Evaluation of Natural Zeolite as a Material for Permeable Reactive Barrier for Remediation of Zinc-Contaminated Groundwater Based on Column Study

The permeable reactive barrier (PRB) filled with natural zeolite plays the role of a reactive treatment zone for remediation of contaminated groundwater. Based on column lab experiments, the volume of remediated solution, the distribution (Kd) and retardation (Rd) coefficients were evaluated, confirming successful removal and retention of zinc from contaminated groundwater. The effect of hydrodynamic dispersion on zinc capturing by zeolite in PRB was evaluated by the hydrodynamic dispersion coefficient (DL) and retarded hydrodynamic dispersion coefficient (DLR) using the Brigham method. For different assumed distances of the barrier, the simulation of one-dimensional zinc concentration profile from the point source through the barrier has been modeled by a simple analytical pulse model. The results show that the flow rate has the most significant effect on the concentration profile, peaks, and broadening of curves. The residence contact time (τ) corresponding to higher Kd and Rd as well as lower DL and DLR values outcomes the optimal range of 6.2–9.4 min. This interval corresponds to the experimental performance at the bed length of 8 and 12 cm and flow rate in the range of 6.38–9.57 PV/h. The calculated minimum thickness and longevity confirm the successful application of zeolite as a material in PRB for remediation of zinc contaminated groundwater.