RCRA RECORDS CENTER
FACILITY G f fiRi^ji ID NOKfrDooa ois Vo bull a PILE LOC I-S OTHER 2I^Vr^
November 30 1989
Mr Anthony F Palermo Environmental Scientist Toxic Substances Control Section US Environmental Protection Agency JF Kennedy Federal Building Boston MA 02203-2211
Ms Joan Blake US Environmental Protection Agency (TS 798 6401 M Street NW Washington DC 20406
Re Request for Permit to Perform Researcn and Development on a Biological Method of Elimination of PCBs from Sediments ilaquo-7 - v mdash -WoodsmdashPendmdashBerkshire eurootmtyy- MA GE CERT-PFC01
Dear Mr Palermo and Ms Blake
Biological degradation is a potentially effective alternative to incineration in the elimination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from sediments and soils General Electric proposes to explore this technology and to search for ways to increase its efficiency The proposed studies would be conducted on a scale which mimics biodegradation as it right occur in practice but which allows control of the process variables in ways which approach that found in laboratory conditions
The Environmental and Facility Operation of General Electric therefore requests a permit to conduct a research and development project entitled GE BETS-RPOO| The proposed project is described in detail in the attached supporting document
The main thrust of this project is to address the remediation of PCB-containing sediments or soils found in Western Massachusetts but the results may well have broader implications We would be pleased to discuss this project with representatives from Region I andor the Washington office of EPA
SDMS DocID 000213343
Mr Anthony F Palermo Ms Joan Blake November 30 1989 Page - 2 shy
It should be noted that a concurrent request is being rade for a permit to conduct a research and development project entitled BETS RP-002 These projects are and will rerain distinct However both involve many of the same sites an materials and you may find it effective to consider ther simultaneously
We will be happy to supply any additional information need-and look forward to discussing this request as your deliberations go forward
Yours truly
Grant Bowman Manager - Environmental Engineering
Ijr
Enclosures
cc RF Desgroseilliers TO Rouse
REQUEST FTP FEFXIT TT FEPFCFM FESEAPCH AM) LEVELCF
CN A BIXOGITAL XETH3E TEFFAFIFM1 TF E L I X I N A T I C N
POLYCHL2FINATZD EIFHEfTLS FCBs FPOX SEnMENTS -NT
by
GENERAL ELECTF 100 ^oodlawn Avenue Pittsfield MA 012C1
Noveinber 2C 1989
Questions concerning this request should be addressed to TO Fouse ( 413494-3947 or GG Bowman 413 4Q4-OP
IJTCDJCTICN
II PROJECT rESCPIPTICN
1 E i o r e a r t c r
C Process Feed -tocts
T Process Aaste T i s p c s a l
in SAMPLING AD ANALYSIS
IV PPOJECT 2-ALITi ASSJFANCE PLAN
V PEPOPTS
VI SCHEDULE
Appendix A Center for Enviroi imentsi R e m e d i a t i o n
Acoendix B Jmvjeltschutz Nord Gmbh i Cc
rEQUEET TT FrFF_FM F^SEAFCH AlT ZEYELIF-E T IN A EICLDGIC-L vETr_I
TEKr bull-FT ~ bull F LIMIN-TCN ~ - ^ - ^-
TTTJT-V C-TT-
GENERftL ELECTRIC
100 VvoGdiawn Avenge
Fittsfield MA 01201
Biclgic3l remediation 13 a potentially attractive alternative ~o n c i - - r shy
processes - the e inrrt ion cf PCBs from sediments and soils In parti
ciclcsical treatment -ffers attracti-e possibilities for i --s
eiinnaticn Eefrre tue lability of 3 particular process can
in a fully engineered test dene in actual s-jrroirdirgs it is necessary tr rnshy
^jct research and development to I 1 shov that the particular process ^nder
consideration vail indeed eliminate PCBs frcrr the particular ratrix f concern
12) conduct parametric studies cf process variables to provide ^pti^ized rendishy
tions for efficient full scale testing and (3) evaluate the operational rrrshy
trols necessary for safe operation of the process and disposal of process
residues and products Much information on a process can be generated ~- ct-dshy
les in the laboratory However to evaluate the 1 tin-ate effectiveness and
rests f the process in a reliable vay in order to decide -nether to _rdert3-e
a full scale test and to then design a proper demonstration req_ires trat tne
process be examned at a scale intermediate cetweer that in the l^c and tr3t
the field In conventional chemical engineering terms the prccess mould ce
evaluated in a pilot plant
This document is a request to conduct P amp D at the pilot plant scale en the F-TE
elimination process described below It is requested that this permit be
granted for one year with the possibility cf renewal for one year This vork
would be done at the General Electric Center for Environmental Remediation Techshy
nology CCERT) facility located on East Street in Pittsfield MA r Appendix A 1
The responsible anacer is G Grant Bowman anager - Environmental E o
Pittsfield Area Environmental and Facilities ceraticr EFC - 413 4a4shy
-OCEpoundpound LESTFIFT ~i
yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
Mr Anthony F Palermo Ms Joan Blake November 30 1989 Page - 2 shy
It should be noted that a concurrent request is being rade for a permit to conduct a research and development project entitled BETS RP-002 These projects are and will rerain distinct However both involve many of the same sites an materials and you may find it effective to consider ther simultaneously
We will be happy to supply any additional information need-and look forward to discussing this request as your deliberations go forward
Yours truly
Grant Bowman Manager - Environmental Engineering
Ijr
Enclosures
cc RF Desgroseilliers TO Rouse
REQUEST FTP FEFXIT TT FEPFCFM FESEAPCH AM) LEVELCF
CN A BIXOGITAL XETH3E TEFFAFIFM1 TF E L I X I N A T I C N
POLYCHL2FINATZD EIFHEfTLS FCBs FPOX SEnMENTS -NT
by
GENERAL ELECTF 100 ^oodlawn Avenue Pittsfield MA 012C1
Noveinber 2C 1989
Questions concerning this request should be addressed to TO Fouse ( 413494-3947 or GG Bowman 413 4Q4-OP
IJTCDJCTICN
II PROJECT rESCPIPTICN
1 E i o r e a r t c r
C Process Feed -tocts
T Process Aaste T i s p c s a l
in SAMPLING AD ANALYSIS
IV PPOJECT 2-ALITi ASSJFANCE PLAN
V PEPOPTS
VI SCHEDULE
Appendix A Center for Enviroi imentsi R e m e d i a t i o n
Acoendix B Jmvjeltschutz Nord Gmbh i Cc
rEQUEET TT FrFF_FM F^SEAFCH AlT ZEYELIF-E T IN A EICLDGIC-L vETr_I
TEKr bull-FT ~ bull F LIMIN-TCN ~ - ^ - ^-
TTTJT-V C-TT-
GENERftL ELECTRIC
100 VvoGdiawn Avenge
Fittsfield MA 01201
Biclgic3l remediation 13 a potentially attractive alternative ~o n c i - - r shy
processes - the e inrrt ion cf PCBs from sediments and soils In parti
ciclcsical treatment -ffers attracti-e possibilities for i --s
eiinnaticn Eefrre tue lability of 3 particular process can
in a fully engineered test dene in actual s-jrroirdirgs it is necessary tr rnshy
^jct research and development to I 1 shov that the particular process ^nder
consideration vail indeed eliminate PCBs frcrr the particular ratrix f concern
12) conduct parametric studies cf process variables to provide ^pti^ized rendishy
tions for efficient full scale testing and (3) evaluate the operational rrrshy
trols necessary for safe operation of the process and disposal of process
residues and products Much information on a process can be generated ~- ct-dshy
les in the laboratory However to evaluate the 1 tin-ate effectiveness and
rests f the process in a reliable vay in order to decide -nether to _rdert3-e
a full scale test and to then design a proper demonstration req_ires trat tne
process be examned at a scale intermediate cetweer that in the l^c and tr3t
the field In conventional chemical engineering terms the prccess mould ce
evaluated in a pilot plant
This document is a request to conduct P amp D at the pilot plant scale en the F-TE
elimination process described below It is requested that this permit be
granted for one year with the possibility cf renewal for one year This vork
would be done at the General Electric Center for Environmental Remediation Techshy
