In Situ Chemical Oxidation (ISCO)
Rapid chemical destruction of contaminants through in situ oxidation.
Oxidants commonly used by Tersus to support ISCO projects include:
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Sodium Persulfate
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Activated Sodium Persulfate
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Hydrogen Peroxide
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Modified Fenton's Reagent
What is In Situ Chemical Oxidation (ISCO)?
In Situ Chemical Oxidation (ISCO) is a remediation technology that injects chemical oxidants directly into the subsurface to destroy organic contaminants through oxidation reactions. Unlike biological remediation, which relies on naturally occurring microorganisms, ISCO rapidly transforms contaminants into less harmful compounds through chemical reactions.
A variety of oxidants are available, each with unique reaction mechanisms, persistence, and applicability depending on site conditions and contaminant type. Successful ISCO applications require careful evaluation of geology, hydrogeology, contaminant distribution, natural oxidant demand, and delivery methods to maximize treatment effectiveness.
Typical Applications
- Chlorinated solvent source areas
- Petroleum hydrocarbon source zones
- BTEX and fuel releases
- Coal tar and creosote impacts
- Industrial organic contaminants
- Rapid source-zone mass reduction prior to monitored natural attenuation or bioremediation
Advantages
- Rapid contaminant destruction
- Effective for high contaminant concentrations
- Applicable to a wide range of organic contaminants
- Can reduce long-term remediation timeframes
- Often combined with biological remediation technologies
- Multiple oxidant chemistries available for site-specific conditions
Limitations
- Oxidant demand can reduce treatment efficiency
- Uniform amendment distribution can be challenging
- Some oxidants require specialized handling and safety precautions
- Rebound may occur if contaminant mass remains untreated
- Site characterization is critical for successful design
Explore Related Technologies
Enhanced Aerobic Bioremediation
Stimulating aerobic microorganisms to rapidly degrade petroleum hydrocarbons.
Enhanced aerobic bioremediation supplies oxygen and essential nutrients to promote the growth of naturally occurring microorganisms that break down petroleum hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. It is commonly used to treat dissolved plumes and residual contamination from gasoline, diesel, and other fuel releases.
Enhanced Anaerobic Oxidative Bioremediation
Stimulating anaerobic microorganisms to oxidize petroleum hydrocarbons using alternative electron acceptors.
Enhanced anaerobic oxidative bioremediation promotes the biological degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in oxygen-limited environments by supplying alternative electron acceptors such as sulfate or nitrate. This approach is well suited for treating dissolved hydrocarbon plumes where aerobic conditions cannot be sustained.
Surfactant-Enhanced Aquifer Remediation (SEAR)
Mobilizing and recovering contaminants using specialized surfactants.
Surfactant-Enhanced Aquifer Remediation (SEAR) uses specially formulated surfactants to increase the solubility and mobility of contaminants, improving their recovery from soil and groundwater. SEAR is particularly effective for source-zone treatment and can significantly reduce contaminant mass prior to biological or chemical remediation.
Why Parter with Tersus?
- Over 40 Years of Remediation Expertise – Practical experience helping consultants, site owners, and regulators solve complex soil and groundwater remediation challenges.
- Innovative, Field-Proven Technologies – High-performance remediation products and treatment approaches designed for a wide range of contaminants and site conditions.
- Technical Collaboration – Practitioner-led guidance throughout technology selection, design, implementation, and performance monitoring.
- Responsive Customer Support – Knowledgeable assistance from budgeting and product selection through field implementation and project completion.
- Reliable Supply & Fast Delivery – Strategically located warehouses and dependable logistics help keep remediation projects on schedule.
- Committed to Your Project Success – We measure our success by helping clients achieve effective, practical, and cost-efficient remediation outcomes.
