Abstract

Hazardous waste site investigations have shown that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be transported via sewer pipes and migrate into indoor spaces. Despite field data confirming the presence of this exposure pathway, there is lack of context-based numerical models that provide guidance to characterize and predict VOCs concentration in sewer gas at vapor intrusion sites. Particularly, this poses a challenge when assessing and mitigating risks associated with these exposure pathways. Therefore, a numerical model has been developed to simulate the concentration of VOCs in sewer gas in different stages throughout the sewer lines. The developed model considers various input parameters, including temperature, sewer liquid depth, groundwater depth, and sewer construction characteristics to incorporate local and operational conditions. The model’s output is verified using field data from a sewer system constructed near a Superfund site. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the model’s response to variation of the external input parameters. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first attempt to model VOCs concentration in sewer gas, particularly to address vapor intrusion. The developed model can be used as a numerical tool to support the development of sewer assessment guidelines, risk assessment studies, and mitigation strategies.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2021

Notes/Citation Information

© 2021, National Ground Water Association

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1111/gwmr.12449

Funding Information

The project described is supported by University of Kentucky Superfund Research Program Grant P42 ES007380, by UK-CARES Grant P30 ES026529 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and by Grant Number 1452800 from the National Science Foundation. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Library of Medicine, or the National Science Foundation.

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