The latest oxidant to gain widespread use is persulfate which has a high oxidation potential on activation to the sulfate radical, exhibits widespread reactivity towards organic compounds, is relatively stable in near neutral aqueous solutions, and has a minimal impact on soil microorganisms.  However, little is known about persulfate interaction with potentially reductive and catalytic constituents in aquifer materials, and its stability in groundwater systems.

We are attempting to identify relevant aquifer material properties that control the stability of persulfate in the presence of multiple aquifer solids, and define kinetic parameters that can be used in predictive tools for the design of a persulfate-based ISCO system.  Our observations are of practical interest and provide the most comprehensive picture of persulfate decomposition in the presence of typical aquifer materials.