In-situ hybrid reactive barrier for selenium removal from groundwater
An innovative in-situ hybrid reactive barrier designed to selectively remove selenium from groundwater using a three-stage process combining selective selenium capture, electrochemical polishing, and arsenic management. The technology promises passive operation, minimal energy demand, and reduced chemical usage, offering a modular solution for large-scale groundwater plumes.
Overview
The in-situ hybrid reactive barrier is an advanced solution developed to address the challenge of selenium contamination in groundwater. This technology utilizes a three-stage process to effectively capture and remove selenium while managing arsenic levels. The innovative system offers rapid selenium removal through selective ion-exchange media, followed by electrochemical polishing that deposits residual selenium onto gold electrodes. This ensures ultralow selenium concentrations with minimal chemical consumption and no secondary sludge production. The final stage employs ferrihydrite-coated media to maintain arsenic adsorption, preventing its remobilization in the treated water. This modular platform is suitable for large, diffuse groundwater plumes and operates passively without constant chemical dosing.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Stage 1: Utilizes selenium-selective anion-exchange media for rapid capture of Se(VI) and Se(IV).
- Stage 2: Electrochemical polishing zone with gold electrodes for selective selenium deposition, achieving ultralow residual selenium levels.
- Stage 3: Ferrihydrite-coated media for arsenic management, ensuring adsorption stability.
- Passive operation with no continuous chemical addition and minimal energy demand.
- Compatible with monitored natural attenuation, generating negligible secondary waste.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, the technology has been validated through laboratory column studies and is progressing towards bench-scale testing and controlled field pilots. The proposed pilot study will assess performance metrics such as selenium removal efficiency, arsenic stability, and media lifetime over an 18-24 month period.
About Monash University, Melbourne
Monash University is a comprehensive public research university and one of Australia’s largest, known for scale, interdisciplinarity, and an applied orientation. Its Melbourne-based technology precinct brings together university laboratories, pilot-scale and prototyping suites, and company R&D groups alongside government research organizations to enable co-development and rapid iteration. Integration with a major hospital network supports clinical trials and translation, while structured industry placements and doctoral partnerships create a robust talent pipeline for corporate R&D. Research is backed by competitive funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and state and federal programs that incentivize industry collaboration. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation, with pathways to incubation and investment within the precinct.
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