PNNL

Abstract

Pump-and-treat (P&T) is a widely used remediation technology that involves pumping groundwater from extraction wells in the subsurface, removing contaminants of concern from the groundwater in an aboveground treatment system, reintroducing treated water into the environment – often by injection back into the groundwater aquifer or by discharge to the surface–, and groundwater monitoring to evaluate performance. In this chapter we explore how the Hanford Site uses the P&T remediation approach to treat contaminated groundwater. Six P&T facilities currently operate at the Hanford Site; however, this chapter uses the 100 Area DX and HX P&T facilities' treatment of hexavalent chromium as a case study to discuss this remediation approach. Located in the River Corridor, HX and DX P&T facilities are much closer to reaching closure than the younger 200W P&T facility located in the Central Plateau’s 200W Area. As such, one can follow the historical design, operation, and optimization steps that have led these facilities closer to closure.