Introduction to Sodium Permanganate for Remediation
Sodium permanganate is a versatile and effective oxidant used for in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) to treat contaminated soil and groundwater at remediation sites. With proper application, it can quickly and safely degrade many common contaminants.
An Overview of Sodium Permanganate
Sodium permanganate (NaMnO4) is supplied as a dark purple liquid solution, available from chemical suppliers like CAP Remediationin concentrations of 20% and 40% by weight. Custom blends can also be created to meet specific project needs.
The active oxidant in sodium permanganate is the permanganate anion (MnO4-). This is a strong chemical oxidant that persists in the subsurface for months after injection, allowing it to continue reacting with and degrading contaminants long after application.
Key Benefits of Using Sodium Permanganate for Remediation
There are several reasons why sodium permanganate is an excellent choice for many ISCO applications:
Powerful and Persistent Oxidation
The permanganate anion provides powerful oxidation that can rapidly degrade many common groundwater contaminants like chlorinated solvents. It also persists in the subsurface providing sustained treatment.
Cost-Effective
Sodium permanganate is very competitively priced compared to other chemical oxidants. This makes it a cost-effective option for remediation contractors and project managers.
Safe Handling
Unlike some other oxidants, sodium permanganate does not release heat or gases. This makes it easier and safer to handle at remediation sites.
Easy to Detect and Monitor
The dark purple color of sodium permanganate allows for visual monitoring of its spread in the subsurface. As it reacts and degrades contaminants, it fades in color, providing a visual cue.
Effective Across a Wide pH Range
Sodium permanganate maintains its oxidation power across a wide pH range from 3 to 12. This makes it compatible for use at most sites without adjustment.
No Activation Required
Unlike persulfate, sodium permanganate works immediately without the need for activation chemicals to kickstart the oxidation process.
Delivering Sodium Permanganate to Remediation Sites
Sodium permanganate is supplied in both drums and 275 gallon totes and can also be delivered in bulk tankers, which is especially useful for larger-scale projects.
On-site chemical mixing and handling can be minimized by having solutions delivered pre-blended to the desired concentration. This reduces safety risks and complications for remediation contractors. These customized solutions can be delivered in IBC totes or bulk tankers that can either be unloaded directly into wells and excavation pits or on-site tanks.
Expert Support for Remediation Projects
When choosing a chemical supplier for ISCO oxidants like sodium permanganate, it’s important to work with a company that understands remediation applications and can provide expert support.
The CAP Remediation team has extensive experience designing and delivering oxidant solutions for difficult remediation sites. We make project logistics and safe delivery a priority for each job.
Proven Applications of Sodium Permanganate Injection
Sodium permanganate has been studied extensively and used widely for ISCO remediation projects. Some of its proven applications include:
- Treating chlorinated solvents like TCE, PCE, and vinyl chloride
- Oxidizing BTEX compounds from fuel spills
- Remediating pesticide and herbicide contamination
- Managing contaminant plumes and preventing spread
- Treating contaminated groundwater at brownfields sites
Technical resources are available from EPA and the Department of Defense to help design effective sodium permanganate injection systems.
When applied properly, sodium permanganate ISCO is a safe, cost-effective, and proven treatment approach for many common remediation challenges.