Remediation of selenium in groundwater using permeable reactive barriers
A cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution that utilizes permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) filled with biosolids to remediate selenium-contaminated groundwater. This approach reduces economic and environmental challenges of traditional bioremediation while enhancing microbial diversity.
Overview
Permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) offer a sustainable and low-maintenance solution for the remediation of selenium in groundwater. These barriers act as natural filtering systems, capturing selenium contaminants and making them accessible to microorganisms. By using biosolids as a filling material, this method not only improves the efficiency of selenium removal but also leverages a resource-rich byproduct from wastewater treatment, reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- PRBs are constructed using solid organic carbon sources like woodchips, mulch, and compost.
- Incorporation of biosolids enhances microbial activity and diversity, essential for the transformation and immobilization of selenium.
- The solution involves laboratory and pilot-scale testing with various combinations of materials and bacteria to optimize remediation effectiveness.
- Continuous monitoring of metal concentration and organic matter transformation in experimental setups.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 6, this solution has undergone laboratory testing and is advancing towards pilot-scale validation. The approach leverages existing biosolid products regulated by the US EPA, indicating its potential readiness for broader application in contaminated groundwater scenarios.
About University of Maryland
The University of Maryland is the state's flagship public research university in College Park, serving a large student body and offering comprehensive academic and research programs. Industry engages through an adjacent research park, shared prototyping facilities, and dedicated corporate partnership channels, plus joint pathways to a medical campus for clinical and regulatory engagement. Its Washington–Baltimore location places partners near federal agencies, national labs, and prime contractors, while a statewide extension network supports collaboration with companies. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DoD, DOE, NASA, and USDA, and coordinated commercialization services advance IP, startup formation, licensing, and industry-sponsored research.
delivered to your inbox.