Vapor intrusion site characterization - Why invest the time, effort and money in modeling?

Kelly G. Pennell, Ozgur Bozkurt, Eric M. Suuberg

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Designing and implementing sampling plans to characterize vapor intrusion (VI) risks can be difficult. In addition to different jurisdictions having different requirements, the literature contains conflicting data and recommendations. In general, scientific understanding lags behind the need to assess risks. To date, several VI models have been developed to aid scientific understanding, but most models have been designed as binary screening tools - assessing whether or not a site warrants more investigation. A very small number of more advanced models have been developed to help answer specific questions about vapor phase fate and transport processes. Properly developed 3-D models can provide a means to quantitatively assess the effect of various physical, chemical and biological processes on VI. Further, and very importantly, they can be used to inform site characterization activities by evaluating the effects of specific site features. The widely used screening models are typically not sophisticated enough for a comprehensive evaluation of vapor intrusion complexities, and tend to be very conservative. The complexity that can be incorporated into 3-D models has been rapidly increasing and considerable knowledge has been gained regarding the consequences of various site characteristics on VI rates. This paper discusses some results of the quantitative 3-D modeling research being conducted by the authors. Modeling results for scenarios that incorporate stratified geologies and common site features will be presented and compared to commonly utilized VI sampling plans. The results suggest that VI modeling can improve VI risk assessments and aid in the interpretation of field data.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAir and Waste Management Association - Vapor Intrusion Conference 2009
Pages210-232
Number of pages23
Edition180 CP
StatePublished - 2009
EventAir and Waste Management Association - Vapor Intrusion Conference 2009 - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: Jan 27 2009Jan 30 2009

Publication series

NameAir and Waste Management Association - Vapor Intrusion Conference 2009
Number180 CP
Volume1

Conference

ConferenceAir and Waste Management Association - Vapor Intrusion Conference 2009
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period1/27/091/30/09

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Filtration and Separation
  • Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes
  • Process Chemistry and Technology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Vapor intrusion site characterization - Why invest the time, effort and money in modeling?'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this