

Stroski, K. and Y. Sapozhnikova. | Chemosphere 395:144824(2026)

A new method was developed and validated to analyze 73 PFAS from 15 different classes in paper and plastic food contact materials (FCMs) based on methanolic extraction and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. The method was validated at three spiking levels with five replicates per level. Acceptable recoveries and repeatability were achieved for 96-100% of analytes between various spiking levels and food packaging materials. The validated method was used to test 66 paper and plastic food packaging materials in direct contact with the previously tested food samples of chicken, pork, beef, and catfish purchased from grocery stores in the U.S. Nine PFAS were detected in the samples: 8:2 FTSA, 6:2 diPAP, 8:2 diPAP, diSAmPAP, PFBA, PFHxA, PFOA, PFBS, and PFOS with ?PFAS concentrations ranging from 0.11 to 16.3 ng/g. At least one PFAS was detected in 64% of the samples. The most frequently detected PFAS was 6:2 diPAP found in 61% of samples, across all material types in concentrations of 0.09-10.3 ng/g. Results suggest no evidence of PFAS transfer from FCMs tested in this study to packaged food tested in a previous study.

ELECTROKINETIC MOBILIZATION OF PFAS IN SOILS: LINKING HEAD GROUP AND CHAIN LENGTH TO REMEDIATION EFFICIENCY [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:39:52 GMT

Dhulia, A., C. Abou-Khalil, K. Mustafa, D. Sarkar, M.C. Boufadel.
Chemosphere 396:144837(2026)

Five PFAS compounds (PFBA, PFOA, PFDA, PFOS, and FOSA) were selected to investigate the influence of molecular structure, representing variations in chain length and head group, on remediation efficiency. Electrokinetic (EK) remediation and hydraulic gradient (HG) treatments were applied to soil with organic matter contents of 5%, 30%, and 50%. PFAS removal was highly influenced by the molecular structure of the species. Both EK and HG were effective at mobilizing short-chain PFAS, which are more mobile in porewater. However, moving longer-chain or more strongly sorbing PFAS was more challenging. The compounds responded better to HG due to the stronger advective forces and may require a combination of HG and EK to achieve significant mobilization. Overall, PFOS, FOSA, and PFDA showed limited mobilization under either treatment due to their stronger sorption to soil organic matter, which restricts both electrokinetic and hydraulic transport. Findings highlight the need to align remediation strategies with PFAS physicochemical properties and soil composition to improve field-scale treatment efficiency.

DECONVOLUTING AND INTERPRETING NONTARGETED CHEMICAL DATA: A DATA-DRIVEN FORENSIC WORKFLOW FOR IDENTIFYING THE MOST PROMINENT CHEMICAL SOURCES IN RECEIVING WATERS [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:39:33 GMT

Shi, C., C.M.G. Carpenter, D.E. Helbling, and G.D. Jones.
Environmental Science & Technology 59(36):19307-19317(2025)

This article presents a data-driven workflow that reduces bias on existing workflows that often rely on predefined targets and known sources, by applying an unsupervised machine learning technique. Both nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) were applied on the same nontargeted chemical data set to compare their different interpretations of environmental sources. Weekly nontargeted data were collected from the Fall Creek Monitoring Station (Ithaca, NY), where daily samples were previously analyzed using source-defined models. NMF was first used to decompose the full nontargeted chemical data set into a small set of chemical factors representing distinct composition profiles. Each factor was then interpreted through (1) Spearman correlations with watershed characteristics and (2) suspect screening of high-weighted nontargeted features. In addition to confirming known anthropogenic inputs, analysis revealed potential novel sources associated with snowmelt, groundwater seepage, and seasonal hydrological dynamics. An annual shift in the chemical composition was also detected, highlighting the evolving influence of these sources. This workflow enables watershed managers to move beyond predefined sources, detect both known and emerging chemical contributors, and apply adaptive, evidence-based strategies to protect water quality under changing conditions.

PATHWAYS FOR THE MINERALIZATION OF PERFLUOROOCTANESULFONIC ACID UNDER A SMOLDERING REDUCTIVE ATMOSPHERE [Research]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:39:18 GMT

Zhan, M., Z. Zhang, Y. Shan, J. Fu, P. Cai, and W. Jiao.
Environmental Science & Technology 60(4):3668-3680(2026)

In this study, PFOS smoldering degradation pathways and relative bond cleavage mechanisms were deduced from lab-scale byproduct profiles and supported by reactive force field simulations and quantum-chemical calculations. Smoldering self-sustained at a 0.79 MJ/kg calorific value and 1.5-2.5 cm/s air Darcy velocity. The removal rate of PFOS reached 98.1%, with only ?50% energy consumption compared with that of conventional incineration under equivalent degradation conditions. Investigations revealed distinct degradation pathways in smoldering compared with traditional approaches: in a CO atmosphere, early C-C bond scission and CO-coupled sulfur transformation were predicted (potentially evolving toward COS). This pathway played a dominant role in PFOS degradation, providing more efficient sulfur-group transformation, less toxic byproducts, and better compatibility with oxygen-limited conditions. Pilot-scale experiments further validated the feasibility for field applications, achieving 98.6% PFOS removal. Findings provide mechanistic insights into improved smoldering-based PFAS remediation under reductive conditions and optimization of treatment strategies toward higher efficiency and environmental safety.

ARRAY OPTIMIZATION AND PILOT VERIFICATION OF ELECTROKINETIC-ENHANCED BIODECHLORINATION SYSTEM [Demonstrations]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:39:04 GMT

Yu, S.-T., Z.-T. Li, S.-Y. Yang, Q. Cai, S. Yuan, X. Song, A. Tiehm, and H.-P. Zhao.
Environmental Science & Technology 60(3):2566-2577(2026)

A comprehensive electrokinetic bioremediation (EK-BIO) lab-to-field framework was established that included lab batch experiments, array optimization, pilot-scale field validation, and life cycle assessment was established. Primarily, batch and column experiments optimized both the additive dosage strategy and electrode array configuration, favoring a 6-day preinoculation of the niche-preparing culture and a unidirectional one-dimensional electrode setup. Guided by the results, the 98-day EK-BIO pilot experiment achieved >90.0% TCE removal, with a 74.0% chloroethylene-to-ethylene conversion efficiency. Microbial community analyses further revealed a notable increase in the relative abundance of putative organohalide-respiring bacteria in the EK-BIO, ~25.6% and 34.3% higher than in bioaugmentation and electrokinetic treatments, respectively. Additionally, life cycle assessment results underscored the advantages of EK-BIO over conventional thermal remediation alternatives, with reductions in carbon emissions, energy consumption, and remediation costs. The study validated the feasibility and reliability of EK-BIO technology, supporting its advancement for the in situ remediation of organochlorine-contaminated sites.

A METHOD FOR EVALUATING THE EFFECTS OF GENTLE REMEDIATION OPTIONS (GRO) ON SOIL HEALTH: DEMONSTRATION AT A DDX-CONTAMINATED TREE NURSERY IN SWEDEN [Demonstrations]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:38:50 GMT

Drenning, P., Y. Volchko, A. Enell, D.B. Kleja, M. Larsson, and J. Norrman.
Science of The Total Environment 948:174869(2025)

An accessible, scientific method for soil health assessment was developed and demonstrated for a field experiment at a DDX-contaminated tree nursery site in Sweden to evaluate the relative effects of gentle remediation options (GRO) on soil health (i.e., the 'current capacity' to provide ecosystem services [ES]). For the set of relevant soil quality indicators (SQI) selected using a simplified logical sieve, GRO treatment was observed to have highly significant effects on many SQI according to statistical analysis due to the strong influence of biochar amendment on the sandy soil and positive effects of nitrogen-fixing leguminous plants. The SQI were grouped within five soil functions (SF), and the relative effects on soil health were evaluated compared to a reference state (experimental control) by calculating quantitative treated-SF indices. Multiple GRO treatments had statistically significant positive effects on many SF, including pollutant attenuation and degradation, water cycling and storage, nutrient cycling and provisioning, and soil structure and maintenance. The SF were in turn linked to soil-based ES to calculate treated-ES indices and an overall soil health index, which can provide valuable information to decision-makers regarding the effectiveness of GRO. The experimental GRO treatment of the legume mix with biochar amendment and grass mix with biochar amendment resulted in statistically significant improvements to soil health, with overall SHI values of 141% and 128%, respectively, compared to the reference state of the grass mix without biochar (set to 100%). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724050186/pdfft?md5=dc1008ed9288e834cf8e71454e49da6f&pid=1-s2.0-S0048969724050186-main.pdf

IMPLICATIONS FOR MODELING ANION EXCHANGE TREATMENT OF PERFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES IN DRINKING WATER AND RELATED NATURAL ORGANIC IMPACTS: A PILOT STUDY [Demonstrations]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:38:24 GMT

Smith, S., D. Wahman, E. Kleiner, B. Gray, T. Sanan, E. Stebel, C. Gastaldo, E. Hughes, S. Pedigo, B. Datsov, M. Lathrop-Allen, I. Bass, J. Quinn, G. Abulikemu, J. Pressman, G. Sorial, and L. Haupert. | Water Research 288(Part B):124685(2026)

To better understand natural organic matter (NOM) impacts on PFAS removal in drinking water, this study investigated PFAS breakthrough from pilot-scale fixed-bed anion exchange columns fed a stable water quality influent with and without addition of reconstituted Ohio River water NOM at four empty bed contact times (EBCTs; 0.5-, 1.0-, 1.5-, and 2.5-min). PFAS elution order was mostly consistent with previously reported batch-derived selectivity with respect to chloride (K_x/Cl), with deviations in bed volumes to early breakthrough (BV10) attributed to molecular size-exclusion kinetic limitations. Earlier breakthroughs were observed with NOM compared to without NOM. NOM impacts on BV10 were greater for larger, later-eluting PFAS. An ion exchange column model (IEX-CM; https://github.com/USEPA/Water_Treatment_Models) was applied to evaluate correlations for estimating film mass transfer coefficient (k_L) and to estimate PFAS intraparticle diffusion coefficient (D_s) and K_x/Cl by fitting PFAS effluent data to IEX-CM simulated concentrations, resulting in most PFAS breakthrough curves being well-described by IEX-CM simulations. Some deviations from the IEX-CM were noted, including unexplained chromatographic effects on PFHxA and apparent non-adsorption hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA or GenX chemicals) removal, which was enhanced by increasing EBCT and the absence of NOM.

WELCOME TO THE VADOSE ZONE: THE USE OF LYSIMETERS IN THE EVALUATION OF PFAS SOURCES AT THREE SITES IN NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND [Demonstrations]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:36:58 GMT

Duncan, J. | AEHS Foundation 41st Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy 20-23 October, Amherst, MA, 28 slides, 2025

Multiple lysimeters were installed at three sites in New Hampshire to evaluate potential PFAS sources, which had previously been detected in groundwater. The sampling devices provided site-specific and potentially more representative data to evaluate PFAS leaching from soil and biosolids-amended soil. The installation and use of lysimeters, along with related technical challenges, are presented. Data obtained from lysimeter-collected pore water, compared with results from co-located soil, groundwater, and/or Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) leachate, are discussed, along with lessons learned from data analysis, particularly as they regard the development of future sampling plans. The subject sites include a school, a landfill, and a former industrial waste processing site. In each case, groundwater was suspected of being impacted by PFAS present in applied biosolids and/or soil that had been disturbed through previous remedial efforts. Results confirmed the subject soil and biosolids-amended soil as potential sources of PFAS to groundwater. These investigations have shown lysimeters to be useful sampling devices for site investigations potentially involving the transport of PFAS from soil to groundwater, while also providing valuable lessons learned for future projects. https://s3.amazonaws.com/amz.xcdsystem.com/A51108D5-FA2F-2B6D-01D92AC0F42DCE3B_abstract_File26129/PDFofPresentation_89_1020022350.pdf

LESSONS LEARNED FROM IN-SITU ACTIVATED CARBON AMENDMENT APPLICATIONS TO TREAT DIOXIN/FURAN CONTAMINATION IN THE SCANLON AND THOMSON RESERVOIRS, ST. LOUIS RIVER AREA OF CONCERN [Cleanup News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:36:42 GMT

Lehto, L., B. Leick, C. Nigrelli and M. Kern. | SETAC North America 46th Annual Meeting, 16-20 November, Portland, OR, abstract only, 2025

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency partnered with EPA's Great Lakes National Program Office on two Great Lakes Legacy Act projects to remediate dioxin/furan contaminated sediments in the Scanlon and Thomson Reservoirs. Due to the geologic and hydrodynamic constraints of the reservoirs, remedial capping and dredging/removal were not viable remedial alternatives. The selected remedy was application of a pelletized form of powdered activated carbon (PAC) amendment to minimize uptake of contaminants from the sediment to benthic invertebrates. Approximately 238 tons of pelletized PAC were placed over a 13.7-acre area at the Scanlon Reservoir. Upon completion, the Thomson Reservoir project is projected to place 18,600 tons of pelletized PAC over ~66 acres. Pelletized activated carbon placement at this scale is a new and novel way of mitigating the bioavailability of contaminants, leading to design and implementation unknowns. Dust mitigation strategies during transfer and placement of the amendment were developed during full-scale placement at both sites. Quality assurance and quality control procedures to verify PAC placement thicknesses were independently developed for each site and modified during placement to achieve the best possible data. Accessing and placing pellets in shallow and variable water depths were also overcome with varying degrees of success. Robust plans were developed to monitor the activated carbon and in situ porewater concentrations post-placement to track remedy effectiveness. More information on the site: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/area-of-concern-projects-and-progress

ASSESSING PLUME STABILITY TO SUPPORT TRANSITION FROM ACTIVE REMEDIATION TO MONITORED NATURAL ATTENUATION [Cleanup News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:36:26 GMT

Malkemus, D., T. Roth, and P. Zawislanski. | Northwest Remediation Conference, 20 October, Tacoma, WA, 29 slides, 2025

A scientific framework is presented for evaluating groundwater plume stability to determine when it is appropriate to transition from active remedial actions to monitored natural attenuation (MNA). The presentation describes how contaminant plumes evolve over time through natural processes such as dispersion, dilution, sorption, and biodegradation, and emphasizes the importance of understanding both concentration trends and mass-based metrics in plume assessment. Traditional concentration-based trend analysis was contrasted with mass and mass discharge approaches, noting that statistical methods alone often fail to quantify actual rates of change and plume behavior. The presentation also illustrates methods for calculating plume decay rates, bulk attenuation, mass flux, and mass discharge, and highlights their value in objectively characterizing plume stability. A detailed case study is presented, demonstrating how data on contaminant concentrations, mass removal, and trend analyses can be integrated to show decreases in plume area and discharge over time, supporting a defensible shift toward MNA. The conclusions emphasize the need for multiple lines of evidence, including trend statistics, attenuation rates, plume footprint evolution, mass discharge trends, and supporting geochemical and biological data, to establish a scientifically robust basis for transitioning to MNA while ensuring long-term protectiveness. https://nwremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/B3MALK1.pdf

DEMONSTRATION STUDY OF OZONE/ACTIVATED CARBON ENHANCED GROUNDWATER CIRCULATION WELL FOR REMEDIATION OF A PETROLEUM CONTAMINATED SITE [Cleanup News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:36:11 GMT

Zhu, X., Y. Wang, Y. Lai, Q. Shan, X. Tian, D. Zhao, R. Zhang, B. Yu, Z. Qu, and W. Chen. Water Resources 53:191-200(2026)

The improvement of traditional groundwater circulation wells by utilizing ozone for aeration while filling the upper planar hole with activated carbon, was used to determine the treatment effect of total petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene and toluene. After 192 h of groundwater ozone aeration at 30 L/min, the removal rates of total petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene and toluene in ZJ1, a circulation well in the area closer to the pollution source, reached 97.46, 99.54 and 90%. Removal rates of total petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene and toluene in ZJ2, located in the area farther away from the source of contamination, reached 99.76, 99.42 and 99.1%. The ozone/activated carbon enhanced groundwater circulation well had an impact radius of 5 m. Among the three monitoring wells, GW1, GW2 and GW3, the highest removal rate of each pollutant was found in GW3, followed by GW2, and the lowest was found in GW1. Compared to the existing groundwater circulation well, the remediation efficiency was improved in the ozone/activated carbon enhanced groundwater circulation well.

