In dilute concentrations typically found in groundwater, perchlorate behaves conservatively, with the center of mass of the plume moving at the same
average velocity as the water. Dispersion results in the contaminant front actually moving faster than the average groundwater velocity. Perchlorate
is kinetically very stable under environmental conditions and will not react or degrade in solution under ambient conditions. Biodegradation of
perchlorate in groundwater will not occur unless significant levels of organic carbon are present, oxygen and nitrate are depleted, and
perchlorate-degrading anaerobic bacteria are present.The combination of high solubility, low sorption, and lack of degradation tends to create plumes
that are large, persistent, and difficult to remediate.
|