nology CCERT) facility located on East Street in Pittsfield MA r Appendix A 1
The responsible anacer is G Grant Bowman anager - Environmental E o
Pittsfield Area Environmental and Facilities ceraticr EFC - 413 4a4shy
-OCEpoundpound LESTFIFT ~i
yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
REQUEST FTP FEFXIT TT FEPFCFM FESEAPCH AM) LEVELCF
CN A BIXOGITAL XETH3E TEFFAFIFM1 TF E L I X I N A T I C N
POLYCHL2FINATZD EIFHEfTLS FCBs FPOX SEnMENTS -NT
by
GENERAL ELECTF 100 ^oodlawn Avenue Pittsfield MA 012C1
Noveinber 2C 1989
Questions concerning this request should be addressed to TO Fouse ( 413494-3947 or GG Bowman 413 4Q4-OP
IJTCDJCTICN
II PROJECT rESCPIPTICN
1 E i o r e a r t c r
C Process Feed -tocts
T Process Aaste T i s p c s a l
in SAMPLING AD ANALYSIS
IV PPOJECT 2-ALITi ASSJFANCE PLAN
V PEPOPTS
VI SCHEDULE
Appendix A Center for Enviroi imentsi R e m e d i a t i o n
Acoendix B Jmvjeltschutz Nord Gmbh i Cc
rEQUEET TT FrFF_FM F^SEAFCH AlT ZEYELIF-E T IN A EICLDGIC-L vETr_I
TEKr bull-FT ~ bull F LIMIN-TCN ~ - ^ - ^-
TTTJT-V C-TT-
GENERftL ELECTRIC
100 VvoGdiawn Avenge
Fittsfield MA 01201
Biclgic3l remediation 13 a potentially attractive alternative ~o n c i - - r shy
processes - the e inrrt ion cf PCBs from sediments and soils In parti
ciclcsical treatment -ffers attracti-e possibilities for i --s
eiinnaticn Eefrre tue lability of 3 particular process can
in a fully engineered test dene in actual s-jrroirdirgs it is necessary tr rnshy
^jct research and development to I 1 shov that the particular process ^nder
consideration vail indeed eliminate PCBs frcrr the particular ratrix f concern
12) conduct parametric studies cf process variables to provide ^pti^ized rendishy
tions for efficient full scale testing and (3) evaluate the operational rrrshy
trols necessary for safe operation of the process and disposal of process
residues and products Much information on a process can be generated ~- ct-dshy
les in the laboratory However to evaluate the 1 tin-ate effectiveness and
rests f the process in a reliable vay in order to decide -nether to _rdert3-e
a full scale test and to then design a proper demonstration req_ires trat tne
process be examned at a scale intermediate cetweer that in the l^c and tr3t
the field In conventional chemical engineering terms the prccess mould ce
evaluated in a pilot plant
This document is a request to conduct P amp D at the pilot plant scale en the F-TE
elimination process described below It is requested that this permit be
granted for one year with the possibility cf renewal for one year This vork
would be done at the General Electric Center for Environmental Remediation Techshy
nology CCERT) facility located on East Street in Pittsfield MA r Appendix A 1
The responsible anacer is G Grant Bowman anager - Environmental E o
Pittsfield Area Environmental and Facilities ceraticr EFC - 413 4a4shy
-OCEpoundpound LESTFIFT ~i
yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
IJTCDJCTICN
II PROJECT rESCPIPTICN
1 E i o r e a r t c r
C Process Feed -tocts
T Process Aaste T i s p c s a l
in SAMPLING AD ANALYSIS
IV PPOJECT 2-ALITi ASSJFANCE PLAN
V PEPOPTS
VI SCHEDULE
Appendix A Center for Enviroi imentsi R e m e d i a t i o n
Acoendix B Jmvjeltschutz Nord Gmbh i Cc
rEQUEET TT FrFF_FM F^SEAFCH AlT ZEYELIF-E T IN A EICLDGIC-L vETr_I
TEKr bull-FT ~ bull F LIMIN-TCN ~ - ^ - ^-
TTTJT-V C-TT-
GENERftL ELECTRIC
100 VvoGdiawn Avenge
Fittsfield MA 01201
Biclgic3l remediation 13 a potentially attractive alternative ~o n c i - - r shy
processes - the e inrrt ion cf PCBs from sediments and soils In parti
ciclcsical treatment -ffers attracti-e possibilities for i --s
eiinnaticn Eefrre tue lability of 3 particular process can
in a fully engineered test dene in actual s-jrroirdirgs it is necessary tr rnshy
^jct research and development to I 1 shov that the particular process ^nder
consideration vail indeed eliminate PCBs frcrr the particular ratrix f concern
12) conduct parametric studies cf process variables to provide ^pti^ized rendishy
tions for efficient full scale testing and (3) evaluate the operational rrrshy
trols necessary for safe operation of the process and disposal of process
residues and products Much information on a process can be generated ~- ct-dshy
les in the laboratory However to evaluate the 1 tin-ate effectiveness and
rests f the process in a reliable vay in order to decide -nether to _rdert3-e
a full scale test and to then design a proper demonstration req_ires trat tne
process be examned at a scale intermediate cetweer that in the l^c and tr3t
the field In conventional chemical engineering terms the prccess mould ce
evaluated in a pilot plant
This document is a request to conduct P amp D at the pilot plant scale en the F-TE
elimination process described below It is requested that this permit be
granted for one year with the possibility cf renewal for one year This vork
would be done at the General Electric Center for Environmental Remediation Techshy
nology CCERT) facility located on East Street in Pittsfield MA r Appendix A 1
The responsible anacer is G Grant Bowman anager - Environmental E o
Pittsfield Area Environmental and Facilities ceraticr EFC - 413 4a4shy
-OCEpoundpound LESTFIFT ~i
yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
rEQUEET TT FrFF_FM F^SEAFCH AlT ZEYELIF-E T IN A EICLDGIC-L vETr_I
TEKr bull-FT ~ bull F LIMIN-TCN ~ - ^ - ^-
TTTJT-V C-TT-
GENERftL ELECTRIC
100 VvoGdiawn Avenge
Fittsfield MA 01201
Biclgic3l remediation 13 a potentially attractive alternative ~o n c i - - r shy
processes - the e inrrt ion cf PCBs from sediments and soils In parti
ciclcsical treatment -ffers attracti-e possibilities for i --s
eiinnaticn Eefrre tue lability of 3 particular process can
in a fully engineered test dene in actual s-jrroirdirgs it is necessary tr rnshy
^jct research and development to I 1 shov that the particular process ^nder
consideration vail indeed eliminate PCBs frcrr the particular ratrix f concern
12) conduct parametric studies cf process variables to provide ^pti^ized rendishy
tions for efficient full scale testing and (3) evaluate the operational rrrshy
trols necessary for safe operation of the process and disposal of process
residues and products Much information on a process can be generated ~- ct-dshy
les in the laboratory However to evaluate the 1 tin-ate effectiveness and
rests f the process in a reliable vay in order to decide -nether to _rdert3-e
a full scale test and to then design a proper demonstration req_ires trat tne
process be examned at a scale intermediate cetweer that in the l^c and tr3t
the field In conventional chemical engineering terms the prccess mould ce
evaluated in a pilot plant
This document is a request to conduct P amp D at the pilot plant scale en the F-TE
elimination process described below It is requested that this permit be
granted for one year with the possibility cf renewal for one year This vork
would be done at the General Electric Center for Environmental Remediation Techshy
nology CCERT) facility located on East Street in Pittsfield MA r Appendix A 1
The responsible anacer is G Grant Bowman anager - Environmental E o
Pittsfield Area Environmental and Facilities ceraticr EFC - 413 4a4shy
-OCEpoundpound LESTFIFT ~i
yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
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yvELTSCHJTI NCPP G~bn ST f Zander --es-e IF NCRD as
TERRAFIFM 5IOSYSTEM SOIL a cclgicsi sil eoie-erjtcn etroo - 3 E 3 3
7ic_re Ii this process a soil to be treatec is analyzed or rcnto~i~5-t
contents nutrient 1 eve is and structure The nest appropriate prrcrarr for
contaminant degradation s selected after measurement of the enzymatic c^rrshy
cver potential the native microbial activity and the microbial -clonizati
Microbes adapted to the contaminants of concern are isolated fror me soil
