Education

Publications

A Physically Based Approach for Estimating Hydraulic Conductivity fromHPTPressure and Flowrate

Borden, R. C., Cha, K. Y., & Liu, G. (2021), GROUNDWATER, 59(2), 266–272. https://doi.org/10.1111/gwat.13039

Evaluating the impact of back diffusion on groundwater cleanup time

Borden, R. C., & Cha, K. Y. (2021), JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY, 243. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jconhyd.2021.103889

Stochastic cost-optimization and risk assessment of in situ chemical oxidation for dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) source remediation

Kim, U., Parker, J. C., & Borden, R. C. (2019), STOCHASTIC ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND RISK ASSESSMENT, 33(1), 73–89. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00477-018-1633-y

Laboratory column evaluation of high explosives attenuation in grenade range soils

Won, J., & Borden, R. C. (2017), Journal of Environmental Quality, 46(5), 968–974.

Natural and enhanced attenuation of explosives on a hand grenade range

Borden, R. C., Won, J., & Yuncu, B. (2017), Journal of Environmental Quality, 46(5), 961–967.

Impact of glycerin and lignosulfonate on biodegradation of high explosives in soil

Won, J., & Borden, R. C. (2016), JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY, 194, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jconhyd.2016.08.008

Statistical Analysis of Secondary Water Quality Impacts from Enhanced Reductive Bioremediation

Tillotson, J. M., & Borden, R. C. (2015), GROUND WATER MONITORING AND REMEDIATION, 35(4), 67–77. https://doi.org/10.1111/gwmr.12132

Enhanced Reductive Dechlorination of Tetrachloroethene Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquid with EVO and Mg(OH)(2)

Hiortdahl, K. M., & Borden, R. C. (2014), ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, 48(1), 624–631. https://doi.org/10.1021/es4042379

Perchlorate natural attenuation in a riparian zone

Borden, R. C., Knox, S. L., Lieberman, M. T., & Ogles, D. (2014), JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH PART A-TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING, 49(10), 1100–1109. https://doi.org/10.1080/10934529.2014.897145

Power earth auger modification for waste extraction from pit latrines

Rogers, T. W., Reyes, F. L., III, Beckwith, W. J., & Borden, R. C. (2014), JOURNAL OF WATER SANITATION AND HYGIENE FOR DEVELOPMENT, 4(1), 72–80. https://doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2013.183

View all publications via NC State Libraries

Grants

Modified Power Auger for Hygienic Latrine Emptying

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation(11/01/11 - 4/30/13)

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Modified Power Auger for Hygienic Latrine Emptying

Sponsor: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Start Date: 11/01/11

End Date: 4/30/13

Abstract

In this project, we will develop and test a method for emptying septic tanks, cesspits and latrines in developing countries using a gasoline powered auger that has been modified to operate as a progressive cavity pump. The modified auger/pump will be used to pump a mixture of solids and water into 55 gallon drums that can be carried to a small vehicle for transport to a treatment and disposal facility.

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Development and Field Evaluation of Colloidal Mg(OH)2 Buffer

US Dept. of Energy (DOE)(6/20/11 - 6/19/14)

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Development and Field Evaluation of Colloidal Mg(OH)2 Buffer

Sponsor: US Dept. of Energy (DOE)

Start Date: 6/20/11

End Date: 6/19/14

Abstract

Increasing the pH of groundwater and aquifer material is a major challenge due to the high buffering capacity of these materials. In this project, we will develop and evaluate colloidal Mg(OH)2 buffers for increasing aquifer pH. This will include laboratory studies to evaluate transport and geochemical properties followed by field testing to evaluate performance.

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Generation of Biodegradation - Sorption Barriers for Munitions Constituents 11 EB-ER1-079 (formerly ER1-038)

US Army - Corps of Engineers(3/30/11 - 3/30/16)

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Generation of Biodegradation - Sorption Barriers for Munitions Constituents 11 EB-ER1-079 (formerly ER1-038)