CASE STUDIES IN REMEDIATION OF EMERGING CONTAMINANTS AND CONTAMINATED SITES [Cleanup News]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:35:55 GMT

Vidyasagar, G.V. and P. Keerthi. Chapter of Emerging Contaminants in the Environment, p 403-413, 2026

This chapter explores a range of real-world case studies that demonstrate effective remediation techniques contaminants, including PFAS, across global contexts. It focuses on examples such as arsenic removal in West Benga to advanced solutions like foam fractionation for PFAS treatment in Australia, the use of constructed wetlands for eliminating pharmaceutical residues in Spain, and the application of nanotechnology for chromium cleanup in the U.S. A comparative analysis sheds light on the performance, scalability, and limitations of each method. The chapter wraps up with key takeaways and forward-looking suggestions for improving future remediation practices.

PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE AND DRAFT RFP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION SERVICES (ERS) SINGLE AWARD TASK ORDER CONTRACT (SATOC) FOR THE SHAW AIR FORCE BASE OPTIMIZED REMEDIATION CONTRACT (ORC) (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:35:38 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic Engineer Division, Savannah District, Savannah, GA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912HN26RA009, 2026

When this solicitation is released on or about March 12, 2026, it will be competed as a total small business set aside under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to issue a solicitation for Environmental Remediation Services under a Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC). This contract will enable USACE to provide a full range of environmental remediation services in support of the Air Force Civil Engineer Center's Optimized Remediation Contract at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. The primary objective is the remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated with a variety of substances, including PFAS, chlorinated solvents, petroleum products, and explosive constituents. The contractor must have the capability to perform these services at Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste sites funded through the Department of Defense Installation Restoration Program or the Defense Logistics Agency at Shaw AFB. The base period for the SATOC will be seven years, with a total contract ceiling of $40,000,000. The pricing structure will be firm-fixed-price. A site visit is scheduled for March 5, 2026; attendee lists are due no later than February 23, 2025. There is no solicitation at this time. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/ee08eada59df46efac16bfc794141226/view

NAVAJO AREA - ABANDONED MINES RESPONSE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES (SNOTE) [Market/Commercialization]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:35:22 GMT

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9 Contracting Office, San Francisco, CA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov 68HE0926R0006, 2026

This is a special notice under NAICS code 562910. EPA requires a contractor to provide cleanup, response, and construction services, primarily at former uranium mining-related sites located within or near the Navajo Nation and the Grants Mining District in New Mexico in U.S. EPA Regions 6 and 9. The U.S. EPA expects to make an award for this requirement by September 1, 2026. A pre-proposal Industry Day/Conference amongst the U.S. EPA and Potential Offerors is anticipated to occur approximately one week after the Request For Proposals Solicitation is posted on FEDCONNECT and SAM.gov.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/5c44292dbf1d4217951d5659bc2cd9f4/view

INDEFINITE DELIVERY/ INDEFINITE QUANTITY (IDIQ) CONTRACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING SERVICES [Market/Commercialization]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:35:08 GMT

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov N4008526R0010, 2026

This Indefinite Delivery/ Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with recurring and non-recurring Environmental Sampling Services will be issed under NAICS code 541380 at the Naval Weapons Station Crane, Crane, IN and Lake Glendora Test Facility, Sullivan, Indiana. The contractor shall have the ability to provide environmental sampling services including building and equipment surveys, consultation and program management support related to asbestos, lead, PCBs, soil and water, environmental condition of property assessments, and testing and laboratory analysis services. Additional services required include library, database file, and program support related to these environmental programs. This acquisition will result in the award of a contract for a term of one 12-month base period and four 12-month option periods. The term of the contract will not exceed 60 months or the total value of the contract, whichever comes first. The options may be exercised within the time frame specified in the resultant contract at the sole discretion of the Government subject to workload and/or satisfaction of the contractor?s performance under this contract. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/c400de0d9d16442c9ea370ef084f6a56/view

ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (ESTCP) - INSTALLATION ENERGY AND WATER TECHNOLOGIES (EW) SUPPLEMENTAL (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:34:34 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Humphreys Engineer Center Support Activity, Alexandria, VA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912HQ26S0030, 2026

This is a pre-solicitation notice for planning and informational purposes only. The Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP), in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, seeks pre-proposals from qualified private sector organizations under a Broad Agency Announcement for Fiscal Year 2027 to demonstrate and validate innovative, cost-effective Installation Energy and Water technologies that enhance DoD installation resilience, energy security, water efficiency, and infrastructure sustainment. ESTCP is soliciting mature, non commercial technologies that have completed proof-of-concept and are ready for operational demonstration at DoD facilities to generate defensible cost and performance data, support regulatory and end-user acceptance, and accelerate technology transition and implementation across DoD. Selected projects will involve structured demonstrations under real-world conditions, development of guidance and reporting deliverables, engagement with DoD users and regulators, and participation in a multi-stage competitive evaluation process beginning with a mandatory pre-proposal submission. To be eligible for consideration, parties wishing to respond to this announcement must submit a pre proposal in accordance with the instructions on the website, no later than 2:00 PM EDT on March 26, 2026. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/6cc929c109174254b8fbd1a72d736267/view

RECENT PROGRESS IN CURRENT AND EMERGING TECHNIQUES FOR THE DETECTION OF PFAS &ndash THE FOREVER CHEMICALS [General News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:21:28 GMT

Chugh, V., P. Gaskin, and W. Zhang. Sensors & Diagnostics (2026)

This review surveyed PFAS sensor technologies developed in the past decade, including optical, electrochemical, and emerging biosensing and whole-cell reporter platforms. For each sensor class, typical limits of detection, dynamic ranges, regeneration, and compatibility with repeated measurements in real and complex water matrices are summarized. The underlying recognition and transduction principles, including molecularly imprinted polymers, host-guest interactions, ion-selective membranes, nanomaterial-enhanced interfaces, and biological recognition elements, are highlighted to connect materials design with analytical performance. Across the platforms, key advantages include miniaturization, rapid response, and potential integration into portable or online monitoring systems. Major limitations involve selectivity among structurally similar PFAS, matrix interferences, long-term stability, and limited multi-analyte capability. The review discusses how current research addresses these challenges through preconcentration strategies, sensor arrays, nanostructured materials, and integrated sample handling and outlines future directions toward regulatory-grade, field-deployable PFAS sensors capable of continuous monitoring, multiplex detection, and scalable deployment in drinking water and environmental surveillance. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2026/sd/d5sd00166h

ESTIMATING ACCURACY AND PRECISION IN THE BIOAVAILABILITY-ADJUSTED EXPOSURE POINT CONCENTRATION TO SUPPORT HUMAN HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF LEAD-CONTAMINATED SOILS [General News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:20:57 GMT

Nelson, C., K. Li, G. Diamond, M. Lambert, and K. Bradham.
Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health - Part A 89(2):79-93(2026)

Under EPA's CERCLA program, soil suspected of lead (Pb) contamination is evaluated to assess the impact of soil Pb exposure on blood Pb levels. The decision to remediate partly relies on whether the measured soil exposure point concentration (EPC) exceeds an action level. EPA established data quality objectives (DQOs) to support data collection used to estimate the EPC and assess confidence in remediation decisions. To support DQO processes at sites where site-specific soil Pb relative bioavailability (RBA) is assessed, a statistical simulation model was developed that estimates false compliance/exceedance decision error probabilities based upon uncertainty in the RBA-adjusted EPC, employing model inputs defining the sampling protocol being evaluated, variability in total and bioavailable soil Pb across the assessed area, and analytical measurement uncertainty. A framework for utilizing the simulation model is presented using a hypothetical site informed by concentration and soil Pb bioavailability distributions from an actual Pb-contaminated site. Pre-sampling, false compliance/exceedance decision error probabilities were predicted for various sampling protocols. A DQO-compliant sampling protocol was then selected, and accuracy and precision in the measured EPC were assessed relative to a specified risk-based action level.

BIOREMEDIATION OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS CONTAMINATED SOILS/WATER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION [General News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:20:36 GMT

Sahith, V.N., J. Aravind Kumar, V.S. Sruthi, S. Sundararaman, D. Prabu, D. Venkatesan, and A.A. Renita. | Biodegradation 37(3)(2025)

This review focuses on the biodegradation of various PAHs, such as naphthalene, phenanthrene, anthracene, and pyrene, by bacteria, including Pseudomonas, Mycobacterium, Rhodococcus, and marine species from the Novosphingobium genus. These microbes use dioxygenase enzymes to initiate the breakdown of PAHs into less toxic intermediates. The review also explores the role of biosurfactants and biofilms in enhancing the bioavailability of PAHs, promoting more efficient degradation. It also discusses the advantages of microbial consortia, where multiple species collaborate to degrade a broader range of PAHs. Recent advancements in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and nanotechnology are highlighted as promising tools to further enhance microbial degradation efficiency. The microbial bioremediation represents a sustainable solution to PAHs contamination, complementing traditional methods and offering significant potential for environmental restoration and human health improvement.

COVALENT ORGANIC FRAMEWORKS FOR ADSORPTION OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) [General News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:20:11 GMT

Zhang, G., Y. Li, X.-A. Wang, J. Lin, Y. Cao, Z. Jia, and S. Liu.
ACS Applied Polymer Materials [Published online 26 January 2026 before print]

This review systematically summarizes how covalent organic frameworks (COF) structural modifications, specifically functional group engineering and pore optimization, regulate PFAS adsorption mechanisms via electrostatic, hydrophobic, and fluorine-fluorine interactions. To address challenges, including high synthesis costs of COFs and insufficient adsorption efficiency toward short-chain PFAS, the review also outlines future research priorities. Thus, this work not only provides theoretical guidance for designing high-performance COF-based adsorbents but also supplies ideas and methods for the control of PFAS.

PORTABLE ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSORS FOR PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES: DESIGN, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR FIELD DEPLOYMENT [General News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:19:51 GMT

Gondhiya, N., A. Ur Rehman, D. Andreescu, and S. Andreescu.
Current Opinion in Electrochemistry 53:101725(2025)

Electrochemical sensors provide the necessary sensitivity to detect PFAS at regulatory limits and show promise for large-scale environmental monitoring without requiring costly lab equipment. This review highlights recent advances in electrochemical sensing technologies and their potential as field-deployable devices for rapid screening and onsite PFAS detection. Examples include sensor platforms based on redox-active reporters, molecularly imprinted polymers, redox dyes, metal organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, nanoparticle impacts, and nanobubble and nanopore technologies, coupled with direct or indirect signal transduction strategies. The review also discusses promising sensor designs and detection mechanisms and outlines the key challenges and future directions needed to advance their practical deployment in environmental monitoring applications. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451910325000845/pdfft?md5=012a7d440987b64e14d6d185d47961fe&pid=1-s2.0-S2451910325000845-main.pdf

EVALUATION OF THE BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF A REAL CONTAMINATED GROUNDWATER THROUGH REDUCTIVE DECHLORINATION BIOSTIMULATION [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:19:30 GMT

Yaqoubi, H., H. Yaqoubi, G. Sassetto, M. Presutti, M. Belfaquir, B. Matturro, S. Rossetti, L. Lorini, M.P. Papini, and M. Zeppilli. Frontiers in Chemical Engineering 7:1511251(2025)

A microcosm study assessed the effectiveness of bioaugmentation with an enriched dechlorinating consortium to remediate tetrachloroethane (TeCA), TCE, and sulphate ion in groundwater. Various conditions, including biostimulation and bioaugmentation approaches, were tested to evaluate the feasibility of biological treatment. Operating conditions facilitated the dechlorination of TCE into ETH, leading to an increase in the Dehalococcoides mccartyi population to 67% of the total bacteria, with reductive dechlorination (RD) rates up to 7 µeq/Ld. The RD performance of microcosms with real contaminated groundwater was negatively affected by the combined presence of TeCA and sulphate, indicated by a low abundance of D. mccartyi (<3%) and low RD rates (up to 0.39 µeq/Ld), suggesting that the native microbial population lacked the capacity for effective dechlorination. The principal component analysis plot highlighted distinct groupings based on microbial community across different microcosm conditions; microbial community structures dominated by D. mccartyi were associated with higher reductive dechlorination rates, while non-augmented and non-stimulated microcosms reflected distinct microbial communities dominated by non-dechlorinating taxa. In addition, RD decreased (48, 23, 22, and 14 µeq/Ld) with increasing sulphate concentrations (0, 150, 225, and 450 mgSO₄ -2/L), further demonstrating the inhibitory effect of sulphate in the treated contaminated groundwater. This article is Open Access at https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/chemical-engineering/articles/10.3389/fceng.2025.1511251/full

SURFACE-ENHANCED RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY DETECTION OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES IN AQUEOUS FILM-FORMING FOAMS [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:18:24 GMT

Wang, C., K. Biswas, S. Jeong, A. Bello, D. Bello, and M.B. Ross.
Environmental Science & Technology 60(1):1153-1160(2025)

Concave cubic gold nanoparticles were used for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect PFAS in ppm concentrations, differentiating the six PFAS (PFHpA, PFNA, PFDA, PFOA, PFHxS, and PFOS) regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Calculated Raman spectra, solid-state Raman spectra, and ¹⁹F NMR are used to further understand the physicochemical properties of these six PFAS. Quantitative analysis of PFOA and PFOS can be achieved from 0.1 to 10 ppm, while PFAS can be differentiated from three common fluorinated pharmaceuticals, and PFCA can be differentiated from C⁷ to C¹⁰ based on the length of the perfluoroalkyl backbone. The study highlights that SERS can be used to identify PFAS in real-world AFFFs, as confirmed separately by mass spectrometry.