Foreign objects are removed and the soil is pulverized and mixed with seeten
organic suostrate mineral nutrients and trace elements The soil is tnen culshy
tured with the adapted micrcoes and fungi while being intensively oersted
The ^rganic suostrate ~ a -xtue f partially fermented -_~rst - car-
otraw wood chips sawdust and otrer organ 10 wastes TKe ritrg-n - p-ocp-ate
balance f the nutrients is particularly i~portant in the degradatir -ydrcshy
carrocrs ther oxygen carriers such as nitrates or hydrcaen peroxide can re aoshy
ded n special cases The process takes place in a completely enclosed fer^enshy
tation reactor in which temperature and water and oxygen content together ~itr
nutrient levels and microbiai population can be maintained to select cpti-v
levels The TERRAFIFM process has been successfully demonstrated in Europe for
crude ciesel and aged oil spills in soils Hydrocarbon levels nave ree- reshy
duced from 20000 ppm and higher to lt1000 ppm in 15 to 14 weexs
Many studies have srown that complete biodegradaticn of mixtures f FC5s reshy
quires cooperation of several species of microorganisms requiring a range _ t
nutrient and energy sources Aerobic and non-aerobic conditions and water
content also must be regulated and possibly varied for rapid and complete PC3
degradation Inoculation of the soilssediments of ooncerr with specialzed
microorganisms alone may not be sufficient and the process conditions rust re
suitable for additional micrcnial activity Demonstration of praotcal ~-1~
bioremediation requires that this complex set of variables and then i-tepl=y
be optimized for any given soil or sediment Preliminary work by 3RT n o-e
soil matrix however has shewn that the TERRAFIRM method can ieduce FC5 levels
from 100 to lt1 ppm in 14 weexs in laboratory tests in percolating soil rcl^-rs
and from 10 to lt1 ppm in 26 weeks in field trials
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
The aoais it tis project 5re t estaci i te teasiDility ol removal -i PIE
rroin sediments and soi-pound ry trie TERRAFIFM Mietroo to evaluate tne erfeot L _shy
ress variables in a pilot scale cioreactcr and to make an estimate f --e
costs snd ctner factors affectina the application of this approach to practice
remediation This project is a joint undertaking by Nord and GE Nord w i l l _-shy
ierta^e responsibility for providing the reactor and control panel design
experiments and operation and sampling of the reactor during the experi~ierta
program and collection and analysis of the data ootained during cperatir 3E
CEPT vraquoill be responsible fr providing a properly monitored and controlled enshy
closed facility for operation of the pilot reactor and for its installation
and its removal [Figure 2 1 CERT will supply sediments or soils anc itner
nateriais required in the testing nd will provide for tne prorer rtorage
handling and disposal of process feed stocks and wastes Analysis cf PCBs - i l l
e done ~-j the Environmental Laboratory of Pittsfield GE vr i rh --11 ils
provide appropriately controlled laboratory facilities for Nord personnel to
perform microbiological and other process related studies
A Eioreactor
The pilot scale bioreactor [Figure 21 will be supplied by Nord and w i l l rcl_de
provision for aeration and heating and an instrument panel to control ard fsshy
play process variable levels This batch reactor can De filled with -12 m- cf
process feed stock and appropriate amounts of substrate nutrients and process
water Cperaticn of the reactor will be controlled by experienced no-legists
and eraineers from Nerd supported by trained GE personnel Installation mainshy
tenance and closure of the reactor and necessary services safety protocols and
spill prevention and control will be the responsibilities of CEPT ltAppendix A
and will follow the practices in place for handling PCB materials at the
Fittrfield GE plant
3 Process Variable Levels
Selection of the initial loadings for the reactor will be done by NOPD perrrrshy
nel based on the results of laboratory tests performed on each feed stocK The
choice of types and amounts of substrates and nutrients is the first task to De
completed in this study and it can only be made on completion cf the laooratory
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
tests It w^Ll oe fe -espcr-siti lity of NCRC oerscnnei to pertorT these a 2
any other tests except PCS analysis needed djrina the course f J i l o t t = stshy
ing fiord will provide the equipment for these tests and facilities ~r t-is
testio -s^ll be crovided in the Environmental Laboratory in the Pittsfielo 7E
plant Agair tre safety ard control procedures 1 rcrrral -re fe sr ~ _ 1
~pound C^ amp 1 Y i ri bullOC PQ 1 X ^
PCB levels and biological activity in the reactor will ne mcnitcrec o^nnc t-e
stjdy and moisture suDstrate and nutrient levels and temperature and ieoree
of aeration will be varied as needed to characterize the PCB remediation prcshy
ress for a given feed stock The response of bilgicol processes ~f -r type
to these ariables can be rather slow -^et 5 prirrary ooal of tris ot_oy to
-stanlish the Jepenoence f ate f PCE elirination on these variosl^s -fshy
tplusmnq_ate t~e to reacr this goal rust te provided It is planned therefore tnat
the pilot plant evaluation of a feed stock from a given site will oe continued
for no more than eighteen 118] months from its inception If effective evaluashy
tion of a given feed stock is completed in a sufficiently short ti-ne evaluashy
tion of a second and perhaps even a third feed will be undertaken Howeer
the total elapsed time for pilot plant evaluation of the NORD method will be
limited to eighteen months under this permit The permitting aceno pound ^11 ze
informed of any proposed changes in feed stock
1 Process Feed StocKS
Selection and supply of feed stocks for the process will be the responsibility
of GE CERT These will selected from sites in which GE has a specif ~ tecshy
est Attention will be concentrated initially on sediments and soils from
sites located in Western Massachusetts [eg Voods Pond - LenoxLee Silver
Lake Newell St - Pittsfield) and containing lt1000 ppm PCBs Vvater jsed i - crcshy
cessing will be that normally found with the specific feed stock Feed stocks
will be gathered using accepted methods and with all necessary approvals ard
permits Transportation to and storage and handling in CEPT facilites w
done using procedures standard for the Fittsfield GE plant Appendix A)
Should it become desirable to evaluate the application cf the TEHR~FIM
to feed stocks containing substantially higher PCB concentrations cr fror
- 4 shy
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
lying iJtside EPA Fegirn I the permitting organization s
oner to aathenra any material
Feed and waste stocks lor the pilot plant w i l l be monitored fcr FT3 a-c -r~
pollutant content and an input-output mass calance record for PCBs in the testshy
ing of the TERRAFIRM process will be maintained to assure that contr f itr
FCB inventory is reliable Storage handling and disposal proced_res zr
wastes from the rioreactor and laboratory tests wil l re based on their inishy
tial PCB classification and will re performed ry standard Fittsfield 3E ra~t
practices Appendix A In the event that the FCB level f the reartzr raquogtpoundbull e
is reduced to well below the 50 ppm level ry the oioremediati or rroressirc tne
perrrittina aaencvisi may De contacted about alternative disposal Dispose
wastes w i l l be completed within cne year of tneir removal from tne reactor
Disposal of surplus unused feed stocks will be completed within cne vear ~f the
charging of the reactor for their study
III SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
Sampling procedures for the materials in the pilot reactor during testing w i l l
oe the responsibility of Nord personnel Sampling of feed reactant and waste
materials will be responsibility of CERT personnel Standard sampling proceshy
