Enhancing Environmental Remediation: Advanced Polymer Systems for Optimized Controlled Release

Abstract Submission: Groundwater contamination by anthropogenic pollutants continues to pose a serious threat to water quality. This research explores the use of polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) in combination with sodium persulfate for the in-situ remediation of contaminants susceptible to chemical oxidation. Sodium persulfate has been identified as a highly effective oxidant for the degradation of a range of organic contaminants, including chlorinated solvents, hydrocarbons, and other persistent pollutants commonly found in groundwater.

Our study focuses on the interaction between biodegradable polymers and sodium persulfate to enhance the oxidative breakdown of contaminants while minimizing potential secondary pollution or residual by-products. Laboratory-scale experiments have demonstrated that PVA can serve as a delivery mechanism, stabilizing sodium persulfate and enabling sustained release, which improves contaminant degradation over time. The research also investigates the environmental factors influencing the effectiveness of this combined treatment, such as pH, temperature, and the soil matrix.

Preliminary results indicate that this innovative approach could significantly improve the efficacy of persulfate oxidation in the field, offering a promising solution for the sustainable remediation of contaminated groundwater. This presentation will cover the experimental findings, mechanisms of action, and future implications for large-scale application of biodegradable polymer-assisted persulfate treatments in groundwater remediation.

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