Integrated physical and mathematical modeling approaches for facilitating R&D of remediation technologies for the management of petroleum-contaminated sites in Atlantic Canada

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Since 1990s, subsurface contamination associated with the growing oil and gas sector in Atlantic Canada has been acquiring much attention. The proposed research will integrate physical experimentation and numerical computer models into a general framework for generating novel engineering solutions to petroleum-contamination issues within this region. The proposed research will include the following specific research programs: (1) development of porous-media enhancement techniques (i.e., prefabricated horizontal/vertical drains and bio-barrier systems) for improving in-situ bioremediation design; (2) custom-design of alternative chemical-carriers for enhancing DNAPLs removal; (3) development of effective heavy-metal removal techniques (e.g., reusable bio-sorbents, in situ containment of heavy metals, and microbial plugging isolation); (4) dynamic modeling of remediation process and real-time control for optimal remediation system design. The novelty of this research is the extensive use of both experimental and computational tools for R&D of remediation technologies. As subsurface contamination events occurred in the fields are "unseeable", it is highly desired to be able to "see" these objects/events with the aid of certain tools. Therefore, the proposed programs choose to use experimentations and computer models to develop understandings of flow-transport and contamination-restoration processes and to clearly visualize "unseeable" contamination and cleanup events. This beauty could lead to economically feasible and effective remediation designs. The proposed research will be the first comprehensive subsurface contamination-remediation experimental-modeling system in Atlantic Canada. The developed technologies will help Canadian governments improve their effectiveness in managing subsurface pollution problems associated with not only petroleum industries but also many other practices. It will also benefit industrial partners by providing cost-effective methods for pollution control and abatement. The research products will be eventually commercialized for helping Canadian industries with both improved environmental and economic efficiencies.