goodwater

WP 10 develops tools and conceptual models to assess the processes that govern the fate of chlorinated hydrocarbons in a groundwater-surface water transition zone. In the groundwater/surface water interphase (GSI), where unique chemical gradients and ecological niches prevail, it is not easy to assess whether chlorinated hydrocarbon degradation is aerobic or anaerobic, abiotic or biotic. In order to identify major pathways and quantify the fate of chlorinated ethene’s and ethane’s in a field system at a GSI, we will investigate water flow, redox gradients and fate of chlorinated compounds. Compound-specific isotope ratios of contaminants will be used as a tool for identifying transformation from other processes like sorption and dilution. Microbial communities will be studied with focus on specific degraders for chlorinated compounds like Dehalococcoides using advanced molecular tools. State-of-the-art field methods for sampling and quantification of water and contaminant fluxes will be applied, and reactive solute transport models and laboratory experiments may be included to support the field observations. The final goal is to provide conceptual models to be integrated in risk assessment tools in relation to the EU Water Framework Directive. The majority of the work will be performed by fellow 10 (SV: P.L. Bjerg, DTU). Input and collaboration will be provided from/with fellows 6 (DTU), 7, 11 (HMGU), 12 (VITO), 13 (K.U.Leuven), and 14 (UGent). The fellow will deliver conceptual models and process input to model activities performed by fellow 16 (DTU). An introduction into an engineering company by e.g. field work (sampling, drilling), risk assessment, and application of numerical models will be provided by Orbicon (H. Møller-Jensen) for fellow 10 over a total period of 1 month.