SREL’s studies in remediation began as the result of its expansion of research into the area of environmental chemistry in the early ‘80s. This expansion, combined with the lab’s established expertise in ecological research, prompted the development of innovative technologies to assist the U.S. Department of Energy and its contractors on the Savannah River Site to remediate, or clean up contaminated aquatic and terrestrial systems on the site.
This research has produced numerous publications, and SREL scientists have been awarded several patents for developing novel and improved remediation strategies.
Investigations have focused on green and minimally invasive approaches to remediation, including phytoremediation, in-situ, or in place immobilization of contaminants in soils, and the manipulation of subsurface processes to facilitate the reduction and oxidation of groundwater contaminants.
Scientists conduct laboratory studies that clarify the mechanics of groundwater chemistry and the surface reactions that result from those mechanics that can impact the success or failure of remediation efforts on a wide-field scale.
SREL’s collaborations with on-site and off-site entities assist DOE to make informed decisions in developing remediation methods that are both efficient and cost-effective for cleaning up contaminated environments on the site. The development, evaluation, and implementation of these technologies reduce negative impacts to ecosystem health.