Fate and Transport Studies and Modeling

Hydrogeological characterization and fate and transport modeling affects the performance of any remediation technology deployed at a site. To effectively remediate a site and optimize the use of time and resources, contamination must be sufficiently characterized using sound judgment to interpret available data. By delineating and understanding the geology and hydrogeology, our experts design strong conceptual site models, remediate groundwater, and employ beneficial reuse of sediments.

Hydrogeologic Investigations and Fate and Transport Studies

Hydrogeologic investigations and fate and transport studies help clients better understand directions, pathways, and rates of groundwater flow. They also shed light on potential contaminants and the extent of contamination in the subsurface environment. They address potential receptors of groundwater, including surface-water features, ecological habitats, and potable or irrigation wells. Our innovative approaches to site conceptualization frequently challenge traditional notions about site characterization and development of remedial strategies.

Fate and Transport: Collecting Useful Data in the Field

In the field, we employ borehole exploration, including coring, and two- and three-dimensional mapping of surface features. For groundwater flow information, we monitor water elevations in wells and adjacent surface waters, and we perform aquifer tests using pumping or slug tests. We also conduct laboratory analyses of cores and borehole flowmeters. For subsurface chemistry, we collect soil and groundwater samples for sediment analysis. If light or dense nonaqueous-phase liquid (LNAPL or DNAPL) is present, samples are collected, and the thickness of free product is measured.

Geosyntec's reliable data, coupled with our novel thinking, leads to a clearer understanding of site concepts by all parties involved. By implementing innovative remedies that emerge from our analysis of a site's hydrogeological conditions, we often find cost-saving strategies.

Fate and Transport and Regulation Compliance

Additionally, Geosyntec practitioners offer clients a wealth of site characterization experience in many regulatory environments. These range from state-led programs and projects regulated under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) to those regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Our professionals have the experience and technical knowledge to effectively advocate for innovative remedial strategies on behalf of our clients.

For more than 30 years, Geosyntec engineers and scientists have been recognized by industry peers for their skill in the modeling of contaminant fate and transport in environmental media like soil, groundwater, and sediment. After investigating the chemical, biological, or photolytic reactions occurring among contaminants of concern (fate) and how the contaminants move through impacted media (transport), our practitioners employ this data to build strong site characterizations and ecological risk assessments.