IN SITU SURFACTANT-ASSISTED ASSEMBLY FOR EFFICIENT REMOVAL OF PFAS BY LOW-PRESSURE ULTRAFILTRATION MEMBRANE PROCESS [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:17:51 GMT

Ren, Z., Z. Feng, H. Liang, Z. Zhu, Y. Yang, and X. Lu.
Environmental Science & Technology 60(2):2207-2218(2026)

A surfactant-assisted ultrafiltration (UF) strategy is presented for enhanced PFAS separation through leveraging in situ assembly of PFAS molecules with the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Adding CTAB (0.14 mM) induces the formation of nanoscale complexes or micelles with PFAS, promoting effective retention by UF membranes (99.1% for 0.14 mM CTAB vs 30.3% without CTAB). Experimental and modeling results reveal a concentration polarization effect that leads to the accumulation of CTAB on the membrane surface. Even when the bulk concentration of CTAB is below its critical micelle concentration, localized micelle formation occurs near the membrane interface, enabling effective retention of PFAS. Notably, the CTAB-enhanced UF process is also effective in retaining other PFAS species, especially long-chain compounds such as PFHxA. Further experiments indicate that compared with electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions between PFOA and CTAB play a more dominant role in forming micelles, thereby governing the subsequent retention by UF membranes. The study offers mechanistic insights into surfactant-mediated PFAS removal and presents a scalable, low-pressure membrane strategy for the effective treatment of PFAS-contaminated water.

INCINERATION OF PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID LEADS TO REGENERATION OF SMALLER PERFLUOROCARBOXYLIC ACIDS [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:17:31 GMT

Rocchio, C., J. Mattila, S. Sharma, J. Krug, G. Kogekar, W. Roberson, J. Offenberg, K. Pennell, W. Linak, and C. Goldsmith.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry A 129(35):8160-8169(2025)

A study demonstrated that PFOA destruction in a pilot-scale incinerator led to a mixture of smaller PFCAs. Chemical ionization mass spectrometry was used to measure the concentration of PFCAs ranging from C₂ to C₉. The actual yield of PFCAs depends upon the location of PFOA injection and thus upon the peak temperature experienced within the furnace. A chemical kinetic mechanism was developed to explain the results. Two different pathways were considered: a low-temperature pathway that proceeds through a short-lived ?-lactone intermediate and a high-temperature pathway that proceeds through cleaving a C-C bond in the alkyl backbone. Theoretical modeling of PFOA incineration at peak temperatures of ?1130 and ?1020 K predicted the formation of trifluoroacetic acid and other small PFCAs.

QUANTIFICATION OF DEGRADATION RATE CONSTANTS IN AQUIFER MATERIALS USING CARBON-14 CHLORINATED ETHENES [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:17:12 GMT

Freedman, D.L., A. Rivera-Cruz, O.D. Groshans, and J.T. Wilson.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 45(4):101-112(2025)

A study evaluated the use of ¹⁴C assay to measure the rate constants for the degradation of chlorinated ethenes in contaminated aquifers using soil and groundwater samples from three sites. Use of ¹⁴C-labeled compounds makes it possible to quantify degradation by measuring the accumulation of degradation products that are otherwise difficult to discern from background levels (14CO2 and 14C-labeled soluble compounds). The soil and groundwater samples were added to serum bottles; one set of the microcosms was incubated in the absence of oxygen, and another set in the presence of oxygen. After injecting purified ¹⁴C -PCE, ¹⁴C -TCE, or ¹⁴C-cDCE, unlabeled compounds were added to bring the initial concentrations to ~200-1,700?µg/L. The microcosms were placed on a tumbling device to ensure gentle agitation during incubation. At weekly intervals over 42?days, 5?mL liquid samples were withdrawn, filtered, and sparged to remove the unreacted 14C-labeled parent compound. The amounts of ¹⁴C products that accumulated were used to calculate pseudo-first-order rate constants that ranged from 0.0092 to 0.24/year. https://ngwa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gwmr.70021

SPATIALLY RESOLVED SOURCE APPORTIONMENT OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) WITHIN A POST-INDUSTRIAL RIVER CATCHMENT [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:09:47 GMT

Byrne, P., W.M. Mayes, A.L. James, S. Comber, E. Biles, A.L. Riley, P.L. Verplanck, and L. Bradley. ? Science of The Total Environment 1001:180502(2025)

A river catchment-scale approach was used to identify PFAS source zones and assess the relative importance of industrial PFAS sources in the River Mersey, UK, a post-industrial, densely populated catchment with diverse PFAS sources. Synoptic sampling and PFAS river load analysis identified key sub-catchments and river stretches contributing the majority of PFAS. The highest PFAS concentrations did not always correspond to the greatest loads. Most PFOS (64%), PFOA (49%), 6:2FTS (46%), and PFHxS (56%) were exported from the Upper Mersey sub-catchment, despite higher concentrations in northern sub-catchments, emphasizing the importance of load-based monitoring. Mass balance analysis of loads highlighted substantial inputs from specific river stretches, notably the Lower Irwell, River Tame, and Upper Mersey. While PFAS loads generally scaled with catchment area, yield (load/unit area) analysis identified disproportionately high exports from small headwater catchments, notably the upper River Roch (PFOA, PFHpA, and PFHxA) and Glaze Brook (PFBS). Industrial sources in the sub-catchments were confirmed using gadolinium anomaly analysis and consented discharge records. Gadolinium data suggested industrial discharges may contribute to PFAS occurrence at 62% of sample sites throughout the catchment. Findings demonstrate that spatial analysis of PFAS loads, rather than concentrations alone, is critical for identifying PFAS source areas.

PARABURKHOLDERIA XENOVORANS STRAIN LB400 SIGNIFICANTLY DECREASED VOLATILIZATION OF POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBS) FROM FRESHWATER AND SALINE SEDIMENTS [Research]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:09:25 GMT

Ramotowski, D.J., A. Martinez, R.F. Marek, K.C. Hornbuckle, T.E., and Mattes.
ACS ES&T Water 5(10):5841-5851(2025)

The potential to decrease the emissions of lower-chlorinated (LC)-PCBs (<3 chlorines) was assessed through bioaugmentation with aerobic PCB-degrading Paraburkholderia xenovorans strain LB400 in lab microcosms using historically PCB-contaminated sediments from a wastewater lagoon (Altavista, VA [AVL]) and an estuary (New Bedford Harbor, MA [NBH]). The impact of non-shaken vs shaken conditions was compared to airborne PCBs in LB400-bioaugmented AVL sediment (51% LC-PCBs) to better replicate field conditions. After 35 days, airborne LC-PCBs decreased by 54% in non-shaken bioaugmented AVL sediments, compared to a 60% decrease in shaken bioaugmented sediments. Bioaugmenting LB400 into unshaken NBH sediments (44% LC-PCBs) significantly decreased airborne LC-PCBs by 50% over 35 days. Biphenyl dioxygenase gene abundance decreased by several orders of magnitude after 16 days in all experiments, demonstrating a potential decrease in treatment effectiveness over time. Findings demonstrate that LB400 effectively degrades LC-PCBs with varying profiles over a range of environmentally relevant mixing scenarios. Further treatment delivery development has the potential to protect nearby communities from PCB exposure, decrease health risks, and improve quality of life.

A RESEARCH NOTE ON MIXED ORGANOCHLORINE PESTICIDE DEGRADATION: DDT AND ENDOSULPHAN IN COMPOST-AMENDED AEROBIC AND CYCLIC TREATMENTS [Demonstrations]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:09:02 GMT

Guerin, T.F. | Remediation 36(1):e70049(2025)

A rapid assessment pilot study evaluated the efficacy of low-cost, biologically based remediation strategies for organochlorine pesticide (OCP)-contaminated soil at a former agrochemical facility in regional New South Wales. Five treatment configurations were tested over 12 weeks, varying in compost amendment and aeration regimes, including cyclic aeration with and without compost, aerobic composting, passive aerobic treatment, and an abiotic control. Non-composted treatments with cyclic or passive aeration achieved the most substantial reductions in DDT concentrations, with decreases of up to 67%. Compost-amended treatments exhibited enhanced microbial activity but did not result in greater contaminant degradation. The study also documented co-occurring endosulfan, which showed partial reduction in several treatments despite low initial concentrations, highlighting the potential of simple, scalable bioremediation systems to address mixed OCP contamination. Limitations such as small-scale pile sizes, composite sampling, and short treatment duration may have influenced the outcomes. Future research should focus on longer-term trials, stratified sampling, and detailed microbial and metabolite analyses to optimize strategies for dual-contaminant remediation.

LEVERAGING TEMPORAL CSIA GROUNDWATER DATA AND AUTOMATED WORKFLOWS TO EVALUATE DEGRADATION BEHAVIOR AT DNAPL SITES [Demonstrations]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:08:35 GMT

Cheyne, C., J. Konzuk, L. D'Agostino, K. Kim, J. Stening, O. Bukhteeva, and B. Goodwin.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 45(4):51-73(2025)

A methodology is presented to evaluate natural and enhanced degradation behavior at complex DNAPL sites using automated processing of CSIA groundwater datasets developed over several years of sampling. The method utilized CSIA datasets from the Orica Botany Bay Facility in Matraville and a former chemical manufacturing facility in Victoria to gain qualitative and semi-quantitative insights into natural and enhanced attenuation processes. An automated workflow was developed to evaluate CSIA data trends to assess degradation mechanisms and rates, providing insight into contaminant attenuation progress across large, complex sites. Isotopic enrichment factors were estimated based on temporal groundwater concentration and CSIA data at individual well locations. The enrichment factors were evaluated alongside corresponding geological, microbial, and geochemical data to identify areas where attenuation plays a significant role in contaminant mass reduction. Interpreting the CSIA data was verified by comparing to enrichment factors in literature, assessing other evidence supporting degradation activity, and considering aspects of the site conceptual model that could affect isotopic behavior. By applying an automated workflow to CSIA datasets, findings demonstrate a valuable standardized approach to gain useful knowledge on the contribution of monitored natural attenuation and enhanced biodegradation to contaminant mass reduction at complex sites. The study also illustrates some complexities associated with DNAPL sites that should be considered when interpreting CSIA data.

FIELD DEPLOYMENT OF FRED-PFAS: A PORTABLE UNIT FOR MEASURING TOTAL PFAS IN THE FIELD [Demonstrations]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:08:20 GMT

Renaud-Young, M. ? RemTech 2025: Remediation Technologies Symposium, 15-17 October, Banff, Alberta, Canada, 22 slides, 2025

The FRED-PFAS onsite screening tool system utilizes a custom polymeric binding system that detects PFAS fluorocarbon chains by producing a high level of fluorescence that decreases in a dose-dependent manner when exposed to PFAS compounds. When combined with a modified SPE process, the system can reach ppt-level detection limits. It was demonstrated on multiple sample matrices, including AFFF rinsates, industrial wastewater, and groundwater. The sensor detects a wide range of PFAS compounds, performing best on analytes with 4 to 12 carbons. Strong signals are seen with EPA-6 analytes such as PFOA and PFOS. The sensor was tested on a wide variety of potential interferences, showing strong selectivity, and found some issues with high ppm metals and detergent concentrations. The presentation highlights the technical system validation, including an in-field pilot conducted at an AFFF facility where the system was compared to third-party analytical lab data. Strong correlation of system results to analytical methods was seen across samples. Performance data includes correlation data against methods such as EPA 1633 and TOF (R² > 0.9). Case study results are presented that demonstrate the benefits of implementing onsite PFAS monitoring in an investigation/remedial application, with a focus on increased operational efficiency and projected long-term value for implementing such a monitoring system.

