Vadose Zone : Science and Technology Solutions (2 Volume Set)

Vadose Zone Science and Technology Solutions is a new, comprehensive reference on characterizing and modeling vadose zone systems and the behavior and cleanup of vadose zone contamination. Developed under the direction of the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science and Technology, this book documents the state of the art in vadose science in a practical and, most importantly, useful manner. The book presents technical and scientific issues (knowns and unknowns), challenges, and practical strategies. Throughout the book and on its companion CD, over 130 case studies illustrate the scientific issues in a direct and compelling manner.

Under the editorial direction of Brian Looney and Ron Falta, this book is the culmination of over two years' work, including three national workshops, with input, suggestions, and contributions from over one hundred scientists and engineers. Chapter authors include some of the best-known and most experienced characterization, modeling, and remediation experts.

Vadose Zone Science and Technology Solutions describes all aspects of comprehensive vadose zone program development, including basic hydrogeology, characterization, and contaminant behavior. The book §

Introduces and defines the vadose zone and vadose zone contamination, including a detailed discussion of the fundamental physical and chemical processes §

Discusses the components needed to formulate a cost-effective and responsible "comprehensive vadose zone program" §

Describes baseline and state-of-the-art vadose zone characterization methods, including classic tensiometers and samplers and surface and borehole geophysics §

Describes the fate and transport of vadose zone contaminants, including discussions of chemistry, geology, and modeling §

Documents the state of the art for containment and remediation of vadose zone contaminants §

At each stage, identifies gaps in current understanding and various solutions or suggestions for filling these gaps §

Presents a future technology focus.

Case studies (sidebar, topical, and comprehensive) throughout the chapters and on the companion CD provide practical field data on specific scientific issues. These case studies address specific techniques as well as overall chapter topics (e.g., characterization and monitoring). Comprehensive case studies in the book and its companion CD also address sites where characterization, monitoring, modeling, and cleanup have been integrated.

Written at a college graduate science level, the book provides information on complex problem definitions and core vadose zone science, and identifies the science gaps that must be addressed to ensure comprehensive solutions for vadose zone problems. This book will be useful to problem owners, those responsible for identifying and applying cleanup technologies; researchers and consultants, those who provide technical guidance; managers, those responsible for establishing vadose zone cleanup strategies and allocating funds; technical decision makers, those interested in scientifically sound and technically defensible programs; and the university and academic communities.