TECHNOLOGIES / CHEMICAL OXIDATION / PERMANGANATE
CHEMICAL OXIDATION: PERMANGANATE
Permanganate-based in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) utilizes potassium permanganate (KMnO4) or sodium permanganate (NaMnO4) to degrade chlorinated solvents and other organic contaminants. Known for its stability and long-lasting reactivity, permanganate is particularly effective in treating groundwater impacted by chlorinated ethenes (PCE, TCE, and their daughter products). ISOTEC has extensive experience designing and implementing permanganate-based treatment strategies as standalone solutions or in combination with other remediation technologies.
UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS
Permanganate is a strong oxidant that reacts directly with organic contaminants, breaking them down into non-toxic byproducts. Unlike other chemical oxidants, permanganate does not require an activator, making it a reliable and straightforward remediation option. Its extended persistence in the subsurface allows for continued oxidation downgradient of injection points, providing long-term treatment benefits.
KEY ADVANTAGES OF PERMANGANATE
- Longevity: Permanganate remains active for months to years, enabling extended contaminant degradation and downgradient treatment.
- No Activation Required: Unlike persulfate or Fenton-based approaches, permanganate does not require the use of additional catalysts or activators.
- Versatile Application: Permanganate can be used as a standalone treatment or combined with other remediation approaches, like surfactants and bioremediation.
IDEAL APPLICATIONS FOR PERMANGANATE
Permanganate is most applicable at sites characterized by:
- Chlorinated solvent plumes (PCE, TCE, DCE, VC)
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) impacts
- Contaminated areas beneath buildings and other structures where excavation is not feasible
ISOTEC has decades of experience implementing permanganate-based ISCO, and customizes application based on site-specific conditions to ensure maximum treatment effectiveness.