Comparison of pumped and diffusion sampling methods to monitor concentrations of perchlorate and explosive compounds in ground water, Camp Edwards, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, 2004-05

Scientific Investigations Report 2008-5109
Prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Army Environmental Command
By:  and 

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Abstract

Laboratory and field tests were conducted at Camp Edwards on the Massachusetts Military Reservation on Cape Cod to examine the utility of passive diffusion sampling for long-term monitoring of concentrations of perchlorate and explosive compounds in ground water. The diffusion samplers were constructed of 1-inch-diameter rigid, porous polyethylene tubing. The results of laboratory tests in which diffusion samplers were submerged in containers filled with ground water containing perchlorate, RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine), and HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine) indicate that concentrations inside the diffusion samplers equilibrated with concentrations in the containers within the 19-day-long test period. Field tests of the diffusion samplers were conducted in 15 wells constructed of 2- or 2.5-inch-diameter polyvinyl chloride pipe with 10-foot-long slotted screens. Concentrations of perchlorate, RDX, and HMX in the diffusion samplers placed in the wells for 42 to 52 days were compared to concentrations in samples collected by low-flow pumped sampling from 53 days before to 109 days after retrieval of the diffusion samples. The results of the field tests indicate generally good agreement between the pumped and diffusion samples for concentrations of perchlorate, RDX, and HMX. The concentration differences indicate no systematic bias related to contaminant type or concentration levels.

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Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Comparison of pumped and diffusion sampling methods to monitor concentrations of perchlorate and explosive compounds in ground water, Camp Edwards, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, 2004-05
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2008-5109
ISBN 9781411322646
DOI 10.3133/sir20085109
Year Published 2008
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) New England Water Science Center, Toxic Substances Hydrology Program
Description vi, 17 p.
Time Range Start 2004-01-01
Time Range End 2005-12-31
Country United States
State Massachusetts
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