ELECTROKINETIC REMEDIATION .1. MODELING OF SIMPLE SYSTEMS

A one-dimensional model is developed for simulating the electrokinetic treatment of saturated porous media contaminated with an ionic salt. Simulations of simple, unenhanced electrokinetic treatment for the rem oval of a nonamphoteric salt such as cadmium sulfate exhibit a severe drop-off in electric current and in remediation rate after about 50-60 % of the cation has been removed. Simulation of electrokinetic treatme nt in which the OH- generated in the cathode compartment is partially neutralized by the addition of acid show rapid and complete removal of the cation. Partial neutralization of H+ in the anode compartment by addition of base results in immobilization of the toxic metal as the s olid hydroxide, although this should be a useful technique for the rem oval of arsenate and selenate.