Slides: https://esaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MARGARET-RENAUD-YOUNG.pdf

Longer abstract: https://esaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RT2025-program-Abstracts_20.pdf

FIRST BIOREACTOR PILOT STUDY OF IN SITU BIOGEOCHEMICAL TRANSFORMATION IN CHINA FOR REMEDIATION OF CHLORINATED ETHENES CONTAMINATED GROUNDWATER AND ITS MICROBIAL INSIGHTS [Demonstrations]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:07:44 GMT

Ding, W., H. Zhang, X. Ren, and H. Shan.
Journal of Water Process Engineering 81:109228(2026)

In situ biogeochemical transformation (ISBGT), consisting of a reaction pit filled with remedial amendments coupled with recirculation pipelines to increase hydraulic retention time and sustain favorable geochemical conditions, was implemented at a chlorinated ethene- contaminated site. Over 180 days, PCE and TCE declined by 98% with limited cis-DCE and VC accumulation, suggesting near-complete dechlorination. ISBGT operation led to a substantial drop in redox potential (-50 to -420 mV), creating reducing conditions favorable for iron and sulfur cycling. Metagenomic analysis revealed a temporal shift in functional potential, beginning with carbohydrate hydrolysis, followed by enhanced protein fermentation and acetate/H2 generation. Genes associated with redox iron and sulfur cycling, including mtrCDE and pilABC, increased notably. These processes facilitated the formation of biogenic iron sulfide (Fe-S) minerals, which likely played a central role in the abiotic reduction of PCE and TCE. ISBGT created a geochemically favorable environment where microbial metabolism continuously regenerated reactive Fe-S minerals, enabling sustained and synergistic CVOC degradation under highly reducing conditions. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214714425023013/pdfft?casa_token=wnwU2b0IXrcAAAAA:Ou8KqKFgvKHKUGRrTdYrHcOAPdtvFtGAbU4pytaXozt5jyVFTjx4rtvs9Qmv4bSWV52VZDcNVg&md5=89678c7dce76cc34ffaf349ea60d54e1&pid=1-s2.0-S2214714425023013-main.pdf

FLUX BASED STRATEGY FOR PFAS ASSESSMENT AND REMEDIATION [Cleanup News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:07:21 GMT

Munsey, K. | Northwest Remediation Conference, 20 October, Tacoma, WA, 25 slides, 2025

This presentation describes a flux-based strategy to assess and remediate PFAS-impacted groundwater, emphasizing how mass flux measurements and targeted in situ treatment can improve remedial effectiveness. The case studies demonstrate the approach at bench and field scales. In a controlled column study, groundwater amended with increasing doses of colloidal activated carbon (CAC) showed progressively greater PFAS removal, confirming CAC's strong sorptive capacity and illustrating how dosage can be optimized to meet site-specific treatment goals. Building on these results, a case study applied flux-based characterization to design and install a permeable reactive barrier at a PFAS-impacted site associated with historical firefighting foam use. Passive flux measurements were used to identify dominant contaminant pathways and inform barrier placement and amendment dosing. Following CAC injection across the barrier, monitoring data indicated substantial reductions in PFAS mass flux and downgradient concentrations, validating both the material selection and the flux-guided design. Collectively, the case studies show that integrating mass-flux characterization with CAC-based in situ remediation provides a practical, scalable framework for controlling PFAS plumes and improving long-term remedial performance. https://nwremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/A3_Munsey.pdf

LONG TERM REBOUND AND TRANSPORT OF PERFLUORINATED SULFONIC ACIDS (PFSAS) IN THE VADOSE ZONE FOLLOWING FLUSHING [Cleanup News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:06:52 GMT

Schaefer, C.E., G.M. Lavorgna, D.R. Lippincott, S. Hao, J. Conrad Pritchard, and C.P. Higgins.
Journal of Contaminant Hydrology 277:104848(2026)

Increases in PFSA porewater concentrations over 35 months following in situ flushing were monitored at an AFFF site using porous cup suction lysimeters within a highly instrumented test cell. Results provided evidence that PFOS slow desorption kinetics contributed to slow contaminant rebound in measured porewater concentrations. PFSAs in the shallow (0.23 m depth) highly PFSA-impacted soil migrated downward during the monitored post-flushing period, with short-chained PFSAs migrating more rapidly in porewater than long-chained PFSAs. Following flushing, apparent equilibrium porewater concentrations at a depth of 0.61 m bgs were attained within two months for PFPeS, between 2 and 20 months for PFHxS, and 25 months for PFOS. For PFPeS and PFHxS, apparent steady state rebound concentrations (to 38% of their pre-flushing baseline levels, with no increasing or decreasing trend over time subsequently observed) were reasonably predicted based on an equilibrium model. PFOS rebound and ultimately vertical migration were highly impacted by non-equilibrium soil desorption. Excavation of elevated PFSAs in surface soil had no impact on PFSA porewater concentrations 0.38 m below the excavation over a 1.2-year post-excavation monitoring period. Long-term rebound data highlight the potential importance of mass transfer-controlled processes for PFOS leaching, and suggest that removal of elevated PFSAs in surface soil may take years until PFSA discharges to groundwater are diminished. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169772226000094/pdfft?casa_token=oxaBnTqjcx0AAAAA:FRFk8EnVgM1e3UAXWzr32pMgwpfk00pRZgRzufnrp-7AN9RfreQ4p1X4qeqbLyKAgXOTHWgkKg&md5=f0c83bce2c30139de36b9f8c1cd3e8da&pid=1-s2.0-S0169772226000094-main.pdf

IN SITU MONITORING OF LNAPL-CONTAMINATED AQUIFER REMEDIATION USING ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT-INDUCED FLUORESCENCE IMAGING [Cleanup News]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:06:22 GMT

Bewi, R., A. Rodriguez de Castro, and O. Atteia.
Journal of Hazardous Materials 501:140841(2026)

A project proposed and validated an innovative implementation of an in situ monitoring technique for LNAPL remediation treatments, based on ultraviolet light-induced fluorescence imaging (UVIF) combined with automated image post-treatment, to enable in situ and real-time monitoring of decontamination processes. A mini-camera integrated into a set of transparent wells embedded in the subsurface of LNAPL-contaminated zones was used to monitor a surfactant injection remediation process and a skimming operation involving groundwater drawdown. The technique was first calibrated and validated through lab and pilot-scale experiments, then used at a diesel-contaminated site. The pilot test revealed differences of <5% between recovery factors obtained via gas chromatography of soil samples and those measured with the proposed imaging technique. Site-specific calibration correlated fluorescence intensity from endoscopic images in transparent tubes with GC-analyzed LNAPL content, showing a strong correlation and relative errors below 10%. This enabled accurate in situ estimation of LNAPL variations: content remained mostly unchanged without treatment, decreased moderately during pumping and skimming, and dropped substantially during surfactant injection. The capability supports immediate treatment adjustments, thereby optimizing contaminant recovery rates. Results demonstrate that UVIF can effectively guide remediation operations by providing rapid feedback on contaminant removal dynamics. This near real-time capability enables optimization of treatment parameters, such as surfactant dosage, injection timing, or pumping duration, thereby improving hydrocarbon recovery efficiency. UVIF offers an alternative to conventional drilling-based methods, while improving measurement reproducibility and eliminating the need for destructive sampling. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389425037628/pdfft?md5=d149b96654aec43eca56fa4b224c9d30&pid=1-s2.0-S0304389425037628-main.pdf

LIBBY ASBESTOS SUPERFUND SITE RESPONSIBLE PARTY OVERSIGHT, PROPOSED PLAN, RECORD OF DECISION (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:05:57 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Northwestern Engineer Division, Omaha District, NE
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W9128F26RA045, 2026

This is a full and open competition under NAICS code 562910. USACE Omaha District seeks a contractor to provide Responsible Party Oversight, oversight of the Feasibility Study (FS) process, and potentially prepare a Proposed Plan (PP) and ROD to document the remedy selection process for OU3 at the Libby Superfund Site in Libby, Montana. Oversight of the FS process will include project management, planning, reporting, and technical support to independently evaluate PRP-led technology screening, alternatives analysis, and overall FS completeness and consistency with the Libby sitewide FS format. Oversight will ensure integration of prior agreements, workshop outcomes, risk management, health and safety requirements, cost estimating, and relevant historical data and interagency inputs. Oversight of the FS process will also encompass coordination and facilitation of an iterative interagency review and comment process, including workshops to resolve comments with EPA and participating agencies. If the option to prepare a PP and ROD is exercised, the work will include documenting remedy selection for OU3 in accordance with EPA guidance. The work will support EPA's CERCLA and NCP public participation requirements, including development of outreach materials, facilitation of public meetings, and preparation of public comment responses and the responsiveness summary. Offers are due by 12:00 PM CST on February 23, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/35bd8d4b96e8468e8cb36e617f3d348b/view

FORMALLY UTILIZED SITES REMEDIAL ACTION PROGRAM (FUSRAP) SHALLOW LAND DISPOSAL AREA (SLDA) REMEDIATION PROJECT (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:05:02 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Great Lakes and Ohio Engineer Division, Buffalo District, Buffalo, NY
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912P426RA003, 2026

This is a full and open competition under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, seeks a contractor for a C-type hybrid contract containing both cost-reimbursable and firm-fixed-price line items to provide remediation services for the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program (FUSRAP) Shallow Land Disposal Area (SLDA) Remediation Project. This project addresses environmental remediation needs at the SLDA Site in accordance with the approved Record of Decision and is critical to ensure the safety of site workers, the public, and the surrounding ecosystem. The selected contractor will furnish all labor, equipment, materials, and technical services required to support site mobilization, infrastructure upgrades, excavation and off-site disposal of contaminated soil and debris, operation of on-site laboratories and water treatment systems, environmental and health physics monitoring, confirmation sampling, site restoration, and demobilization, and will provide ongoing technical support to USACE using the established hazardous, toxic, and radioactive waste remedial action work breakdown structure. Offers are due by 1:00 PM EDT on March 13, 2026. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/94b65632e845413c92f31eff5ab3b1b1/view

CONSTRUCT REPOSITORY COVER TO SUPPORT THE CALLAHAN MINE SUPERFUND SITE IN BROOKSVILLE, MAINE (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:04:38 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic Engineer Division, New England District, Concord, MA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912WJ26BA008, 2026

This is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requires a contractor to construct a repository cover to support the Callahan Mine Superfund Site in Brooksville, Maine. The general scope of work for the proposed contract involves installing a composite cap over an area of ~13 acres. The purpose of the cap is to limit infiltration through mine waste remaining after historical copper mine operations performed on the property. The mine waste consists of rock and rock-amended sediment previously consolidated and graded as part of recent and ongoing Superfund remediation activities. The expected components of the composite cap include (in order from the surface): 12 inches crushed stone (3-inch minus), geocomposite drainage layer, 60-mil textured geomembrane (seam welded), and geofabric. Other activities to be performed under this contract may include installation of drainage features (e.g., swales, culverts, etc.), grading, seeding and stabilization of disturbed areas outside the stone cover system, stockpile management, and wetland improvements. Offers are due by 1:00 PM EST on March 2, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/a5545aae062343d7a1d7b391dd6a5156/view

ANNETTE ISLAND, AK REMEDIAL INVESTIGATION (RI) AND REMEDIAL ACTION (RA) FOR SITE 51 AND 53 (SRCSGT) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:04:17 GMT

U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, 697DCK Regional Acquisitions Services, Fort Worth, TX
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov 697DCK-26-R-00129, 2026

This is a sources sought notice for marketing research purposes only. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) seeks responses from SBA-certified 8(a) small disadvantaged businesses with relevant experience to assess the market interest in advance of a future solicitation under NAICS code 562910. Work includes performing remedial investigations and remedial actions at the FAA Storage Yard and Former Housing Area at the former FAA Station on the Annette Island Reserve in Alaska. The work will be conducted in a remote environment under the authority of the Metlakatla Indian Community (MIC). It will require demonstrated experience working with MIC Environmental Council regulations and local permitting requirements. The project includes investigation and remediation of petroleum, lead, PCBs, and asbestos in soil and groundwater; vegetation clearing and excavation; groundwater well installation; waste management; and extensive logistical planning due to limited transportation, communications, and laboratory access. Field activities are anticipated for the Spring/Summer 2026 season. Capability statements are due by 12:00 PM on February 9, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/7e79e2e66fff451fbdba8825a6ff0106/view

PFAS IN THE ENVIRONMENT: OCCURRENCE, CHARACTERIZATION, TREATMENT, AND MANAGEMENT [General News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:22:40 GMT

Surampalli, R.Y., T.C. Zhang, B.M. Al-Hashimi, C.-M. Kao, M.M. Ghangrekar, P. Bhunia, and S. Das. John Wiley & Sons, Print ISBN:9781394343904, Online ISBN:9781394343935, 493 pp, 2025

This book provides a comprehensive summary of the chemical and ecotoxicological properties of different types of PFAS, current and emerging detection methods, known and suspected health risks, and removal technologies from water and soil. It considers the recently enacted and much stricter regulations set by EPA and its European counterpart on the production and use of PFAS. A special focus is placed on how water treatment plants may be upgraded to reduce PFAS content in drinking water. Key topics covered include:

Occurrence, distribution, fate/transport, and behavior of PFAS.

Climate change threats posed by PFAS.

Case studies detailing cutting-edge research and remediation of PFAS.

Global regulations of PFAS.

Strategies to phase out PFAS from industrial and consumer products and ultimately achieve a PFAS-free environment.

QUANTIFYING NATURAL NAPL ATTENUATION: PRACTICAL TOOLS TO SUPPORT REMEDY TRANSITION [General News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:22:10 GMT

Jourabchi, P. and M. Lahvis. ? RemTech 2025: Remediation Technologies Symposium, 15-17 October, Banff, Alberta, Canada, 28 slides, 2025

Practical tools for quantifying natural attenuation (including NSZD) of NAPL in the subsurface, supporting transitions to nature-based remedies, are highlighted in this presentation. The presentation draws from recent guidance, applied research, and publications to emphasize how quantitative tools can inform remedy decisions and demonstrate risk reduction. Recent advances in digital tools now allow more efficient use of existing site data to estimate both bulk NAPL degradation and chemical-specific attenuation rates, improving alignment with risk-based site objectives. The presentation also discusses how these tools can help distinguish between general depletion processes and those targeting specific COCs, offering greater flexibility in remediation planning. Updates to the soil gas gradient method, including refinements in interpretation and new supporting publications, are also highlighted. The developments are increasing confidence in NSZD estimates and expanding the applicability of the method under a broader range of site conditions. Linking NSZD metrics with conceptual site model refinement and long-term performance tracking can help better evaluate remedy transition thresholds and communicate defensible progress toward closure.