dures will be used whenever possible It may be necessary ^c ievelip rpecial
procedures for in-process sampling the reliability of these procedures wil l re
verified and documented
PCB analysis will be done in the Environmental Laooratory of the Pittsfield GE
plant using gas chroma tography with an electron capture detector Standard 2-~shy
and monitoring practices will be followed using appropriate method blanks
spiked duplicates NBS standards etc and standard recordkeepmdash ing procedure
will adhered to (Appendix A l It may be necessary to develop special techshy
niques for removal cf interferences and to obtain special standards fr rest
quantification for this study Proper analytical practices wil l re frllrvec
and reliability of any modifications will be verified and -documented Supervishy
sion cf the analytical portion of this project will oe the i-espcnc i bi 1 ty f
Dr V v i l l i a m A Fessler Manager - Environmental Laboratory E7O
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
A quality assurance p^an for this project will oe prepared as
-he ~ET facilty ges forward It 1 ce c^c-itted ~c - ~ --bull
age ry s i refore experimental st_ciec cegin This plan wll addresc the ~=-s
listej -n Eectcn 420 f Drart jidelnes fcr Permit ccctcc r2
Demonstration Plans fcr PCE Disposal cy Non-tnermal Alternative wetrcds 3
EPA ^ua 21 1986 Those items having to do with the sampling and P B
analysis their verification custody and recordkeeping are addressed n the
present document in Section III and Appendix A Those items having to 3c with
operation of the experimental facility such as maintenance reliability and
corrective actions cannot be addressed in a credible way until the equcmet ic
in place and functionina
V PEPCPTS
Eeveal frms cf reporting are planned Single page reports will re issued ~~
note sqnificant events Regular reviews will be held to report progress a-d
plan further worx The permitting agencyls) will receive these reports ana inshy
vitations to these reviews A task report will be issued at the completic f
evaluation of the feasibility of this process for remediation cf feeci cttcshy
from each individual site Task reports will briefly summarize the level f
success of PCB removal in the test estimate the potential of the process for
remediaticn of that site and define any limitations n the process -hi c- bull-__
nave to re overcome fcr successful remediation of that site
A final report will be issued which describes in detail the operation cf the reshy
actor the procedures used to select and monitor the process parameters and
the handling and disposal of the materials and equipment uced in the project A
section of the report will be devoted to the results of the study of each feed
stock and will include an engineering evaluation of the process for that feeo
stock an estimate of the costs of remediation at that site and if approprishy
ate) an outline of a plan for the demonstration of the process at that site
This report will re issued within 90 days of completion of the project ard sill
be circulated to the permitting agencyis) and the participants in twe crc-e
VI ECHEDJLE
The schedule proposed fcr the plot plant study cf the Terrafirm crccesc s
-iv - rigure ee -jctncte he _rrea_ie mvc-ves tee ar
ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
ot itiateJ y the -end zf 13C t vail re -ecersary ti
testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
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ertr te cern t d rrcimdashal irartinu rtecr ~ e fe~d rti~ bull i rj
and he lot iilart rtudy itrelf Femcval if needed quantities f tied
recent f cm Woods Flint r-rjiier aprral ~c cermorirr f irr tne vrle
if Vater Filiation 31 ear vaters Art and f -aterways -aterways Art
ratlins fir these will be made early in 190 Stec -Fia 21
Removal f rediment an ^n^v e done ^jrira he perird if liw fliw
Housatrnic River ie from late spring ti early fall It is anticipated
all necessary permits and approvals needed for removina sediment from voods
Pone will have been obtained by the end of spring of 1990 and
fee rtcr fir -he i n i t i a l Terrafirm sturlv w i l l have reen rci^ov=
oirted ti tre CEFT faril-tv iy the end of the summer of 130 Stec
Therefore it is requested that a permit be granted which will allow
searcn project to start in October of 1990 (Step 13) Biological processes are
comparatively slow and substantial time may elapse while reliable results are
being obtained in this study It is requested that the duration of the permit
be twenty four months ending in the fall of 1992 Renewal of the permit will
be requested at the end of the first year of operation if necessary If it beshy
comes appropriate the bioreactor will be charged with fresn micrcbiai popjlashy
tions or sediments early in the second year of the project Arrangements to seshy
cure any new materials feg from Silver Lake Fittsfield VV will De mace curshy
ing the first year
Footnote 1 - Figure 1 shows the schedule planned for the TEERAFIRM prc~ert
and the preliminary steps leading to it A second and concurrent project
for the bioremediation of PCB containing sediments is described in the acrr-rmdash
panying Request for Permit to Perform Research and development in a
Biological Method of Elimination of Polychlormated Eipnenyls PCEs1 fro^
Sediments in Woods Pond Bershire County VA The schedule planned fir th
APRS project is also shown in Figure 1 The two projects are and w i l l re
ouite distinct However both involve many if the fame rites anj -E^enals
and the two schedules are shown together for the convenience of the reader
mitr1^ reo poundedire tpound c ~ Cj- - or ~ e j 12 rec 11r ~or poundr
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testing -t 1 the fall f 191 roer - e-ve ev 5ppi-5 -f ----are -~
tier - f te Fcrd and the Jelay f the -tart - the pr~ect y a year it shy
requested that a permit for the project be granted not later than July cf l9T
Step 1 1 1 Installation of the TEPPAFIFM test cay and reactor bull- tre ~ZF7
facility 12 also planned for mid-sumner iStep 121
mdash 11 shy
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REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
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Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
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Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
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Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
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Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
REQUEST FCR FEFMIT TC FERFCFM RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
ON A BIOLOGICAL METHOD f 7EREAFIFgt11 CF ELIMINATION CF
POLYCHLCFINATE2 EIFHENfLa PCEs) FPCM SEZIMEKTS AD poundC]
Appendix A
CENTER FOR ENVIRCMNENTAL FZMEDIATICN TECHNOLOGY
GFJNEKAL ELECTPIC CC ICO Vvooclsvvn -ven-e Pittsfieid MA C1201
11-1989
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
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peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Purpose A-
Section 2 shy Introduction A-I
Section 3 - Facility Description A-
Section 4 - CERT Description A-
Section 5 - Preparedness amp Prevention A-
Section 6 - Emergency Response A-
Section 7 - Security A-
Section 8 - Analytical Services A-
Section 9 - Quality Assurance A-i
Section 10 - Material Storage Ashy-
Section 11 - Waste Disposal A-
Section 12 - Safety and Training A-l
Section 13 - Decontamination A-l
Section 14 - Closure A-l
Section 15 - References A-l
Figures A-l - GE Pittsfield Site Location and Building Layout A-2 - CERT Facility Layout
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 1 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to provide information
regarding the Center for Environmental Remediation Technology
