Agronomy Co-op – Eastern Wisconsin

ORIN conducted direct injection treatment to target groundwater contaminated with Alachlor using BAM, a pyrolized cellulosic material. Previously, an excavation was completed to try and remove the contaminated soil and the source of groundwater contamination. After little effect at reducing the concentrations BAM was selected. First, a treatability test was conducted to prove BAM could reduce alachlor at the site. With successful results field scale treatment was applied. Twelve injection points were utilized for treating a 1,190-ft2 area.

The Challenge

The site presented specific challenges:

• High Alachlor concentrations: 12,000 µg/L
• Failed previous excavation attempt
• Persistent groundwater contamination
• 1,190-ft² treatment area
• Need for proven solution

The Solution: Strategic Approach

The team implemented a two-phase strategy:

1. Validation Phase:
   • Initial treatability testing
   • BAM effectiveness verification
   • Treatment protocol development
   • Success criteria establishment
2. Implementation Phase:
   • 12 strategic injection points
   • BAM material deployment
   • Rapid response monitoring
   • Long-term effectiveness tracking

Remarkable Results Timeline

The treatment showed impressive progress:

24 Hours Post-Treatment:

• Initial concentration: 12,000 µg/L
• Reduced to: 6,000 µg/L
• Achievement: 50% reduction

40 Days Post-Treatment:

• Final concentration: significantly reduced
• Total reduction: 97.9%
• Exceeded expectations
• Validated treatment approach

Key Success Factors

Several elements contributed to the exceptional outcome:

1. Comprehensive treatability testing
2. Strategic injection point placement
3. Optimal BAM deployment
4. Rapid monitoring program
5. Long-term effectiveness tracking

Innovation Highlights

The project demonstrated several advantages:

• Superior to traditional excavation
• Rapid initial response
• Continued improvement over time
• Minimal site disruption
• Proven effectiveness

Practical Applications

This success provides solutions for:

• Agricultural chemical contamination
• Failed remediation sites
• Groundwater treatment
• Complex contamination scenarios
• Sites requiring rapid response

This case study demonstrates how innovative technology can succeed where traditional methods fall short, providing a new standard for agricultural chemical remediation.