Slides: https://esaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/PARISA-JOURABCHI.pdf

Longer Abstract: https://esaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RT2025-program-Abstracts_38.pdf

FIBER-OPTIC DISTRIBUTED TEMPERATURE SENSING (FO-DTS) TECHNOLOGY FOR GROUNDWATER-TO-SURFACE WATER INTERFACE INVESTIGATIONS [General News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:21:56 GMT

NAVFAC Fact Sheet, 4 pp, 2025

Groundwater plumes discharging as "seeps" into streams, wetlands, or coastal waters can transport pollutants; however, these discharge points are often preferentially distributed and can be overlooked by traditional site investigation methods. Recent research has focused on the development of improved tools to locate and delineate groundwater seeps. This fact sheet discusses one advanced tool, FO-DTS, which is a direct-contact technology that shows promise in improving site investigations. FO-DTS uses a fiber-optic cable as a continuous thermal sensor to pinpoint active discharge zones along the cable by detecting subtle temperature differences between groundwater and surface water. This fact sheet highlights the capabilities of the FO-DTS technology and monitoring results from two Navy case study sites. https://www.clu-in.org/NAVFAC-FOTDS

PFAS - PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES SORPTION-BASED TECHNOLOGIES FOR SEPARATION AND CONCENTRATION OF PFAS FROM WATER [General News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:21:42 GMT

Interstate Technology Regulatory Council, Section 18 of PFAS Guidance, 2026

The purpose of this section is to collate and summarize the current state of knowledge and practice for PFAS removal from water by sorption-based technologies and provide a resource to help regulators, consultants, and industry practitioners navigate the decision-making process. Topics addressed include treatment objectives, characteristics of commonly treated waters, potential site-specific considerations, operation and testing of fixed-bed and fractionation-based treatment technologies, resources for decision-making, and outstanding challenges for treatment implementation. https://pfas-1.itrcweb.org/18-pfas-sorption-based-technologies-guidance/

U.S. EPA COUNTS PER MINUTE (CPM) FOR SUPERFUND ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR [General News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:21:26 GMT

U.S. EPA COUNTS PER MINUTE (CPM) FOR SUPERFUND ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR
U.S. EPA, 2025

EPA developed the CPM electronic calculator to help risk assessors, RPMs, and others involved with risk assessment and decision-making at radioactively contaminated sites. The CPM electronic calculator provides a method for correlating real-time survey results, which are often expressed as counts per minute, to contaminant concentrations that are more typically expressed in pCi/g or pCi/m², at Superfund sites (those regulated under CERCLA). The CPM calculator intends to facilitate more real-time measurements within a Superfund response framework. The CPM calculator may also standardize the process of converting lab data to real-time measurements. It will thus lessen the amount of lab sampling that is needed for site characterization and confirmation surveys, but it will not remove the need for sampling. https://epa-cpm.ornl.gov/index.html

MYCORRHIZED LYGEUM SPARTUM IS EFFECTIVE FOR THE ECO-RESTORATION AND PHYTOREMEDIATION OF METAL-CONTAMINATED SOILS IN ARID LANDSCAPES [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:21:03 GMT

Terwayet Bayouli, I., R.A. Root, H. Terwayet Bayouli, E. Meers, M. Di Bonito, J. Zhou, and J. Chorover. | Environmental Research 286(Part 1):122752(2025)

A study evaluated the effectiveness of mycorrhiza-amended xeric plant species Lygeum spartum in coping with arid conditions to phytoremediate and ecologically restore degraded and contaminated land. A 6-month controlled pot experiment was conducted to assess leaf length, enzymatic activities, and secondary metabolites. The fate of toxic metals and metalloids (TMMs) was evaluated using translocation factor (TF), bioaccumulation factor (BF), and removal efficiency (RE). Fungal inoculation positively impacted growth, increasing leaf size by 64.6% and enhancing chlorophyll content - Chl a (0.73 mg/g DW) and Chl b (0.64 mg/g DW). Root uptake of Cd, Ni, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, and Pb was significantly enhanced in mycorrhizal plants (p < 0.05), and inoculation improved translocation of Zn, Cr, and Co, with TF(Zn) = 1.67, TF(Cr) = 1.11, and TF(Co) = 1.05, respectively. Secondary metabolites included flavonoids, total phenols, glutathion-S-transferase, carotenoids, and antioxidants such as peroxidase (4.25 µmol/min/mg proteins), ascorbate peroxidase (2.14 µmol/min/mg proteins and superoxide dismutase (17.04 66 U/mg protein). However, no improvement was observed in catalase activity or free radical scavenging potential.

SCENARIO-SPECIFIC ATTENUATION FACTORS FOR VAPOR INTRUSION SCREENING [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:20:50 GMT

Lahvis, M.A., R.A. Ettinger, R. Abbasi, and W.R. Jones.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 45(4):87-100(2025)

A comprehensive study was undertaken to derive attenuation factors (AFs) for vapor intrusion (VI) screening that are more applicable to variable site conditions than the generic default AF of 0.03 recommended by EPA. The study involved developing an empirical AF database consisting of >26,000 paired measurements of indoor air (C_IA) and subsurface (C_SSG) vapor concentration data for 37 chemicals at 1,541 buildings, 330 sites, and 32 states across the U.S. After extensive filtering to exclude low-quality data and limit potential effects from background sources, the database was reduced to 1,474 TCE and PCE C_IA and C_SSG data pairs from 271 buildings, 86 sites, and 15 states. Building-specific AFs were used to address the bias and ambiguity caused by buildings with large numbers of C_IA and C_SSG data pairs. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA) performed on the filtered database indicated that the most significant variables affecting building-specific AFs were subsurface sample type (i.e., subslab versus near-slab soil gas), building type, US Climate Zone, building construction date, and building foundation type. Scenario-specific 95th percentile AFs defined for particular combinations of these variables varied by over an order of magnitude and were up to 10× less than 0.03. The 95th percentile AFs were broadly supported by reliability analyses, AF versus C_SSG trend evaluations, and an AF analysis of radon data, and were consistent with values derived in prior empirical AF studies. Some of the less significant variables were time and lateral distance between C_IA and C_SSG sampling (P-values of 0.0008 and 0.002, respectively). The AFs can be used to improve VI screening for a range of building, sampling, and geographic conditions and help focus resources toward sites posing the greatest potential risk. https://ngwa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gwmr.70012

REMOVAL OF PAHS FROM LARGE-SCALE CONTAMINATED SOIL IN A BIOAUGMENTED SLURRY REMEDIATION SYSTEM: OPTIMAL CONDITIONS VERIFICATION, ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETER MONITORING, AND MICROBIAL COMMUNITY ANALYSIS [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:20:35 GMT

Wang, F., J. Chen, X. Xiao, X. Wang, and S. Chen.
Bioresource Technology 439:133377(2025)

PAH removal was enhanced through a combination of bioaugmentation, condition optimization, and the addition of nitrogen sources and surfactants. A fully functional bioaugmented slurry remediation system was constructed to provide a device template for PAH-contaminated site remediation. The study investigated the effects of peptone or Tween-80 addition on PAH removal by NS4 in the system. Tween-80 addition under optimal conditions achieved a higher PAH removal efficiency than optimal conditions (with or without peptone addition). System monitoring showed that microbial growth, metabolism, and PAH biodegradation collectively reduced DO and pH while increasing EC. Monitoring these parameters can indirectly reflect microbial activity and PAH removal progress, offering new insights for onsite supervision of PAH remediation. Soil microbial communities differed significantly across environmental conditions. Environmental conditions and remediation time jointly influenced microbial community and functional succession, with environmental conditions exerting a stronger driving force. Network analysis identified 42 microbial OTUs and 16 PAH-degradation genes as key factors, revealing close interactions between soil microorganisms and PAH-degradation genes.

USING BIOCHAR IN STATIC AND DYNAMIC FLOW SYSTEMS TO REMEDIATE PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES FROM CONTAMINATED STORMWATER RUNOFF [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:20:16 GMT

Celma, A., A. Skrobonja, S.G. Khokarale, J.-P. Mikkola, E. Sormo, G. Cornelissen, K. Wiberg, and L. Ahrens. Remediation 36(1):e70041(2025)

A study assessed the potential mitigation of PFAS using biochar adsorption as a green alternative to coal-based sorbents for PFAS-polluted stormwater systems. Thirteen biochar materials originating from diverse feedstocks and intended for commercial and research purposes were initially screened for PFAS remediation capabilities in static flow systems. Experiments pointed to biochar sorption as a promising strategy for PFAS remediation, with some materials showing removal efficiencies of ~99% after 7 days of exposure. Though not all the biochar materials tested performed equally, differences could be observed. Five biochar materials were then studied under constant-flow column experiments for 69 days using real stormwater spiked with PFAS. Results showed that vast differences were observed for the retention rates of the tested PFAS contaminants, with estimated bed volumes for an 80% breakthrough ranging from 13 to 60 for perfluorobutanesulfonic acid and from 4 to 53 for perfluoropentanoic acid, for example. Static and dynamic flow experiments highlighted that long-chain PFAS showed stronger sorption onto the biochar surface than short-chain PFAS; however, no relevant impact could be identified in terms of the PFAS functional group. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/rem.70041

IN SITU CHEMICAL OXIDATION OF NONIONIC ORGANIC CONTAMINANTS: THE EFFECT OF SOIL ORGANIC MATTER AND MINERALS ON STOICHIOMETRIC EFFICIENCY [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:19:56 GMT

Salazar, J.S., T.K. Kim, and D.L. Sedlak. (2025).
Environmental Science & Technology 59(42):22940-22949(2025)

The stoichiometric efficiency (i.e., moles contaminant transformed/mole SO₄^•-) was measured for a homologous series of chlorinated benzenes using solid-to-water ratios approaching subsurface conditions to determine the potential of solids to protect contaminants from oxidation. Sorption to inorganic surfaces reduced the stoichiometric efficiency by 3 orders of magnitude relative to contaminants in solution. At low initial oxidant concentrations (i.e., 10 mM), adsorbed contaminants were oxidized after desorbing to reestablish equilibrium. At higher oxidant concentrations (i.e., 500 mM), contaminant loss was attributable to SO₄^•- that reacted at the particle surface. Absorption by particulate organic matter (i.e., Pahokee peat) offered greater protection. For the most hydrophobic compounds (tetra-, penta-, and hexachlorobenzene), 1.5% organic matter by mass reduced the stoichiometric efficiency by an additional order of magnitude. The effect of sorption on the efficacy of persulfate ISCO can be predicted using contaminant hydrophobicity (K_ow), persulfate dosage, and particulate organic matter content.

MONITORING OF IN SITU REMEDIATION TECHNOLOGIES WITH SIP [Research]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:19:41 GMT

Emerson, H., J. Thomle, Z. Vincent, J. Robinson, J. Torgeson, K. Peshtani, N. Qafoku, J. Szecsody, J., F. Day-Lewis, and L. Slater. PNNL Report PNNL-36585, 41 pp, 2024

This project aimed to elucidate the sensitivity of spectral induced polarization (SIP) to specific geochemical reactions occurring during subsurface remediation based on their impact on polarization of minerals and their surfaces. The document outlines progress for fiscal year 2024 toward validating SIP for monitoring specific reactions related to remediation at lab-scale. The work aims to advance the technology to field-scale for monitoring of amendment delivery and subsequent reactivity for subsurface remediation. An interdisciplinary critical review team reviewed historical SIP data collected under the Deep Vadose Zone program. Based on feedback from the team, additional experiments were designed and initiated for the calcium citrate phosphate technology for in situ formation of apatite. Additional analysis was conducted with data from sulfur-modified iron experiments to consider the potential for scaling monitoring with SIP in the field. Preliminary results showed a significant decrease in SIP response due to apatite formation in 1D column experiments. Synthetic field data were generated on 2 m×2 m×2 m blocks placed 1 m and 2.5 m below the ground surface, based on previous lab-scale experiments. Results showed that changes in SIP response due to the delivery of sulfur-modified iron could be measurable at specific frequencies in the field. The team outlined a proposed framework for future evaluation of SIP for environmental remediation monitoring based on two broad knowledge gaps in the fundamental understanding of SIP and moving SIP from lab to field-scale to monitor delivery and reactivity of amendments. For the first knowledge gap, the scope outlined included well-characterized microfluidics experiments to interpret and model SIP responses based on different geochemical reactions and processes. For the second knowledge gap, additional 1D and 2D experiments spanning up to intermediate scale (cm to m) were recommended to consider the impact of subsurface heterogeneity and amendment delivery on SIP response. https://www.pnnl.gov/main/publications/external/technical_reports/PNNL-36585.pdf

FIELD-SCALE QPCR DATA TO ESTIMATE RATE CONSTANTS FOR TOLUENE BIODEGRADATION IN GROUNDWATER [Demonstrations]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:19:26 GMT

Pilloni, G., J. Wilson, S. Rosolina, B. Oyston, D. Taggart, and T.A. Key.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 45(4):42-50(2025)

An approach was developed to estimate an apparent first-order rate constant for anaerobic biodegradation of toluene based on toluene concentration and the abundance of the alpha subunit of the benzylsuccinate synthase gene (bssA). The utility of the approach was evaluated by comparing the distribution of estimated rate constants to those from a published compilation at benchmark sites. There was good agreement between the distribution of rate constants calculated from the abundance of gene copies from soil cores and the distribution of rate constants at benchmark sites, while rate constants calculated from the abundance of gene copies in groundwater were lower than those from benchmark sites. Given that groundwater samples are more common and convenient to obtain, it is proposed to use the rate constants estimated from groundwater samples to document whether the microbial community has acclimated to toluene biodegradation. Models to evaluate risk at petroleum release sites often assume a "typical" biodegradation rate constant. If the abundance of the bssA biomarker demonstrates that the microbial community has acclimated, then it is appropriate to select and use a rate constant from benchmark sites to forecast biodegradation and attenuation of toluene at a site being evaluated. https://ngwa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gwmr.70011

WIRELINE TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT OF NATURAL SOURCE ZONE DEPLETION ENHANCED BY ENGINEERED REMEDIATION [Demonstrations]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:19:09 GMT

Stumpf, P., R. Kannappan, L. Klinchuch, and N. Sihota.
Groundwater Monitoring & Remediation 45(4):32-41(2025)

Work compared rates of engineered source zone depletion (ESZD) and natural source zone depletion (NSZD) for a deep aquifer using wireline temperature measurements. Heat released during biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons was detected by measuring a continuous vertical profile of the subsurface temperature using a wireline logging tool to depths ranging up to 120?m bgs. The temperature profiles were converted to heat fluxes to estimate ESZD and NSZD rates. The field demonstration identified two distinct biodegradation zones: a shallow zone resulting from diffusion of atmospheric oxygen into the subsurface and a deep zone created by the engineered addition of oxygen through bioventing and air sparging. Initial NSZD rates for the shallow zone ranged from 970 to 9400 L/ha/yr while the engineered systems were in operation. Initial ESZD rates for the deep zone ranged from 3200 to 5500?L/ha/yr. After shutting down the remediation systems, the deep zone ESZD rate decreased by ~70% over 7?months in one well. Overall, shallow NSZD rates measured at the site are consistent with rates reported in the cited literature and exceeded or were equal to deep ESZD rates from engineered remediation. Advantages of wireline thermal profiling include the ability to utilize existing wells without sacrificing the well for other purposes; record real-time continuous temperature profiles with better resolution over significant depth; directly measure the temperature peak for calculating heat flux and degradation rate; and repeat temperature monitoring to provide temporal changes in the remediation life cycle.

