Abstract Submission 29-31 October 2014 – Jupiters Casino, Gold Coast, Australia Comparing Conventional and Innovative Vapor Intrusion Assessment Methods to Reduce Costs and Improve Data Quality and Spatial Resolution Matt Vanderkooy1, Todd McAlary1, William Wertz1, Paul Nicholson1, Hester Groenevelt1 1 Geosyntec Consultants, 130 Research Lane Suite 2, Guelph, N1G 5G3, Canada [email protected] Session Theme relevant to: Site Characterization: Advances in Vapour Sampling Keywords: Sediment, Mercury, Methyl Mercury, PCBs, Remediation, Amendments, Sequestration Background. Current guidance documents typically recommend collecting sub-slab samples to characterize the concentrations of VOCs below a building, which is expensive and time consuming for large buildings. Multi-Incremental Sampling™ (MIS) and high volume sampling (HVS) methods are two alternative approaches for assessment. The MIS approach was based on collecting composite samples from a grid of temporary sub-slab sampling points. The HVS testing consists of extracting, monitoring and sampling soil gas at a high flow rate (hundreds or thousands of liters per minute) for 30 to 60 minutes. Approach. A demonstrations/validation study was performed for the Air Force to compare these methods with conventional Summa canister samples and analysis by EPA Method TO-15 at two slab on grade buildings at Vandenberg Air Force Base. The first building was large (50,700 ft2) with measured sub-slab TCE concentrations ranging from non-detect to 14,000 ppbv. The second building was a medium- sized (11,200 ft2) former dry cleaner facility with sub-slab PCE concentrations ranging from non-detect to 180,000 ppbv. Results of the MIS and HVS methods will be compared to the conventional Summa/TO-15 method in terms of the information gained, ease of use, and cost. Speaker Biography Matt Vanderkooy (Geosyntec Consultants) Matt is a remediation scientist working for Geosyntec based in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, and is a member of SuRF Canada and SuRF (US). He evaluates and improves the sustainability outcomes of remediation projects using footprint and life cycle assessment tools, and providing technical analysis and support for projects cleaning up contaminated sediments, soil and groundwater. Matt’s work illustrates the application of innovative methods and technologies to proven approaches for cleaning up sites while achieving combined technical, financial, and sustainability goals. His remediation and site investigation experience spans the four major environmental media: soil, groundwater, sediment and soil-vapour. He has planned and implemented site investigations and designed and managed remedies which include application 2014 EcoForum c/- Australasian Land & Groundwater Association (ALGA) 40 Hoddle St, Robertson NSW 2577 Ph 1300 789 719 m 0409 531 305 Abstract Submission 29-31 October 2014 – Jupiters Casino, Gold Coast, Australia of specialist techniques such as sediment pore water passive sampling, sediment treatability studies and chlorinated solvent bioremediation. Matt’s presentation will include demonstration of the skills and responsibilities in adapting sustainable remediation approaches to analysing and finding solutions to complex problems. Please Tick If Appropriate: þ I am a young professional with less than 5 years industry experience, less than 35 years old and wish to have my abstract considered for a young professional award*. 2014 EcoForum c/- Australasian Land & Groundwater Association (ALGA) 40 Hoddle St, Robertson NSW 2577 Ph 1300 789 719 m 0409 531 305