(CERT) where PCB RampD Processes will be located This Appendix
addresses each of the issues set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for TSCA Research amp Development (RSI
applications beyond those for the specific process description
and operation All the information contained in this Appendix
may not be specifically related to the particular system being
applied for in this RampD permit
CERT will be located within an existing building (Building
12) at the GE facility in Pittsfield Massachusetts The
facility and operations conducted within the facility area
designated for PCB RampD processes are based on GEs current PC-
management and laboratory practices GE has been at the
forefront in the safe handling storage and disposal cf PCBs
since the inception of TSCA
The TERRAFIRM process is a biological soil cleansing
technique which is expected to degrade PCBs in soils and
sediments The actual equipment and process are not expected
to pose any unusual risk to employee safety or the
environment The process attempts to enhance the degradation
of PCBs by microorganisms already present in the soils and
sediments These naturally occurring organisms do not pose a
hazard to human health or the environment if accidentally
released The operation of the process is similar to that of
municipal wastewater treatment and other decomposition
processes naturally occurring throughout nature
A-l
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
Generally the health and safety issues associated with the
TERRAFIRM process covered in this Appendix are those that deal
with training spill response waste disposal and
decontamination procedures Proper evaluation of this process
requires a properly equipped analytical and biological
laboratory and sufficient quality assurance procedures
particularly in regards to sterility and cleanliness of
sampling and analytical equipment The QA Project Plan will
emphasize these issues prior to commencement of operations
SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION
The CERT facility was conceived as a proving ground for
advancing remediation technologies of PCB containing materials
such as sediments and soils Current technologies are skewed
to PCB destruction by incineration an effective but costly
disposal method requiring disruptive removal and transport ~
materials Hence the primary goal of the CERT facility is tc
identify and promote non-incineration technologies which
provide onsitein situ treatment of PCBs contained in soils -=r
sediments- GEs extensive experience in the manufacture ard
use of PCB dielectric fluids prior to the TSCA ban and
subsequently the analysis of PCB containing materials and
remediation offers a unique opportunity to promote research c
environmentally acceptable and permanent PCB treatment regires
A-2
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 3 - FACILITY DESCRIPTION
The GE-Pittsfield facility encompasses approximately 2~Z
acres in Pittsfield Massachusetts Refer to Figure A-I for
site location and layout Several business components
including Plastics Aerospace and Transformer are locate
within the facility (Figure A-l)
PCB-related activities conducted at the GE facility
include long term storage area (Building 71) the Therrai
OxidiZer for the incineration of PCB containing liquids
(Building 60) a newly constructed state-of-the-art was tew at-
treatment facility for PCB removal (Building 64-T) and a
state-of-the-art analytical laboratory for PCB multi-media
analysis (Building 11) Refer to Figure A-l for locations ^
these operations
SECTION 4 - CERT FACILITY DESCRIPTION
GE has selected the west end of a five bay building
formerly used for transformer manufacturing operations
(Building 12) in which to locate the CERT facility It
occupies approximately 40000 ft in area Refer to Figure
A-2 for building design
Building 12 has been modified to provide a secure locaticr
and support services for up to five RampD operations Bench
andor pilot scale operations can simultaneously utilize common
storage laboratory emergency equipment and personnel
A-3
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
Laboratory space is located in Building 11 Each process 1_
operate independently with its own TSCA RampD permit GEs
current PCB management practices have been extended to inci^ae
the CERT facility
The CERT facility is designed to provide the following
functions programs and services to operators of the RampD
efforts Discussion of each is provided later in this
document
o Preparedness and Prevention Measures - Building design
and management practices to prevent a release of PCB
materials Refer to Section 5 for details
o Emergency Response - The GE facility SPCC plan has oeer
modified to address PCB releases at the CERT facility
Refer to Section 6
o Security - Measures taken at the CERT facility to
prevent unauthorized entry to the restricted process 2-
storage areas Refer to Section 7
o Analytical Services - GEs analytical support group i-
an onsite laboratory (Building 11) will provide state-
of-the-art analytical services Refer to Section 8
o Quality Assurance - Prior to startup GE reguires a
detailed and project specific QAQC plan for each RampD
program utilizing the CERT facility to ensure that all
operations are conducted in a prudent and
environmentally safe manner Refer to Section 9
o Material Storage - Long term storage provided in
Building 71 as currently permitted Refer to Section
10
o Waste Disposal - All PCB wastes and treated materials
will be disposed in accordance to 40 CFR Part 761
Procedures are described in Section 11
A-4
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
o Safety amp Training - An extensive training program is -
place to provide maximum classroom opportunities and en
the-job training to GE employees and contractor hanalir
or managing of PCB materials Refer to Section 12
o Decontamination - Procedures for periodic
decontamination of equipment and as a result of
emergency response are discussed in Section 13
o Closure - Procedures for partial closure at the
completion of an individual RampD process and full closur
of the CERT facility have been developed Refer to
Section 14
SECTION 5 - PREPAREDNESS amp PREVENTION
The CERT facility has been designed to maximize control cf
PCB materials during all RampD process evaluations Preparedres
and prevention measures have been incorporated into Building i
similar to those requirements for bulk oil storage under the
SPCC regulations in 40 CFR Part 112 Adequate containment
structures will confine all liquids No floor drains are
present in the buildings Individual processes may require
additional containment structures specific to the process
Fire extinguishers central high pressure water fire hose
suppression and alarm systems exist throughout Building 12 tc
provide instantaneous emergency response The fire alarm
system is designed to sound a horn for building evacuation as
well as to alert GE Plant Security The GE fire brigade and
Pittsfield Fire Department are available for response to fires
which cannot be controlled by portable fire fighting equipment
A-5
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
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U- UJ Q ^
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CJ
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cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
All the preparedness and prevention measures implemented by Jl
at the CERT facility are consistent with programs outlined ir
GE Pittsfields Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan and PCB
Compliance Manual
SECTION 6 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GE has an extensive PCB emergency response program
currently in place at their Pittsfield facility This prograr
has been extended to include all activities associated with the