Sponsor: US Army - Corps of Engineers

Start Date: 3/30/11

End Date: 3/30/16

Abstract

The overall objective of this proposal is to further develop and demonstrate a process to enhance the sorption and/or degradation of TNT, RDX, HMX and perchlorate in soils by spray application of an amendment solution containing waste glycerol and a soluble humic material to the soil surface, followed by irrigation to carry the amendments deeper into the soil profile. The readily biodegradable glycerol will stimulate anaerobic biodegradation of the target contaminants and will reduce naturally occurring Fe(III) oxides and hydroxides to Fe(II). This Fe(II) will provide a reservoir of reducing power to maintain anoxic conditions in the soil and will enhance abiotic degradation of RDX and other contaminants. The humic materials will also maintain reducing conditions by consuming oxygen, enhance hydrophobic sorption, enhance covalent binding of TNT, and may potentially serve as electron shuttles, enhancing abiotic degradation by Fe(II). The humic material is also expected to enhance sorption of any heavy metals that may be present. Irrigation and transport of the amendments at least 0.25 m into the soil profile will be important to reduce fire hazards, generate more strongly reducing conditions, and increase treatment longevity. Our process builds heavily on prior work supported by SERDP (CU-1229) and ESTCP (ER-0434) which showed that a combined peat ? soybean oil treatment could be effective in reducing contaminant flux through the vadose zone. The major focus of this project will be to develop a practical, easy to deploy technology that does not generate a fire hazard and does not interfere with training activities. In this demonstration, an established and operational burn ground will be treated to reduce concentrations of perchlorate and other energetic compounds in the vadose zone. We propose to follow a phased approach consisting of: (1) laboratory column studies to identify mixtures of glycerol and/or humic materials that are effective in treating contaminated soils in situ and preventing leaching of contaminants deposited in the future; (2) medium scale field-pilot tests to evaluate treatment performance under representative field conditions; and (3) a large scale field demonstration of the technology on a heavily impacted burn area. At the end of each phase, there is a GO/NO GO Decision. Glycerol / humics treatment of soils should be applicable to a wide variety of DoD facilities including mortar and grenade ranges, tank targets, OB/OD areas, etc. This technology is not expected to replace lime treatment of training ranges. Rather, our approach will complement the lime treatment technology and should be applicable to many sites where lime treatment is difficult to implement (soils with high acidity, UXO, vegetated areas, etc.). Cost and performance of the proposed technology are expected to be comparable to lime treatment of surface soils.

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Development of Soluble Soy-based Products for Anaerobic Bioremediation

United Soybean Board(5/16/10 - 8/31/11)

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Development of Soluble Soy-based Products for Anaerobic Bioremediation

Sponsor: United Soybean Board

Start Date: 5/16/10

End Date: 8/31/11

Abstract

In this project, we will develop and evaluate low cost, soluble substrates for enhanced anaerobic bioremediation of chlorinated solvents and related contaminants.

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Numerical Modeling of Post-Remediation Impacts of Anaerobic Bioremediation on Groundwater Quality

Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP)(3/22/11 - 3/22/15)

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Numerical Modeling of Post-Remediation Impacts of Anaerobic Bioremediation on Groundwater Quality

Sponsor: Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP)

Start Date: 3/22/11

End Date: 3/22/15

Abstract

Electron donor addition can be very effective in stimulating enhanced reductive dechlorination (ERD) of chlorinated solvents and anaerobic biodegradation/immobilization of other groundwater contaminants. However, electron donor addition can result in the release of a groundwater ?plume? with reduced levels of O2, NO3-, SO42-, and elevated levels of dissolved Mn2+, Fe2+, CH4, organic carbon, salts, and naturally occurring hazardous compounds (As, etc.). There is growing concern about these ?secondary impacts? of anaerobic bioremediation processes. Objective: The overall objective of this research is to develop an improved understanding of the near- and long-term impacts to groundwater quality after implementation of in situ anaerobic bioremediation processes. This will include development and application of a general modeling approach for describing the natural attenuation of important secondary water quality impacts associated with electron donor addition. Specific objectives to be achieved during the three year duration of this project include. A. Formulate a general modeling approach appropriate for simulating the natural attenuation of electron donors and associated secondary impacts for a wide range of sites. The model approach and validation will be based on data from three intensively studied field sites -- Bemidji Crude Oil Spill, Cape Cod Wastewater Plume, and NAWC - West Trenton Chlorinated Solvent Spill. B. Assemble a database of secondary water quality impacts at ERD sites. Analyze the secondary plumes to determine a range of characteristics and natural attenuation mechanisms. Identify a set of representative Case Studies illustrating important aspects of secondary plume behavior. C. Use the validated model approach to simulate a series of synthetic plumes corresponding to end-member cases important to SWQI assessment. Use the simulation results to assess the potential for significant SWQIs at ERD sites based on site characteristics and remediation system design. D. Use the advanced model simulations and ERD parameter database to develop a draft protocol for estimating the likely extent and duration of secondary impacts at typical ERD sites. The protocol would address extent and duration of impacts, sampling needs, and modeling approaches.

