Research activities are focusing on finding solutions to DOE subsurface contamination problems which include:
Contaminated vadose zones, mixed contaminant plumes, and mixed-waste burial grounds are associated with specific INL facilities, thus the research is relevant to INL needs. Mixed contaminant soils however are not represented by an INL facility example, but are focused on contaminants common to INL soils.
The key to developing new methodologies and technologies is an enhanced understanding of the physical, geochemical, and biological processes along with a robust comprehension of the regional context for each site. The research capabilities and direction will significantly enhance DOE’’s environmental management mission by developing an improved scientific basis at both the laboratory and the field scale for defining cleanup and preparing for the long-term stewardship of DOE lands.
DOE’s contamination problems occur at numerous locations throughout the US. Contaminants (e.g., uranium) and the type of problems (e.g., mixed-waste burial grounds) at the INL will focus on the following:
- Provide specific understanding that can address INL long-term environmental problems
- Provide general information that is applicable to other DOE sites and facilities
- Allow integration of science activities into operational needs
- Maximize the transfer of research results to environmental opertaions
- Contacts:
- Mark Ankeny, (208) 526-5748, Send E-mail