CERT facility The facility is well equipped to implement the
emergency response protocols in the event of a release or
accident Decontamination equipment and spill containment
material are sufficient to contain the largest release frcr any
RampD process All storage areas will be adequately berred tc
contain a liquid release
The current GE SPCC plan has been modified to include the
CERT facility The plan and list of emergency equipment are
filed at strategic locations for review and quick reference
Any release of PCB materials will be promptly controlled
and remediated within 24 hours in accordance with 40 CFR Fart
761125 and reported to EPA as required
A-6
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 7 - SECURITY
An extensive security program to limit access to the
facility grounds and specific operation areas is in place
Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted within the CERT
facility Barriers have been installed within Building 12
with signs warning against unauthorized entry PCB signs arlaquo
posted at all entrances to the CERT facility Laboratories
restricted and locked during off-hours Doors and gates to H
CERT facility area will be locked during unmanned shifts
Access is restricted to personnel associated with the FSC
projects EPA and agency personnel registered visitors aru
security personnel Daily security patrols of the laboratcr
and CERT facility are conducted
SECTION 8 - ANALYTICAL SERVICES
The Environmental Laboratory in Pittsfield located in
Building 11 (see Figure A-l) has been conducting PCB analyses
for many years The laboratory provides compliance mcnitcrir
for the facilitys licensed PCB Thermal Oxidizer and the
wastewater treatment plants discharge permit Laboratory
personnel under the direction of Dr William Fessler have nad
extensive training in PCB analytical techniques and QAQC
procedures equivalent to those established by the EPA
Incorporated into this document by reference are the
laboratorys QA program and QC procedures for all aspects of
PCB handling analysis and recordkeeping
A-7
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
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REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
The extensive documentation used by the Environmental
Laboratory is sufficient to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
of the laboratory analyses The methods are equivalent to
those used by EPA or outside contractor laboratories As part
of its QAQC program GE regularly submits duplicate sarples tc
an outside laboratory for confirmation of results All QAQC
protocols implemented in association with a specific CERT
process will be included in reports submitted to EPA GE dees
and will continue to comply with all applicable record and
monitoring requirements promulgated in 40 CFR Part 761130
SECTION 9 - QUALITY ASSURANCE
GE recognizes the need to ensure prudent handling and
analyses of PCB materials to generate accurate and reliable
data In order to meet these objectives each RampD process
utilizing CERT facilities must implement procedures which
assure that precision accuracy completeness and
representativeness of its data are known and documented
Therefore during installation and prior to the start of
testing operations development of a specific QA Project Plan
for each RampD process is mandatory The Project Plan will be
prepared in a manner consistent with Section 420 of EPAs
Draft Guidelines for Permit Applications and Demonstration Test
Plans for PCB Disposal by Non-Thermal Alternative Methods and
address specific issues of each process which are not addressed
in the Environmental Laboratorys general QAQC program
A-8
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
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C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
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CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
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sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
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O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 10 - MATERIAL STORAGE
PCB containing sediments and soils will be collected frcr
various sites in the Pittsfield area for treatment using the
RampD processes Possible sources of PCB materials will
include sediments from Woods Pond in Lee and Lenox
Massachusetts sediments from Silver Lake in Pittsfield
Massachusetts and soils from the Newell Street Property as
well as the GE plant site both in Pittsfield Massachusetts
All sample collection will be conducted in accordance with 31
applicable federal state and local regulations after the
required permits are obtained Transportation of the PCB
materials will be conducted by licensed hazardous waste-
transporters
Long term PCB storage will be onsite at Building 71 With
the exception of materials awaiting use in the RampD processes
no material will be stored at the CERT facility Building ~1
is the one year storage facility for GE PCB waste materials
SECTION 11 - WASTE DISPOSAL
All unused PCB containing soils and sediments generated n
the CERT facility found to contain greater than or equal to 50
ppm PCBs will be disposed in accordance with 40 CFR Part
76180
As noted above PCB liquids are incinerated in the onsite
Thermal Oxidizer (Building 60) Wastewater will be treated in
accordance with 40 CFR Part 76180 PCB solids are disposed a1
properly permitted offsite facilities
A-9
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
All RampD processes at the CERT facility are required to
maintain extensive records and mass balance calculations of a
PCB materials used Manifests logbooks etc as required by
applicable federal and state regulations are maintained at tr-
CERT facility and the Environmental Programs office
Offsite disposal of PCB solids may be handled by several
vendors Procedures for proper offsite shipment and disposal
of PCB wastes are incorporated by reference
SECTION 12 - SAFETY AND TRAINING
GE conducts a comprehensive Safety and Training Program as
part of its current hazardous materials handling and disposal
procedures which requires that all employees involved in CE
handling storage or disposal undergo extensive classrocr ard
on-the-job training This training covers all aspects cf
proper PCB management and safety awareness
All GE and contractor employees involved with PCB
management at the CERT facility will receive the training
outlined in the referenced program Until successfully
completing the training no employee will work in the CERT
facility unsupervised In addition each RampD process will
require that appropriate contractor and GE employees receive
training specific to that process At a minimum that trainin
will include safe operation of the equipment emergency
shutdown procedures and equipment decontamination
A-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
GE and CERT personnel will take all measures to ensure tha
the operation of any RampD process in the facility is in
compliance with all safety and health standards as required cy
federal and state regulations
SECTION 13 - DECONTAMINATION
All equipment associated with RampD processing will be
decontaminated in accordance with existing decontamination
procedures in GEs PCS Information and Compliance Manual
This manual was compiled to address health and safety
considerations and the requirements in 40 CFR Part 76179
Decontamination procedures for specific RampD equipment not
covered by the above referenced manual will be supplied as an
addendum to the manual
Decontamination procedures will also be used during clcsj
of a particular RampD process and the entire CERT facility
These procedures are outlined in the manual and an addenda
specific to the RampD process Decontamination solutions and
waste will be properly disposed
