The effect of methanol on BTEX mobility in saturated zone and the remedial approach to this problem

Abstract

Soil contamination with petroleum hydrocarbons is a common problem. Toxic compounds such as BTEXs are present in gasoline derivatives. They can move through the soil and contaminate the groundwater, especially if methanol is present. This problem is critical in permeable soil. Although leaching of BTEX compounds from soil to the water is almost temperature dependent, movement of methanol through the soil is not. Methanol can move through the porous soil and reach the groundwater in a short time. It can also dissolve and carry BTEX compounds through the porous soil. Therefore, fast cleanup of the permeable soil which is contaminated with BTEX and methanol is crucial. Chlorine dioxide is an oxidizer, which is easy to use and safe to transport; and may be considered as a treatment technique for soil cleanup. Keywords: Groundwater, soil contamination, BTEX compounds, methanol, chlorine dioxide, soil cleanup