Nanotechnology Takes Roots

by Robert Glazier, Senior Consultant & Associate; Golder Associates Inc., Cherry Hill, NJ,
Ramesh Venkatakrishnan, Senior Practice Leader; Golder Associates Inc., Cherry Hill, NJ,
Florin Gheorghiu, Principal; Golder Associates Inc., Cherry Hill, NJ,
Lindsey Walata, Environmental Engineer; GlaxoSmithKline Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC,
Robert Nash, P.E., Manager; Environmental Affairs, GlaxoSmithKline Inc., Research Triangle Park, NC,
Wei-Xian Zhang, Associate Professor; Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 2003, Vol. 73, Issue 5, Pg. 64-69


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Nanoscale particles of zero-valent iron with a trace of noble metal catalyst are punching well above their weight in the area of environmental remediation. Their ability to destroy a wide range of recalcitrant contaminants derives both from their generosity in donating electrons and from their high surface area. As an added benefit, the decrease in oxidation-reduction potential that follows the reactions with contaminants creates conditions favorable to the remedial activities of anaerobic bacteria. Small inputs are thus producing big output.

Subject Headings: Pollutants | Nanomechanics | Vegetation | Particles | Oxidation | Mitigation and remediation | Iron compounds

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