CERT personnel have extensive experience with PCB cleanup
of equipment to the levels of the TSCA spill policy cf 40 CFR
761123
A-ll
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 14 - CLOSURE
Procedures have been developed to address both closure cf
specific RampD processes and the entire CERT facility As each
RampD process is permitted partial and full closure procedures
for the process operations will be developed as part of the
permit application These procedures will be taken from
general facility closure tasks and those specific to the
process Once an RampD process is completed closure will be
implemented and completed within 90 days As part of the
aforementioned report to EPA after completion of process
activities the closure procedures and waste disposal will also
be summarized and include the necessary documentation and
manifests
Partial and full closure of the CERT facility will be in
accordance with closure procedures established for Building
71 Waste materials will be removed and decontamination of C5
exposed equipment and surfaces will be conducted Waste
disposal will be documented by internal recordkeeping and
manifests as required Sixty days prior to full closure cf the
CERT facility GE will notify EPA of its intent of closure A
summary report will also be submitted to EPA describing the
procedures implemented during facility closure
A-12
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
SECTION 15 - REFERENCES
The following is a list of the plans and procedures
currently in place at the GE Pittsfield facility that apply
the CERT facility and laboratory These procedures have bee
referenced in preparation of this Appendix
1) GE PCB Compliance Manual
2) GE Pittsfield SPCC Plan
3) GE Pittsfield Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan
4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control Prograr for
Analysis at the Environmental Laboratory
5) GE Security Program
6) GE Hazardous Material and Waste Training Plan
A-13
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
o _ UJ
iZ CO
z _J 2
C S _ il T- r- c
0 UJ x c O C z c
U- UJ Q ^
O H ^ o
LU lt t mdash CO
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
CJ
o Z o_l 3 COl
Q
GC O o
o cr h-O LU _1 LU
cc LU Z LLJ O
LLJ CO ZImdash
Oh-LU Z
CO ID LU
I O
Olt CO CO
CO
O
CJ
LLJ LL CO
LU Imdash
Q
o T = shy
c O
sect -o 3 I 3 deg shyg = lt 5O
LU ()
03 bullpound 3 ^ X
o
O LU
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
REQUEST FCR ERVIT TO FEPFCSM RESEARCH AJD rEVELCRME^
ON A EICLC-3ICAL METHOD (TERFAFIRr- F ELIMINATION TF
FOLYCHLOFIN-TEr EIFHEirLS i FCEs FCM SEDIMENTS ANT fI
Appendix 3
UMVvELTSCHJTZ NOPE Gnoh amp To
GENERAL ELECTRIC C 100 voc^l j^i Ave-i -e Pittsfieid MA
11 _ Q C G
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NORTH-GERMANY) is a private company and active in all fields of pollution control This includes long term clean-ups of soil air and water as well as emergency actions after accidents with oil or chemicals
Experience with the microbiologically based soil treatment method in ECO-PLUS BIOSYSTEM SOIL beds has demonstrated that continuous intensive management of the degradation process is necessary to provide rapid and complete contaminant breakdown
Thoroughly analyzing the to-date implemented so i l cleaning proshyjects identified the optimal conditions for achieving maximal deshygradation rates of various organic contaminants
The result of these optimizations is our
TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL
a biological soil regeneration method in which microorgan1 SIPS degrade he contaminants in a closed reaction room under conshytrol led conditions
The TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL is characterized by the f o l l o laquo i r a procedural parameters
- Separation and classification of the soil materials to be cleaned
- Homogenization and mixing of the treatment components - Control and regulation of the degradation process
during intensified fermentation
The cleaned soil again undergoes carefully performed chemica -degshybiological tests Along with the proof of lack of contaminants other soil characteristics are investigated such as grain s z humus content moisture absorption potential soil flora and na as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e the sence of weeds and its hygienic s u i t a b i l i t y for an approo^^ future a p p l i c a t i o n
B-l
Berqedorfer StraRe 49 2875 GanderKesee 1 Teieron (04222 C 1022- 027 Te efax 0-222 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
MICROBIOLOGICAL SOIL CLEANING WITH
TERRAFERM
BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
988 SCHHE
The bioremediation of contaminated soil by microbiological degradation depends on the ability of bacteria and fungi to utilize contaminants as sources of energy and nutrients It has been well documented that almost all organic toxins can be broken down to harmless substances by microbes
Large scale implementation of microbial cleaning techniques has been extreshymely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Further successes have been observed in the microbial degradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons and polycylic hydrocarbons
The ecological advantage of natural soil regeneration via microorganisms lies in the superior end-product qualitylt produces a rich biologically active soil which is suitable for use in agriculture and gardens as landshyfill and noise barriers and for covering dump sites Therefore this type f pollutant elimination represents a veritable recycling of valuable res-sources in an ecologically and economically sound manner
The presence alone of microbes with the appropriate metabolic potentials is not sufficient to guarantee efficient soil regeneration The proper soil milieu is also necessary to assure quick and complete success
The most important factors for biological degradation are
- contamination concentration - contamination type - inhibitors - nutrients - oxygen - water - soil structure - temperature bull bull bull
B-2
Bergeaorfer StralBe 49 2875 Gandernesee 1 Teiefon (04222) C 1022-1027 Teefax CM222) 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
- e -Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
On-site and off-site microbial soil regeneration by the TERRAFERM intensishyfied degradation method is designed to optimize these environmental parameshyters Extensive preliminary work must be performed in biological and chemical laboratories to assure that these conditions can be maintained Details of these steps are summarized in the BIOTEST AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM The ground is analyzed initially for contaminant contents nutrient levels and soil structure Next the enzymatic turnover potential the actual microbial activity and the microbial colonization are calculated into a microbiological diagnosis Based on these results the most appropriate optimization program for maximal contaminant degradation can be selected and installed Simultaneously microbes specially adapted to contaminants are isolated from the soil carefully examined for suitability and used as appropriate in the optimization process
The sorted and classified soil is then subjected to extensive preparatory procedures Large stones and cement blocks are pulverized Organic subshystrates are added to improve the soil structure Mineral nutrients and trace elements are added to support the soil microbe population Finally the soil is cultured with the adapted bacteria and fungi under conditions of intensive oxygenation
The organic substrate consists of intermediately fermented compost of bark straw wood chips sawdust and ether organic wastes mixed together in a composter specially designed for this purpose
Minerals and trace elements serve to enrich and balance the nutrient levels in the soil The balance between nitrogen and phosphate is especially -shyportant for the degradation of hydrocarbons