PFAS TREATMENT WITH ERADIFLUOR™: AN INNOVATIVE DESTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY [Demonstrations]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:18:52 GMT

Xiong, J. ? 27th California Unified Program Annual Training Conference, 24-27 March, Anaheim, CA, 48 slides, 2025

A field test was conducted at a U.S. naval installation on the Eastern Seaboard to demonstrate the use of EradiFluor, a PFAS destruction technology. The system operates under ambient pressure and temperature as it relies on ultraviolet light and common chemicals to destroy PFAS. The technology was used to treat a concentrated waste produced from an in situ foam fractionation system to remediate PFAS-contaminated groundwater. Multiple PFAS chemicals in varying concentrations were detected in a sample of the concentrated waste, the foam fractionate. To define success for the field test, clear performance objectives for decreases in PFAS concentration, defluorination, and cost and energy savings were established. Results of samples collected before, during, and after treatment showed successful treatment of the foam fractionate waste. https://calcupa.org/CMS15/upload-manager/presentations/CUPA-2025/9111-34288-pfas_th-f1_eradifluor_xiong_final.pdf

HIGH-ENERGY IN-SITU INJECTION OF A MODIFIED CLAY FOR SEQUESTRATION OF PFAS [Demonstrations]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:18:38 GMT

Pizzaro, D. and P. O'Neill. ? PFAS Forum V, 9-11 April, Orlando, FL, 25 minutes, 2025

Overburden injection of the organically modified clay (MC) FluoroSorb® for the remediation of PFAS has been demonstrated on several pilot programs using direct push technology (DPT) and high-solids slurry batching and injection equipment. Field deployments of MC were conducted in demonstration projects in Kentucky, California, and Alberta, Canada, to prove the injectability and performance of the technology in source (grid) and plume bisection (PRB) deployments. The demonstrations verified the injectability and distribution of the MC as effective in numerous geologies and site implementations. Various MC slurry designs were tested in Kentucky, examining increasingly dense and higher solids mixes to mimic site situations where significant product mass would be matched to significant PFAS mass. The slurry designs and specifications are discussed from bench-scale evaluation to field deployment, along with lessons learned from varying the ratios of product and carrier fluid (water). At the California site, the MC was co-injected with calcium polysulfide to treat PFAS and hexavalent chromium, proving slurry design flexibility and compatibility. In Alberta, MC was installed as a PRB and then monitored for over a year with a continued PFAS source upgradient. The presentation discusses the performance and longevity of this installation, including groundwater monitoring data and post-injection soil core evaluation of product distribution in situ using a newly developed MC dye test. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eslD70f3R-s&list=PLYW8x4mEadkvXQ-ttPfXaadoPU5Sv_Wvs&index=14

USING NATIONAL LAND COVER DATABASE AS AN INDICATOR OF SUCCESSFUL REMEDIATION: THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S ROCKY FLATS (COLORADO) AS A CASE STUDY [Cleanup News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:18:19 GMT

Burger J., M. Gochfeld, K.G. Brown, M. Cortes, K. Ng, and D.S. Kosson.
Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A 89(1):1-17(2026)

A project examined the % ecological resources remaining on Rocky Flats (RF) following completion of cleanup, compared the ecological resources (i.e., plant cover) of RF with the surrounding 10-km and 30-km bands of land, and measured % natural vegetation on RF with comparable % on three other large DOE facilities that are still undergoing remediation. The project aimed to examine the implications of ecological protection of climax vegetation and the importance of consistently examining regional ecologies. Rocky Flats contains significantly more grassland than the surrounding region, with less development, and is mostly a National Wildlife Refuge open to the public. Agriculture and grazing do not occur on RF. The three sites undergoing remediation have significantly more natural habitat (climax vegetation) than their surrounding buffer areas.

PERMEABLE REACTIVE BARRIERS IN A RESIDENTIAL SETTING [Cleanup News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:18:03 GMT

Whitehouse, L., D. Kubow, and W. Caldicott. | AEHS Foundation 41st Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy 20-23 October, Amherst, MA, 16 slides, 2025

In the late 1990s, large-scale remediation of petroleum-impacted soil and groundwater was conducted, including soil vapor extraction and air sparge systems at an active service station located upgradient of multiple residential properties. Recent utility work identified petroleum-impacted soil/groundwater 600 ft downgradient of the service station and immediately adjacent to residential properties. Subsequent characterization identified residual petroleum impacts along the roadway and downgradient residential properties. Additionally, a manmade swale constructed within a downgradient wetland was receiving petroleum-impacted groundwater from footing drains surrounding a residential dwelling. Initial response activities included the excavation of impacted sediment within the wetlands, installation of a collection sump for footing-drain discharge water, and the implementation of a P&T system that treated impacted groundwater and discharged it back to the wetlands. Based on the absence of a long-term available power source for the treatment system, a purpose-built solar array was installed. Six permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) were injected across two residential properties to mitigate petroleum-impacted groundwater at the front of the contaminant plume. A carbon-based slurry was injected in 2-ft vertical intervals on a triangular grid spacing of 4-5 ft through 134 injection points over a ~3,000 ft² area. A total of 5,590 gallons of the carbon-based slurry was injected into the subsurface over 17 days. The presentation highlights the iterative approach and challenges associated with utility corridors and varying geological conditions to address sensitive receptors and protect human health. https://s3.amazonaws.com/amz.xcdsystem.com/A51108D5-FA2F-2B6D-01D92AC0F42DCE3B_abstract_File26129/PDFofPresentation_161_1019075845.pdf

ENHANCED HYDROCARBON BIODEGRADATION VIA SOIL VAPOR EXTRACTION SYSTEM OPERATION [Cleanup News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:17:49 GMT

Kulkarni, P.R., T.M. McHugh, J.S. Cook, A. Farnell, C. Bruce, and B. Bealer.
Remediation Journal 36(1):e70050(2025)

Long-term monitoring data from the extracted vapor of six soil vapor extraction (SVE) systems were evaluated to quantify hydrocarbon removal via direct hydrocarbon extraction, aerobic biodegradation, and anaerobic biodegradation. Aerobic biodegradation rates were calculated from the magnitude of oxygen depletion and carbon dioxide enrichment in the extracted vapor. In contrast, anaerobic rates were estimated from methane enrichment when data were available. Results reveal that aerobic biodegradation may account for 39% to 86% of the total mass removed, often exceeding the magnitude of direct hydrocarbon removal. Methanogenesis, a natural process likely not enhanced by SVE operations, contributed 5% to 31% of total biodegradation at some sites with operating SVE systems, highlighting the significance of natural attenuation. Findings underscore the importance of quantifying biodegradation as part of total hydrocarbon removal at sites with active SVE systems, providing insights for refining site management strategies.

IN SITU STABILIZATION AND SOLIDIFICATION OF A FORMER MANUFACTURED GAS PLANT [Cleanup News]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:17:31 GMT

Foss, D. Northwest Remediation Conference, 20 October, Tacoma, WA, 10 slides, 2025

This presentation describes the successful application of in situ stabilization and solidification (ISS) to remediate a former manufactured gas plant site with deep and complex subsurface contamination. The 1.5-acre site, located in a highly constrained urban setting between major transportation corridors and adjacent to a river, contained soil and groundwater impacted by VOCs, SVOCs, TPH, and NAPL to depths of up to 75 ft bgs. Because contamination was largely confined beneath clean overburden and offsite migration was not a primary concern, ISS was selected as a cost-effective alternative to excavation and disposal. The remedial approach combined deep soil mixing with cement- and slag-based binders to immobilize contaminants, reduce leachability, and improve soil handling characteristics. An integrated earth retention system allowed remediation to proceed safely within the limited footprint while also serving as part of the treatment zone. Multiple mix designs were used to address variable site conditions, and swell management and final cover installation were incorporated into the overall design. The project demonstrated that ISS can effectively meet remedial objectives of preventing exposure, limiting contaminant migration, and reducing risk at ~ half the cost of traditional removal and offsite disposal. The case study highlights ISS as a particularly effective solution for deep contamination in confined urban sites, especially where clean overburden and infrastructure constraints make excavation impractical. https://nwremediation.com/wp-content/uploads/A1_Foss.pdf

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM SUPPLEMENTAL BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:16:01 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Humphreys Engineer Center Support Activity, Alexandria, VA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912HQ26S0025, 2026

SERDP is DoD's environmental research and development program, planned and executed in partnership with the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. SERDP is seeking proposals responding to Statements of Need (SONs) for projects to be funded in Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 with a focus on Weapons Systems and Platforms technologies:

Develop innovative and scalable synthetic approaches of nitration to form energetic molecules of interest to the Department of War that significantly reduces the amount of mixed acid (sulfuric and nitric acids) waste,

Identify efficient and effective chemical strippers for removal of organic coatings and sealants applied to composite substrates to enable development of a specification,

Deliver a predictive methodology for assessing the performance of new, viable corrosion mitigation solutions,
Develop technologies and processes to enable recovery of critical minerals from waste Department of War materiel to reduce reliance on mining operations and foreign sources, and
Develop a safe, scalable, and durable processes to reduce the size of energetic materials to enable treatment of energetic materials through a closed destruction technology (CDT)

Awardees under this BAA will be selected through a multi-stage review process, including a brief pre-proposal, a full proposal, and an oral presentation to the SERDP Technical Review Board (TRB) for final approval. To be eligible for consideration, proposers must submit a pre-proposal in response to only one of the SERDP SONs set forth in this announcement. Proposers may respond to more than one SON with separate pre-proposals. The Government will not pay proposers any costs for submitting a response to this announcement. There is no commitment by SERDP to make any recommendations for contract awards, nor to be responsible for any money expended by the proposer before contract award is made. To be eligible for consideration, parties wishing to respond to this announcement must submit a pre-proposal in accordance with the instructions on the website, no later than 2:00 PM ET on February 6, 2026. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/63fdc505db3645408f58992b9198f820/view

A -- ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (ESTCP) ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:15:38 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Humphreys Engineer Center Support Activity, Alexandria, VA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912HQ26S0003, 2026

The ESTCP is DoD's demonstration and validation program for environmental and installation energy technologies. The ESTCP Office is interested in receiving pre-proposals for innovative technology demonstrations that address DoD environmental and installation energy requirements as candidates for funding. The pre-proposal review step allows interested organizations to submit technology demonstrations for Government consideration without incurring the expense of a full proposal. Based upon the pre-proposal evaluation by ESTCP, each pre-proposal submitter will be notified as to whether ESTCP requests or does not request the submission of a full proposal. As noted in the instructions, evaluation criteria for pre-proposals are, in decreasing order of importance, Technical Merit, Cost/Benefit of Technology, Transition Potential, and Cost of Proposal. Due to the anticipated volume of pre-proposals that will be received, the Government will not provide debriefs to those who are not requested to submit a full proposal. Instructions for preparing a full proposal will be provided at the time of notification. A request for submission of a full proposal does not indicate a decision has been made to make an award. Readers should note that this is an announcement to declare ESTCP's intent to competitively fund demonstration projects as described in the Program Announcement on the ESTCP website. The Program Announcement and complete submittal instructions are found at https://serdp-estcp.mil/workwithus. There is no commitment by ESTCP to make any contract awards, nor to be responsible for any cost incurred by the offeror before a contract award is made. It is expected that multiple awards totaling approximately $10 million will result, depending on the availability of funds. To be eligible for consideration, parties wishing to respond to this announcement must submit a pre-proposal in accordance with the instructions on the website, no later than 2:00 PM ET on March 12, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/98c09c1f979e4403bb1c8b08cdcc3c93/view

F -- MID-PLUME GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION AT THE WALTON AND LONSBURY SUPERFUND SITE, ATTLEBORO, MASSACHUSETTS (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:15:22 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic Engineer Division, New England District, Concord, MA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912WJ26RA001, 2026

This is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New England District requires a contractor to conduct mid-plume remediation work at the Walton and Lonsbury Superfund Site in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Specifically, the contractor will be tasked with pre-construction planning and surveys; site preparation, including fencing, clearing, staging, erosion controls, monitoring well protection or abandonment, and construction of a work platform; and construction of the mid-plume treatment transect through excavation, soil management and disposal, mixing and quality control of zero-valent iron and sand, and backfilling with reactive media. Following construction, the contractor will restore the site through capping, grading, slope stabilization, wetland restoration, installation of new monitoring wells, removal of temporary facilities and controls, fence replacement, and repair of affected pavement. The work concludes with vegetation establishment, two semiannual groundwater monitoring events to assess remedy performance, and accommodation of an existing stormwater drain along the treatment transect alignment. The award will be a firm-fixed-price contract. Offers are due by 1:00 PM EST on February 12, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/f71745903659413e8d895d8e67fa44fd/view

APPLICATION OF GENOMIC INNOVATIONS IN MINE OPERATIONS, RECLAMATION, AND CLOSURE [General News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:31:16 GMT

Chan, M.T.T., D. Charest, D. Stefanowicz, C. Loring, E. DeBruin, and F. Di Palma. | British Columbia Technical and Research Committee on Reclamation, 22-25 September, Penticton, British Columbia, 19 pp, 2025

This paper provides an overview of the current genomics technologies and approaches, including environmental DNA and microbial genomics, that are applied to mine operations, reclamation, and closure efforts. It includes examples from collaborative research and partnerships among academia, industry, Indigenous communities, and government in British Columbia and Canada. It also discusses the ongoing efforts to develop industry standards for genomics technologies, which are important for ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting the adoption of these solutions in the mining sector. As British Columbia expands its critical mineral sector, it will be important to balance the economic advantages of mineral resource development with preservation of the environment for current and future generations. By fostering innovation and collaboration among multidisciplinary teams and sectors, the province can adopt sustainable mining practices that benefit the well-being of its natural ecosystems and communities. https://open.library.ubc.ca/soa/cIRcle/collections/59367/items/1.0450890?o=9

MOSAICS, MAPS, AND MULTI-COLLIERY HYDROGEOLOGIC UNITS: EPCAMR'S EFFORTS TO ADVANCE MINE POOL MAPPING MODELS TO ADDRESS AMD THROUGHOUT THE ANTHRACITE REGION [General News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:30:58 GMT

Hughes, R. and M. Hewitt. 2025 PA AMR Conference, 14-16 October, State College, PA, 32 minutes, 2025