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Enhanced Anaerobic Bioremediation using Soy Flour, Soy Protein Concentrate, and Lecithin

United Soybean Board(9/01/08 - 12/31/09)

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Enhanced Anaerobic Bioremediation using Soy Flour, Soy Protein Concentrate, and Lecithin

Sponsor: United Soybean Board

Start Date: 9/01/08

End Date: 12/31/09

Abstract

We have been studying the use of emulsified soybean oil for soil and groundwater remediation for several years. This research has dramatically improved our understanding of how soybean oil is distributed in the subsurface and how it stimulates pollutant biodegradation. In this project, we will evaluate the use of soy flour, soy protein concentrate, and lecithin as alternative materials for production of an emulsified soybean oil product for anaerobic bioremediation.

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Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage Using Crude Glycerol

United Soybean Board(7/01/07 - 12/31/08)

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Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage Using Crude Glycerol

Sponsor: United Soybean Board

Start Date: 7/01/07

End Date: 12/31/08

Abstract

In this project, we will develop and test a process to treat vadose zone contamination at mine sites using crude glycerol. In this process, crude caustic glycerol generated during production of biodiesel would be diluted with mine water and sprayed on the surface of the tailings pile. As the glycerol infiltrates down through the pile, the AMD would be treated through two complementary processes: (a) neutralization of the sulfuric acid present in the AMD by residual NaOH present in the glycerol; and (b) anaerobic biodegradation of the sulfate producing sulfide.

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Impacts of Sampling and Handling Procedures on DNA- and RNA-based Microbial Characterization and Quantification of Groundwater and Saturated Soil

Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP)(3/01/07 - 3/18/10)

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Impacts of Sampling and Handling Procedures on DNA- and RNA-based Microbial Characterization and Quantification of Groundwater and Saturated Soil

Sponsor: Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP)

Start Date: 3/01/07

End Date: 3/18/10

Abstract

The overall objective of this project is to determine the relationships of sample processing procedures to the effectiveness and efficiency of three molecular techniques used in qualitative and quantitative analysis of microbial populations in groundwater and associated saturated soil samples.

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Laboratory Evaluation of Aerobic and Anaerobic Biodegradation Processes at the Maryland Sand, Gravel and Stone Site

B2E, Inc. formerly Solutions-IES, Inc. formerly Solutions Industrial & Environmental Services(1/01/06 - 12/31/06)

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Laboratory Evaluation of Aerobic and Anaerobic Biodegradation Processes at the Maryland Sand, Gravel and Stone Site

Sponsor: B2E, Inc. formerly Solutions-IES, Inc. formerly Solutions Industrial & Environmental Services

Start Date: 1/01/06

End Date: 12/31/06

Abstract

Laboratory microcosm studies will be conducted using sediment and groundwater from the Maryland Sand, Gravel and Stone (MSGS) site to: (a) identify factors limiting contaminant biodegradation; and (2) identify treatment(s) that can be evaluated at the pilot scale to increase naturally occurring rates of biodegradation.

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Anaerobic Biotreatment of Acid Mine Drainage at Ore Knob Mine

US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)(11/01/05 - 10/31/08)

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Anaerobic Biotreatment of Acid Mine Drainage at Ore Knob Mine

Sponsor: US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Start Date: 11/01/05

End Date: 10/31/08

Abstract

Ore Knob Branch and Peak Creek are impaired due to discharge of acid mine drainage (AMD) from an abandoned copper/zinc mine. AMD production from the large tailings impoundment will be controlled by injecting emulsified soybean oil into the sediments to stimulate growth of naturally occurring bacteria. These bacteria will then use the soybean oil as a food source, consuming any dissolved oxygen and stopping further AMD production. Once oxygen is depleted, the sulfate reducing bacteria will reduce sulfuric acid (H2SO4) to sulfide (HS-). Metals will then coprecipitate with HS-, returning the minerals back to their original insoluble form (FeS2, CuS, NiS, ZnS, etc.). Extensive laboratory studies have demonstrated that this approach is very effective in treating AMD, resulting in a dramatic increase in pH, and reduction in dissolved metals. However, a pilot test should be conducted before full scale application.

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