Microbes which decompose contaminants belong to many different bacteria apd fungi groups Members of the genera Pseudomonas Arthrobacter Bacillus Alcaligenes Aspergillus and Fusanus often have this ability Aromatic hydrocarbons furthermore are attacked by species of Streptycetes and white molds
Oxygen is introduced to the system through intensive soil aeration Ir sreshycial cases other oxygen carriers such as nitrate or hydrccer-peroxiir - be added
Bergedorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 Telefon (04222) r t022-^27 Telefax 04222- 25 03
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
bull 3 - Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Use of the special shredder of the MAULWURF or MOLE type assures complete mixing and homogenization of the soil and added components This allows for complete and quick degradation of the pollutants Spots of extreme contashymination levels are thus reduced by this equalizing procedure so that leshyvels in the resulting mixture are low enough to allow immediate and consisshytent microbial degradation (see diagram)
The biological breakdown of toxins takes place in a totally enclosed dynashymic fermentation system in which all parameters such as temperature oxyshygen content nutrient levels and microbial populations can be maintained at their optimum levels Volatile pollutants are contained under a specially designed air-discharge biofilter Leaching water is avoided through carefjl controls and by preventing rain water from entering the system Thus the contaminants do not escape to the environment
The cleaned soil is then tested vigorously both chemically and biologicalshyly Aside from measurements of contamination other characteristics are measured such as particle size humus content water content potential soil flora and fauna (as well as the ability to support higher plant l i f e 1
the absence of weeds and its hygienic suitability for an appropriate future application
The entire process from collection of the contaminated soil to delivery or the cleaned soil is under constant biological and chemical supervisior This assures that dangerous residues are not forgotten and that the preshyscribed limits are not surpassed
Through appropriate initiation and constant maintenance of the proper i=shygradation conditions successful regeneration of contaminated soil via tre TERRAFERM method can be reached within 3 to 5 months depending on the type and amount of mineral hydrocarbon pollutants (see diagram The resishydual concentrations lie within the naturally occurring ranges
The rapid degradation process has decisive effects on the costs of soil cleaning Depending on the pollutant type and concentration the cos c this procedure lie between 60 and 150 Ston The space required cr this method is also minimal roughly 5 square feetton The specially descnei machinery is so rcbil^ that the method can be implemented at tr~ srill site or elsewhere
Microbiological on-site and off-site soil regeneration has thas neco~c an ecologically and economically sound method through the TERRAFEF BICSYSTEr SOIL The short tirre and small space required make it tne ideal ~et-od tcr cleaning a wide ranee cf organic pollutants
B-4
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH A CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
58880shyIf TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM-SOIL
45888shyDegradation of hydrocarbons
3588B-N
38B887
PPlaquo old h j d r o c a r h o n s 25886shy contaminat ion ( d r y b a s i s )
28888- crude oi 1
d i e s e l oi 1 15888^
18888shy
5888shyo rge t_ value
peak 8 12 15 IB 21 va lues
weeks
Soil preparation machinery in act ion
Bergeaorfer Strafle 49 bull 2875 Ganderkesee 1 bull Telefon (04222) C 10 22 -10 27 Telefax (04222) 25 03
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
3-6
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
A Unique Dry Bioreactor for Regeneration of PCB Contaminated Soil
Volker Schulz-Berendt UMWELTSCHUTZ NORD GMBH amp CO Bergedorfer Str 49 2875-Ganderkesee 1 West-Germany
amp
Thomas Lissner BIOREMEDIATION SERVICE Inc PO Box 484 Big SandyTexas Phone (214) 636-4146 Fax (214) 636-4160
Since 1975 Umweltschutz Nord is busy in the development and pracshytical application of techniques for the treatment of contaminated soil and water During these years research activities at laborashytory scale and field investigations were always combined with the transformation of its results into large-scale techniques By this a method for biological regeneration of contaminated soil the TERRAFERM BIOSYSTEM SOIL has been developed
Since the biological degradation of organic compounds leads to a valuable product which can fulfill its functions as soil again this is an ecological valuable method for the clean up of contamishynated sites
B-7
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 3 shy
Investigations with percolating soil columns in the laboratory and field experiments showed that microbial degradation of PCBs takes place under the following conditions
addition of an easily available organic carbon source (draff)
- low water content of the soil (60 of water holding capacity)
- changing oxygenic and anoxygenic atmosphere
By controlled process regulation PCBs were degraded from nearly 100 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 14 weeks in the laboratory and from about 10 ppm to lt 1 ppm during 6 months in the field
To optimize process regulation and by this to degrade high concenshytration of PCBs in polluted soil at a large scale a bioreactor was constructed This soil fermenter consists of a large tube with a lengths of 150 feet and 10 feet in diameter A large double-snail inside the reactor is used to fill and empty it and to move the soil during the degradation process With this soil reactor about 200 cubicmeters can be treated all at once
The surrounding conditons in the soil like oxygen-level moisture temperature or pressure can be adjusted exactly
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
Large scale implementations of microbial cleaning techniques have been extremely successful in the treatment of mineral oil spills Futher successes have been observed in the microbial degradation cf aromatic and polycyclic hydrocarbons
Although the capability of microorganisms to transform chlorinated organic molecules like PCBs exists in nature and has been demonshystrated by many laboratory experiments the following problems have not been solved to date
- large scale biological soil decontamination is not feasible with pure cultures
- combinations of different PCBs are only degradable by microbial
communities with a wide range of nutrient and energy sources
- the complete mineralization of PCBs includes the cooperation of various species of microorganisms
Thereby it is evident that microbial degradation of PCBs could not be established in soil by the addition of specialized microorgashy
nisms alone but that the environmental conditions must be suitable
for microbial activity too Different steps of the degradation
process are bound to different soil conditions A rapid and comshy
plete breakdown of PCBs therefore can only be realized by a regushy
lated change in soil conditions
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10
UMWELTSCHUTZ NORDGMBH amp CO
Sanierung von Boden und Gewasser
- 4 shy
Our next step in the development of PCB-biodegradation is the deshycontamination of a polluted soil with PCB-concentrations up to 2000 ppm By regulating the soil conditions in the large scale soil fermenter we expect to reach a PCB-level of lt 1 ppm within 6-8 months
Thereby the biological decontamination of PCBs in soil will become an ecologically and economically attractive alternative to other methods of disposal
B-10