This presentation describes long-term efforts to advance mine pool mapping and multi-colliery hydrogeologic unit (MCU) modeling across Pennsylvania's Anthracite Region to better understand and address abandoned mine drainage (AMD), subsidence, and water loss. Drawing on more than 15 years of work, the presentation describes how historic mine maps, cross-sections, and borehole data are digitized, georeferenced, mosaicked, and converted into detailed 3D GIS models that represent interconnected underground mine pools and flow paths. The models support treatment system planning, mine pool storage and volume calculations, stream restoration, and land use decision-making. Case studies from watersheds including Shamokin Creek, Mahanoy Creek, Black Creek, and Nanticoke Creek demonstrate how mine mapping informs AMD treatment consolidation, identifies subsidence and infiltration risk, and guides restoration strategies to keep surface water out of mines. The presentation emphasized that although the process is data-intensive and ongoing, open-access tools like the PA Mine Map Atlas are critical for translating historic mining records into actionable, region-wide remediation solutions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnQdqWj4wgY

HARDROCK ABANDONED MINE HAZARDS: AN OVERVIEW OF IMPACTS AND SOLUTIONS [General News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:30:44 GMT

National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs and Interstate Mining Compact Commission, 59 pp, 2025

This report provides a comprehensive overview of issues related to hardrock abandoned mine lands (AML) across the U.S. It outlines the diverse impacts stemming from hardrock AML sites, reviews ongoing reclamation efforts of state, tribal, and federal agencies, and identifies policy solutions to accelerate progress with reclamation. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1THQKrRuJqCMUSErO_fy02MKwm5Vzm-TJ/view

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR SPECIATION OF HEAVY METALS IN SOILS AND GROUNDWATER FROM ABANDONED SMELTING SITES: ANALYSIS OF THE CONTAMINATION DYNAMICS AND REMEDIATION ALTERNATIVES IN KARST SETTINGS [General News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:29:48 GMT

Xu, H., Q. Han, M. Adnan, M. Li, M. Wang, M. Wang, F. Jiang, and X. Feng.
Toxics 13(7):608(2025)

This review presents a framework for integrating molecular data and hydrogeological concepts to inform the management of risk and sustainable remediation of legacy metal pollution in karst. It considers how karst-specific features (i.e., rapid underground drainage, high permeability, and carbonate mineralogy) impact the mobility, speciation, and bioavailability of metallic pollutants, including Pb, Cd, Zn, and As. In some areas, such as Guizhou, China, the Cd content in the surface soil is as high as 23.36 mg/kg, indicating a regional risk. Molecular-scale analysis, such as synchrotron-based XAS, can elucidate the speciation forms that underlie toxicity and remediation potential. The review emphasizes discrepancies between karst in Asia, Europe, and North America and synthesizes cross-regional contamination events. The risk evaluation is complicated, particularly when dynamic flow systems and spatial heterogeneity are permanent, and deep models like DI-NCPI are required as a matter of course. Remediation is still dependent on the site; however, some technologies, such as phytoremediation, biosorption, and bioremediation, are promising if suitable geochemical and microbial conditions are present. https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/13/7/608

SEMI-PASSIVE SATURATED ROCK FILL AND ACTIVE FLUIDIZED BED REACTOR TECHNOLOGIES FOR SELENIUM REMOVAL FROM MINE WATER [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:27:46 GMT

Borja, M., T. Rutkowski, and L. Choquehuanca. Proceedings of Mine Water Solution, 16-18 June, Vancouver, Canada, 2025

Two bench-scale selenium treatment systems were developed with anoxic biological technologies using contact water from a mine site in South America. Mine effluents are required to comply with a total selenium discharge limit of 0.02 mg/L for livestock and 0.05 mg/L for irrigation. Saturated rock fill (SRF) and fluidized bed reactor (FBR) methods were tested for removing selenium from waste rock seepage. Results from SRF bench tests conducted over seven months indicate that an average of 99% of nitrate and 95% of dissolved selenium were removed. Two different types of waste rock were tested in parallel test reactors and performed similarly. Testing allowed optimization of the hydraulic retention time, which will allow for a reduction in the total capital cost and the material needed for the full-scale implementation envisioned for the closure stage. A bench-scale study aimed to demonstrate that the FBR technology could successfully reduce the selenium concentration in mine water to below the required standard. Results of FBR bench tests over two months demonstrated treatment of dissolved selenium, decreased levels to below 0.05 mg/L, and showed that an average of 99% of nitrate and 90% of dissolved selenium were removed. Both technologies reduced the total selenium concentration from ~ 0.19 mg/L to below the required effluent levels of 0.05 mg/L for dissolved selenium. Further testing is recommended at the pilot scale with the same mine-influenced water at site conditions. See pages 349-362: https://www.mineconferences.com/bluepixeldesign/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/FINAL-Proceedings-of-Mine-Water-Solutions-2025-3.pdf

INNOVATIVE PILOT-SCALE PROCESS FOR SUSTAINABLE RARE EARTH OXIDE PRODUCTION FROM COAL BYPRODUCTS: A COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:26:41 GMT

Rabbani, M., J. Werner, A. Fahimi, and E. Vahidi. ? Journal of Rare Earths 43(2):397-404(2025)

A pilot-scale process feeding was developed with two different materials resulting from a column leaching process and acid mine drainage (AMD) streams to recover rare earth elements (REEs). A life cycle assessment (LCA) study was conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of rare earth production from deleterious material in the form of highly contaminated leachate (HCL) and low-contaminated leachate (LCL). Results indicate that the main contributors to the environmental categories that produce RE-hydroxide stages are NaOH and electricity. Also, oxalic acid, Na₂CO₃, and hydrochloric acid significantly contribute to the production stage of individual rare earth oxides (REOs), including solvent extraction (SX) and precipitation steps. The HCL route has higher environmental impacts than LCL due to higher chemical/energy and H₂SO₄ usage; 468 and 292 kg of carbon dioxide are generated to produce 1 t of individual REOs from HCL and LCL routes, respectively. Moreover, the carbon dioxide emitted from the process, including the RE-hydroxide production, SX, and REOs production, is less than 10 t CO₂. A sensitivity analysis was also performed to assess the changeability of the environmental footprints of the main inputs in the SX process, as the main stage has a higher contribution to the whole process. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S100207212400108X/pdfft?md5=47cb837b70a3d63f668368a2627b892f&pid=1-s2.0-S100207212400108X-main.pdf

SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL (ANNUAL AND DECADAL) TRENDS OF METAL(LOID) CONCENTRATIONS AND LOADS IN AN ACID MINE DRAINAGE-AFFECTED RIVER [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:26:28 GMT

Jennings, E., P. Onnis, R. Crane, S.D.W. Comber, P. Byrne, A.L. Riley, W.M. Mayes, A.P. Jarvis, and K.A. Hudson-Edwards. ? Science of The Total Environment 964:178496(2025)

Sources, loads, and transport mechanisms of As, Cu, Zn, Fe, and S in a representative AMD-affected catchment (the Carnon River in Cornwall, UK) were determined over a 12-month sampling period along with 22 years of monitoring data, to understand the behavior of AMD-related metal(loid) contaminants as a function of space and time. The main source of metal(loid)s to the river was the County Adit, which drains AMD from ~60 km of underground historical mine workings. Maximum aqueous concentrations of Fe, Cu, and Zn occurred immediately downstream of the County Adit confluence with the Carnon River, whereas maximum As and S concentrations occurred further downstream, suggesting the presence of diffuse sources. Discharge and concentration relationships suggested that discharge drove Cu and Zn release, whereas pH and Eh influenced Fe, S, and As mobility. Total loads (represented by unfiltered sample contaminant concentrations) to the coastal zone ranged from 183 to 354 kg/month As, 307-742 kg/month Cu, 189-1,960 kg/month Fe, 53,400-125,000 kg/month S, and 1,280-3,320 kg/month Zn. The longevity and increasing amounts of contaminant discharge were confirmed with 22 years of monitoring data. The study highlights the complex and multifaceted behavior of contaminant metal(loid)s within AMD-affected riverine systems and the fact that point and diffuse sources can constitute significant long-term liabilities in these environments.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN EFFICIENT PRECIPITATION-FLOTATION-DEWATERING (PFD) PROCESS FOR ACID MINE DRAINAGE TREATMENT [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:26:08 GMT

Liu, P., X. Wang, and W. Zhang.
Separation and Purification Technology 353(Part B):128542(2025)

An efficient precipitation-flotation-dewatering (PFD) process was developed and optimized as a viable alternative to the high-density sludge (HDS) process for efficient AMD treatment. Results indicate that >90 % of ions were successfully precipitated by employing CaO as a neutralizing agent to adjust AMD pH to 10.0. Flotation was then conducted with a low-profile flotation column after adding 10 mg/L of A-100 flocculant and 400 mg/L of NaOL. Compared with the original AMD, the final removal of Fe, Al, Cd, Sn, Co, Ni, Zn, and Mn was 97.61%, 98.85%, 98.21%, 97.78%, 97.22%, 99.34%, 99.89%, and 99.14%, respectively. Additionally, the solid content of the produced sludge was 27%. Mechanistic inquiries revealed that A-100 and NaOL both chemically adsorbed on the particle surface and enhanced the collision and attachment probabilities between precipitate particles and bubbles, thereby augmenting the separation efficiency. In addition, shortening the flotation column reduced the particle flotation path, thereby improving the flotation efficiency. The efficient PFD process exhibits significant advantages of rapid and effective AMD treatment, high sludge solid content, small footprint, and high relocatable convenience, demonstrating satisfactory cost effectiveness and significant potential as a replacement of the HDS process for AMD treatment.

INCORPORATION OF ACTIVATED CARBON INTO RED MUD/FLY ASH-CONTAINING 3D-PRINTED ALKALI-ACTIVATED MATERIALS FOR ENHANCED ACID MINE DRAINAGE REMEDIATION [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:22:43 GMT

Almeida, M.M., N.P.F. Gonçalves, T. Gameiro, J.A. Labrincha, and R.M. Novais.
Separation and Purification Technology 366:132841(2025)

A study integrated activated carbon into 3D-printed waste-based alkali-activated materials (incorporating biomass fly ash and red mud) and investigated their potential for treating real acid mine drainage waters. Activated carbon loadings of 10, 20, and 30 wt% were incorporated into a fly ash, red mud, and metakaolin composition with a weight ratio of 30:40:30. The ink formulations were optimized by fine-tuning the liquid-to-solid ratio to ensure printability. As activated carbon content increased, the specific surface area of the materials improved significantly, from 40 to 95 m2/g. Incorporating 30 wt% of activated carbon enhanced the removal efficiency of target cations in a fixed-bed continuous flow process. After an 8-hour contact time, the removal rates for Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni, and Pb increased from 99%, 55%, 27%, 38%, 13%, and 95% (structure without activated carbon) to 99%, 90%, 82%, 80%, 69%, and 96% (structure with 30 wt% of activated carbon), respectively. This approach demonstrates the potential of combining a well-established sorbent, such as activated carbon, with waste-derived alkali-activated materials to significantly enhance the remediation of acid mine drainage. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383586625014388/pdfft?md5=797c35f0d9288e6a7b3d73692bb96d3f&pid=1-s2.0-S1383586625014388-main.pdf

DRYLAND ECOSYSTEM REGENERATION AND PLANT METAL(LOID) ACCUMULATION STRATEGIES 60 YEARS AFTER REVEGETATING A MINE TAILINGS POND. [Research]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:21:54 GMT

Wlodarczyk, T., F. Babst, K. Murawska-Wlodarczyk, O. Stokes, A. Salywon, W.J.D. van Leeuwen, C.L. Norton, S. Rader, R.M. Maier, and A. Babst-Kostecka.
Science of The Total Environment 1004:180705(2025)

A study aimed to investigate one of the few successfully revegetated Cu-Mo tailings ponds in a semi-arid southwestern area of the U.S. to improve understanding of the drivers and barriers of plant establishment. The study assessed vegetation structure, composition, and metal(loid) uptake in various sections of the tailings pond and an adjacent natural area by integrating in situ vegetation surveys, biochemical analyses of plants and soils, and remote sensing. Based on a hierarchical cluster analysis, plant communities at different successional stages corresponded to specific substrate properties across the site. Depending on the biochemistry and thickness of the surface soil, plants exhibited variable nutrients and metal(loid) accumulation in foliage. Certain soil properties may facilitate Cu mobility from tailings layers to the surface. Some of the species hyper-accumulated Cu, Se, and Re at levels of up to ?750, ?80, and ?90 mg/kg, respectively. For these species, robust elemental benchmarks were established through the X-ray fluorescence screening of many herbarium specimens from uncontaminated natural locations and confirmed their affinity for elevated metal(loid) accumulation at a larger scale. Findings can facilitate species selection for future reclamation research and applications. Upcoming work may leverage the same methodological framework to continue closing the knowledge gap of the factors that determine revegetation success or failure in drylands. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969725023459/pdfft?md5=724d50e54e6b0fe735fdde33b1fe9e8a&pid=1-s2.0-S0048969725023459-main.pdf

GROUNDWATER SULPHATE MANAGEMENT IN THE LOWER WOLFE CREEK CATCHMENT AT COPPER MOUNTAIN MINE: CHARACTERIZATION AND SHORT-TERM MITIGATION TESTING [Demonstrations]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:21:26 GMT

Humphries, S. | British Columbia Technical and Research Committee on Reclamation, 22-25 September, Penticton, British Columbia, 11 pp, 2025

Sulphate and other parameter concentrations from tailings and waste rock sources at the Copper Mountain Mine have been increasing over time in Wolfe Creek, a drainage to the east. The creek is predominantly groundwater-fed. The main source of recharge to the aquifer that feeds the creek is reclaimed water that drains through the Tailings Management Facility (TMF). Sulphate concentrations in the creek are nearing compliance station limits, and mitigation through groundwater interception is required to reduce loading and ultimately concentrations in Wolfe Creek. A phased mitigation strategy was developed. The first phase comprised significant characterization and installation of trial pumping wells. The second phase consisted of testing various short-term mitigation techniques, including pumping wells and various configurations of interception ditches and trenches. Both phases significantly advanced the working hydrogeological conceptual model, which is being used to develop medium to long-term interception options that are being tested using a numerical model. The removal of sulphate load through groundwater interception will result in reduced flows to the creek, which will likely affect downstream flows, reducing them to pre-startup conditions during operations rather than in post-closure. A wetland downgradient of the TMF may also become affected through load removal. Therefore, sulphate management must be carefully balanced with flow and load interception in the valley to manage the flow needs of the downstream environment. The paper focuses on the mitigation strategy, characterization efforts and results, conceptual model, and considerations for sulphate management. https://open.library.ubc.ca/soa/cIRcle/collections/59367/items/1.0450893?o=1

