Decision Analytics Applied to Emerging Contaminant Sampling Using 1,4-Dioxane and Perfluorinated Compounds as Examples

摘要

Background/Objectives. Discovery of chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) at already established remediation sites can have a significant impact on the schedule, cost, and effectiveness of remedial programs. Assuming promulgated regulatory drivers exist requiring assessment of probable contaminants at the site, it is critical to apply a robust decision-making process to ensure that likely contaminants are properly identified, but also to avoid unnecessary sampling time and expense. Unlike early characterization phases at newly identified hazardous waste sites, established remediation programs typically have a wealth of knowledge about hazardous materials used, housekeeping practices, circumstances of release, and distribution of known site co-contaminants. Within this framework of knowledge, valuable information can be gleaned regarding the likelihood of a given CEC being present and even at what levels it might occur. Additionally, key chemical characteristics of the specific CEC, such as solubility, vapor pressure, and sorption coefficient, govern the media likely to be impacted, and therefore can help focus a given sampling effort and avoid sampling of media less likely to be impacted.