Influence of temperature and macromolecular mobility on sorption of TCE on humic acid coated mineral surfaces

This study demonstrates differences in sorptive capacity of volatile organic compound (VOC) trichloroethylene (TCE) onto natural organic matter (NOM) coated and uncoated mineral surfaces above and below the NOM glass transition temperature. TCE sorption isotherms for dry NOM-mineral systems below the NOM glass transition temperature (Tg) demonstrated sorption behavior characteristic of micropore filling, with sorption capacities reduced relative to uncoated mineral matrices. Such differences were not entirely associated with differences in surface areas of the coated and uncoated mineral matrices, but were likely associated with either a blockage of pore space available to the VOC or a kinetic limitation that does not allow the VOC access to the internal porosity of the model soil within the time periods of the experiment. TCE sorption in dry NOM-mineral matrices above the Tg, however, was described in terms of sorption within a more fluid, macromolecular dissolution medium that does not hinder access to mineral surfaces. Such observations have potential important implications for modeling the fate and transport of VOCs in soils and sediment systems.

► Sorption study of TCE onto natural organic matter coated and uncoated mineral surfaces. ► Sorption for dry NOM-mineral systems below the NOM Tg demonstrated micropore filling. ► Sorption for dry NOM-mineral systems above the NOM Tg demonstrated rubbery-type behavior.