FINAL TECHNICAL REPORT RARE EARTH EXTRACTION AND CONCENTRATION AT PILOT-SCALE FROM NORTH DAKOTA COAL-RELATED FEEDSTOCKS [Demonstrations]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:21:09 GMT

Theaker, N., A. Bellal, N. Dyrstad-Cincotta, A. Benson, E. Kolb, D. Stadem, R. Winburn, N. Sosalla, R. Shallbetter, and D. Palo. U.S. Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory, 146 pp, 2025

The technical and engineering feasibility of a process for extracting rare earth elements (REEs) and critical minerals (CMs) from North Dakota lignite was evaluated in a project divided into two budget periods. The first budget period aimed to acquire 300 ppm blended feedstocks, design the pilot facility, and conduct a preliminary feasibility assessment. The second period aimed to construct, commission, and operate a 1,000 lb/hr pilot facility for the REE extraction process, and evaluate the refineability of the concentrate and the process economics. In each economic analysis, the most recent process data were utilized, even if it were not likely to be equivalent to future data from testing due to coal weathering. Feedstock was procured from a coal seam in the Rhame bed and from the top of a seam in the Freedom Mine and blended at a 60% Freedom Mine/40% Rhame bed mixture to ensure a 300-ppm mixture (average of 310). The pilot facility was capable of operating at 1,000 lbs/hr for an extended period. Pilot operation processed >100 tons of the 300-ppm blended feedstock and produced REE concentrates as high as ~90% pure REEs. However, the CMs originally planned for extraction were dramatically reduced in extraction, along with a mild reduction in the REEs due to the significant weathering of the coal feedstocks, likely from mineral changes in the coal. The extraction percentages are believed to be below that of a system utilizing fresh feedstock. Overall, the pilot utilized REE extraction technology to recover high-purity concentrates from lignite. The economics showed a potentially beneficial case when paired with carbon products manufacturing, although this would be substantially improved using the prior bench-scale extraction data as compared with the pilot (only pilot data was used in the model for consistency). https://www.osti.gov/servlets/purl/2563526

NOVEL APPROACHES TO DRYLAND RECLAMATION ENHANCE VEGETATION AND SOIL STABILITY AT A FORMER URANIUM MINE [Demonstrations]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:19:27 GMT

Eckhoff, K., M. Duniway, R.K. Mann, J.E. Hinck, K. Walton-Day, and S. Munson. ? American Society of Reclamation Sciences 41st Annual Meeting, 2-5 June, Knoxville, TN, 45 slides, 2024

The Kanab North Mine reclamation was utilized to test the effectiveness of traditional treatments of drill seeding a non-native plant species seed mix versus novel treatments of a native plant species seed mix and using artificial nurse plants (Con-Mods) with broadcast seeding to understand how negative impacts can be mitigated during reclamation. Plant establishment and composition, soil surface cover, and dust emissions were measured for the first five years of reclamation. The application of biological soil crust (BSC) inoculum as a split-plot factor on plant and BSC establishment, soil surface cover, and soil stability was also tested. Results showed that plant cover and establishment increased in all treatments and consisted mostly of annual unseeded non-native forbs. Con-Mods significantly increased the cover of total, graminoid, and native plant species; native seed mix increased woody, native, perennial, and seeded species cover. Spacing between perennial plants decreased with time in all treatments, but the traditional drill-seeded non-native seed mix remained higher than novel treatments. Dust emissions decreased with time and increasing plant cover but were not affected by seeding mix or method. BSC inoculation increased the level of soil development with Con-Mods but not drill seed. Though soil stability increased over time, BSC inoculation resulted in only a small increase in stability, with Con-Mods resulting in higher stability than drill seed. Overall, novel approaches to reclamation (Con-Mods and native seed mix) were more effective overall than traditional methods, increasing plant cover, permitting BSC establishment, and promoting soil stability after uranium mine reclamation. https://www.asrs.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eckhoff_301C.pdf

AN OPERATIONAL APPROACH TO GEOMORPHIC DESIGN IN MINE RECLAMATION: A CASE STUDY FROM TECK COAL LINE CREEK OPERATIONS [Cleanup News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:19:13 GMT

Dube, J. and D. Formanski. British Columbia Technical and Research Committee on Reclamation, 22-25 September, Penticton, British Columbia, 13 pp, 2025

In 2023, a three-year phased project was initiated to design geomorphic landforms at an existing mine rock spoil with a focus on the engineering perspective of the bulk re-slope of West Line Creek Spoil. The movement of materials inherently has constraints related to material type, equipment selection, geotechnical considerations, and economics. The process of creating a geomorphic design was primarily a desktop exercise that was iteratively improved through reviews of field experts and was conducted in 2024. The West Line Creek geomorphic design process results in an increased variability in slopes and aspects, which has a positive contribution to biodiversity objectives while maximizing operational safety, mine production, and managing geotechnical constraints. The paper discusses the design approach and outlines the benefits and practical learnings for reclaiming a mine rock spoil by integrating geomorphic features. The project demonstrates the effectiveness and learnings of a thorough design approach in achieving sustainable closure goals. https://open.library.ubc.ca/media/stream/pdf/59367/1.0447207/3

BLACKLICK CREEK: THE DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF A WATERSHED [Cleanup News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:17:27 GMT

Smoyer, J. and R. Farabaugh. 2025 PA AMR Conference, 14-16 October, State College, PA, 41 minutes, 2025

Mining near the Black Lick Creek watershed began in the late 1800s and declined through the mid-20th century, with final closures by the late 1960s. Abandoned mines left acid mine drainage (AMD) that rendered Black Lick Creek biologically dead for decades. Studies as early as 1931 documented extremely high acidity and iron levels. Three major discharges were responsible for most of the pollution, producing orange, iron-laden water that dominated base flow during dry periods. Instead of treating each discharge separately, a centralized treatment plant was designed by hydraulically connecting mine pools. The plant has a design capacity of 5,000 gals/min (average ~2,800 gpm) and consolidates flows from all three discharges. Water is pumped from mine pools, blended, oxygenated, treated with lime, and clarified to remove iron and acidity. Key features include:

Redundant pumps and treatment trains for reliability.

Large oxidation units, reaction tanks, and 90-foot clarifiers.

Polishing pond and constructed wetland for final treatment.

Off-spec pond to manage operational upsets.

Sludge pumped back underground into mine voids.

Treated water leaves the plant with near non-detectable iron levels. The project restored 25 miles of stream, with most improvements being highly visible and accessible. Fish, aquatic insects, kayaking, fishing, and recreation are returning to the creek. While the plant costs about $700,000/year to operate, the estimated economic benefit exceeds $2 million annually, even considering recreation alone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1SI4gKEXP4

MOAB UMTRA PROJECT [Cleanup News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:13:46 GMT

Pill, K. and L. Moran. RemPlex Seminar, 68 minutes, 2025

The Department of Energy's Moab Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) project is focused on the relocation of mill tailings and the remediation of contaminated groundwater at the site of a former uranium-ore processing facility. The seminar provides an update on progress being made through collaborations with scientific partners and regulatory agencies as the Moab UMTRA project moves towards site closure. It includes presentations of new and expanded groundwater investigations that have been completed to better understand contaminant behavior and refine remediation strategies. https://www.pnnl.gov/projects/remplex/seminars/moab-umtra-project

Slides:https://www.pnnl.gov/sites/default/files/media/file/RemPlex_Moab_seminar_presentation_9Dec2025.pdf

THE FIRST MODELING, MEASUREMENT, AND CONFIRMATION OF NATURAL ATTENUATION OVER A 30-YEAR PERIOD IN A URANIUM IN-SITU RECOVERY CONTEXT: APPROACHES AND PERSPECTIVES [Cleanup News]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:13:24 GMT

Doucmak, R., N. Seigneur, S. Escario, E. Chanvry, V. Lagneau, R. Khaibulin, R. Yegorov, S. Kairambayev, and M. Descostes. Journal of Contaminant Hydrology 273:104607(2025)

In situ recovery (ISR) is the most widely used uranium mining technique worldwide due to its cost-effectiveness; however, acidic ISR operations affect groundwater quality by increasing the concentrations of dissolved elements (such as SO₄) and decreasing pH. Natural attenuation was demonstrated within the '3y' unit at the Kanzhugan deposit in Kazakhstan, where uranium was mined using ISR in the 1980s. The study aimed to predict the environmental footprint of ISR production using a reactive transport (RT) modeling approach with HYTEC software based on 30 years of monitoring data over a kilometric scale. The model, which assumes a homogeneous medium but incorporates key geochemical reactions, successfully reproduced the natural attenuation data previously published by Kayukov (2005) over 10 years. It was extended to the present day with validation points to enhance long-term prediction reliability. The developed geochemical model shows that cationic exchange on clay surfaces and the precipitation of secondary minerals like gypsum regulate the behavior of contaminants (pH and SO₄) over extended periods and distances. Parameter calibration reveals the geochemical changes across broad temporal and spatial scales. The study demonstrates that RT simulations can be utilized to predict uranium production and evaluate the long-term environmental footprint.

F -- FORMALLY UTILIZED SITES REMEDIAL ACTION PROGRAM (FUSRAP) SHALLOW LAND DISPOSAL AREA (SLDA) REMEDIATION PROJECT (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:13:04 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Great Lakes and Ohio Engineer Division, Buffalo District, Buffalo, NY
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912P426RA003, 2025

When this solicitation is released sometime in December 2025 or January 2026, it will be competed as a full and open competiton. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, intends to issue a C-type Hybrid Contract containing both Cost Reimbursable and Firm-Fixed Price line items for remediation services for the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program (FUSRAP) Shallow Land Disposal Area (SLDA) Remediation Project. This project aims to address environmental remediation needs at the SLDA, which is critical for ensuring the safety and protection of the surrounding ecosystem. The award will be made on a best value basis. There is no solicitation at this time. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/4af863a5221a4f829e22d1a8edd34736/view

F -- EMERGENCY REMEDIAL RESPONSE SERVICES (ERRS 6) (PRESOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:12:41 GMT

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 1 Contracting Office, Boston, MA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov 68HE0125R0004, 2025

When this solicitation is released, it will be competed as a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 562910. EPA Region 1 plans to issue a competitive small business set-aside solicitation to provide Emergency and Rapid Response Services (ERRS) for time-critical removals and rapid remedial actions with respect to the release or threat of release of oil, hazardous and toxic wastes, petroleum products, hazardous substances, or pollutants, contaminants or fire or explosion hazards, that pose an actual or potential threat to human health or welfare, or the environment. This procurement will also include the cleanup for incidents involving weapons of mass destruction; acts of terrorism; nuclear, biological, and chemical incidents; and natural or man-made disasters. These services are to be provided within the EPA Region 1 geographic area, which includes the states of CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT, and 10 Tribal Nations. The Government intends to award a performance-based IDIQ-type contract for a maximum period of performance of 60 months, with a five-year term. The Government intends to award one contract resulting from the small business set-aside solicitation that will follow this synopsis. The solicitation and resulting contract will include the Environmental Protection Agency Acquisition Regulation (EPAAR) clause: 1552.209-74 LIMITATION OF FUTURE CONTRACTING Alternate I (ERRS) (APR 2004). During the life of the ERRS contract, the contractor agrees that, unless otherwise authorized by the Contracting Officer, the firm will not provide any START type activities (e.g., START contracts) to EPA within the contractor's ERRS-assigned geographical area(s), either as a prime contractor, subcontractor, or consultant. There is no solicitation at this time. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/e608143def504090933c2aaa576a594c/view

F -- RARITAN BAY SLAG SUPERFUND SITE OPERABLE UNIT 1 - SEAWALL SECTOR REMEDIAL ACTION (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:12:07 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Northwestern Engineer Division, Kansas City District, Kansas City, MO
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912DQ26RA017, 2025

This is a full and open competition under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District, requires a contractor to perform under a single, stand-alone contract for the Raritan Bay Slag Superfund Site Operable Unit 1 - Seawall Sector Remedial Action. Remediation will consist of the dredging/excavation and removal of source materials (i.e., pieces of slag comingled with crushed battery casing materials and associated wastes that act as sources of contamination), and contaminated soil/sediment from the areas located in the Seawall Sector. Source materials, contaminated soil/sediment, riprap/armored stone, and miscellaneous debris will be removed. The Remedial Action Objectives (RAOs) are organized into these categories: slag, battery casings, and associated wastes, which comprise the highly toxic source material principal threat waste (PTW); soil; sediment; and surface water. The award will be a single cost-plus fixed-fee contract with a five-year period of performance beginning on July 28, 2026. Offers are due by 3:00 PM EST on January 20, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/a2501b0e1b094843b6e1802144672307/view

F -- MID-PLUME GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION AT THE WALTON AND LONSBURY SUPERFUND SITE, ATTLEBORO, MASSACHUSETTS (SOL) [Market/Commercialization]

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:11:18 GMT

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic Engineer Division, New England District, Concord, MA
Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov W912WJ26RA001, 2025

This is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 562910. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, requires a contractor to conduct mid-plume remediation work at the Walton and Lonsbury Superfund Site, a former electroplating facility that operated from 1940 to 2007, in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Specifically, the contractor will be tasked with pre-construction planning and surveys; site preparation including fencing, clearing, staging, erosion controls, monitoring well protection or abandonment, and construction of a work platform; and construction of the mid-plume treatment transect through excavation, soil management and disposal, mixing and quality control of zero-valent iron (ZVI) and sand, and backfilling with reactive media. Following construction, the contractor will restore the site through capping, grading, slope stabilization, wetland restoration, installation of new monitoring wells, removal of temporary facilities and controls, fence replacement, and repair of affected pavement. The work concludes with vegetation establishment, two semiannual groundwater monitoring events to assess remedy performance, and accommodation of an existing stormwater drain along the treatment transect alignment. The award will be a firm-fixed-price contract. Offers are due by 1:00 PM EST on February 12, 2026.
https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/f71745903659413e8d895d8e67fa44fd/view