Colloid Transport and Attenuation in Saturated Porous Media

Colloids refer to particles or macromolecules with at least one dimension of 1nm~1µm. A wide range of environmental particles fall within this category including microorganisms, nanoparticles, and mineral precipitates. Understanding colloid fate and transport in porous medium not only permits more effective protection of water supplies, but also allows for the development of more effective pollutant remediation strategies. Organic matter (OM) complicates colloid behaviour. To date the influence of OM on colloid mobility in porous media has been largely qualitative. This book presents research leading to the development of multiple-pulse column techniques that may be integrated with mathematical models to quantify the effects of OM on particulate colloid attenuation in saturated porous medium. Research has investigated how two groups of environmental organic compounds, humic acids and proteins, influence particulate colloid attenuation by saturated sand. Study findings may shed light on complex colloidal behaviour in organic matter impacted environment and be useful to professionals in contaminant hydrogeology, environmental remediation, and wastewater treatment.