INNOVATION March-April 2014

anoxic, reducing conditions, therefore, redox potential would be monitored following installation (expected to start low and gradually increase over the lifetime of the PRB as treatment media is consumed). As a PRB matures, organic carbon content decreases and ZVI surfaces degrade, while secondary wall face fouling begins. Collecting cores for analysis can be useful in inferring the geochemical environment in which the minerals were PRBs are a cost-effective, site-specific and sustainable treatment technology, particularly for managing ground- water metal contamination in such places as mine sites. Sustainably designed and often including locally sourced materials, PRBs can be structurally adapted to site features, further minimizing disturbance. This passive treatment method allows for on-site source and pathway removal of contaminants. With careful planning and attention to quality, PRBs can also offer significant cost savings compared to other technologies, such as chemical injections or pump and treat system. The long-term performance of PRBs provides a sustain- able solution at remote sites where access may be difficult and power not available. Current estimates indicate that PRB formed, and the magnitude of face fouling. PRBs as an Effective Technology

BUILDING SCIENCE GRADUATE PROGRAM INNOVATION + SUSTAINABILITY The BCIT Building Science Graduate Program has a unique, interdisciplinary approach that combines the theory and practical skills needed to deliver durable, healthy, comfortable and energy-efficient buildings. Our flexible study options allow you to earn a master’s degree in building science full time or part time , or take individual courses for professional development . Register now. Gabriel Viehweger, MS, P.Geo., has 20 years of experience as a hydrogeologist and geologist, investigating subsurface con- ditions and both physical and contaminant groundwater flow in unconsolidated and fractured flow settings. He currently works at Hemmera. systems have low monitoring costs over a typical 10-year lifespan. The only typical long-term costs include routine compliance and monitoring. In contrast, active treatment systems require energy for groundwater pumping, pipes and water treatment infrastructure, in addition to imported chemicals. Although active treatment technologies are considered more reliable and definitive in their treatment capability, their capital and ongoing costs can be consider- ably higher than passive systems such as PRBs. For more information or further reading, please contact Michael Choi at mchoi@hemmera.com. Michael Choi, B.Sc., is a Senior Environmental Scientist, Project Director and Business Leader at Hemmera with 16 years of experience in the environmental consulting industry. Ben Lin, B.A.Sc., P.Eng., is a Professional Engineer at Hemmera with 10 years of experience practising environ- mental engineering for contaminated site investigation and remediation at complex sites throughout BC.

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1 Ad Name: Building Science - Spring 2014 2 Media: Innovation (APEGBC) 3 PO#: A2013-0269

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