Comparative evaluation of ozonation and stripping methods to treat contaminated groundwater by trichloroethylene. Assessment of effects on the other matrix components

Many methods, that involve several oxidants combined specific catalyst, are commonly utilised for the abatement of organochlorine compounds in natural and waste waters. This study investigates the efficiency of removal of trichloroethylene (TCE) contained in groundwater through oxidation with ozone. The fundamental contribution of the stripping was experimentally measured through tests with nitrogen. For comparative purposes, the same experimental tests were performed on a model solution containing TCE. A dedicated experimental apparatus was specifically designed. The treatment under investigation showed a good efficiency dependent on the ozone dose and initial pollutant concentration. Experimental data, obtained from stripping and oxidation tests performed both with groundwater and model solution, were fitted by models. Finally, the effects of the ozone treatment on other groundwater components, as bromide and organic and inorganic nitrogen, together with the formation of undesired by-products were also taken into account.