Contaminated Site Clean-Up Information (CLU-IN): Internet Seminar Audio Archives

The NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) presents a "Virtual Technology Fair" featuring Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant recipients developing innovative solutions for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Speakers will give a "pitch", showcasing the work underway and its value-added to disrupt the market. We encourage participation by and questions from potential end-users, customers, and other stakeholders to accelerate technology transfer of these promising approaches. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/VTF-PFAS_092425/

In 2020, ITRC's 1,4-Dioxane team created multiple tools and documents that provide information to assist all interested stakeholders in understanding this contaminant and for making informed, educated decisions. Since the 1950s, 1,4-Dioxane has seen widespread use as a solvent stabilizer. The use of solvents through the 1980s suggests its presence at thousands of solvent sites in the US; however, it is not always a standard compound in typical analytical suites for hazardous waste sites, so it previously was overlooked. The U.S. EPA has classified 1,4-Dioxane as "likely to be carcinogenic to humans." Some states have devised health standards or regulatory guidelines for drinking water and groundwater standards; these are often sub-part per billion values. These low standards present challenges for analysis, characterization, and remediation of 1,4-Dioxane. The 1,4-Dioxane: Science, Characterization & Analysis, and Remediation training is a series of six (6) modules. The six individual modules will be presented together live, and then archived on the ITRC 1,4-Dioxane training webpage for on demand listening. The modular 1,4-Dioxane training series provides an overview of 1,4-Dioxane and presenting six sections from the ITRC guidance document (1,4d-1, 2021):History of Use and Potential Sources (Sect 1)Regulatory Framework (Sect 2)Fate and Transport (Sect 3)Sampling and Analysis (Sect 4)Toxicity and Risk Assessment (Sect 5)Remediation and Treatment Technologies (Sect 6)After the six-part 1,4-Dioxane: Science, Characterization & Analysis, and Remediation series, you should understand:The history of 1,4-Dioxane manufacturing and usage and the potential sources of releases of 1,4-Dioxane to the environment.Primary state and U.S. federal regulatory programs of relevance to 1,4-DioxaneKey physical/chemical properties, and fate and transport processes that are relevant for 1,4-DioxaneBenefits and limitations of the available analytical methodsRisk drivers for human health and how ecological risk comparesHow/when/why different treatment technologies are appropriate We encourage you to use the ITRC 1,4-Dioxane products (14d-1) and these training modules to learn about 1,4-Dioxane and how you can apply these best practices to improve decision-making at your sites. For regulators and other government agency staff, this understanding of 1,4-Dioxane can be incorporated into your own programs. This training summarizes the current understanding of 1,4-Dioxane. While the training makes every effort to keep the information accessible to a wide audience, it is assumed that the participants will have some basic technical understanding of chemistry, environmental sciences, and risk assessment. As with other emerging contaminants, our understanding of 1,4-Dioxane continues to advance. This training provides the participants with information on areas where the science is evolving and where uncertainty persists. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/14D-1_091625/

ITRC's Pump & Treat (P&T) Optimization training aims to summarize existing information and best practices while also developing a systemic and adaptive optimization framework specifically for P&T well-network design and management. P&T systems have been one of the most commonly used methods for hydraulic containment and treatment of contaminated groundwater at sites with large groundwater plumes. This method cleans up groundwater contaminated with dissolved chemicals by pumping groundwater from wells to an above-ground treatment system that removes the contaminants. Optimization of P&T remedies is important for maintaining contaminant removal effectiveness throughout the operation lifetime and managing the system toward an exit strategy. A strategy for routine optimization of P&T remedies is key for maintaining the contaminant removal efficiency of these systems. The primary audience for this training is environmental project decision-makers, which may include federal, state, tribal, and various local agency employees; contractors to these agencies; and potentially liable parties and their engineers and consultants as well as involved stakeholders. Generally, those involved in designing, building and operating, and optimizing pump & treat systems would benefit.The goal of the training is to provide a roadmap for optimizing a P&T system and refining the remedial strategy or shifting toward another remedial approach. Pump & Treat optimization should be systematic and data-based, and the training and document aim to provide tools and direction to assist in this rigorous process.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the P&T project lifecycle: evaluation, optimization, and transition, as well as considerations for sustainability, resiliency, and regulatory and stakeholder entities.P&T optimization should incorporate adaptive site management. P&T systems are influenced by a diverse collection of outside factors, which should be considered throughout the entire optimization process.Transition and termination should both be considered during the optimization process.Remedial objectives dictate evaluation and optimization efforts for P&T systems..Prior to attending the training class, participants are encouraged to view the associated ITRC Pump & Treat guidance document. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/PT-1_090425/

This webinar will look at stages of the RI/FS, from RMM through the FS.  Presentations will discuss how to create risk scenarios for evaluation using the Risk Management Methodology (RMM) and explain how that can influence the development of remedial alternatives by considering both contamination and land use.  The presentations will look at an example site and at a case study.  We will also discuss the use of "FS alternatives panels" to facilitate the development of remedial alternatives and attempt to get buy-in from various members of the project team. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/m2s2fy24-1_082825/

The NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) presents a "Virtual Technology Fair" featuring Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant recipients developing innovative solutions for heavy metals in water. Speakers will give a "pitch", showcasing the work underway and its value-added to disrupt the market. We encourage participation by and questions from potential end-users, customers, and other stakeholders to accelerate technology transfer of these promising approaches. The August 27th webinar will feature ChemFinity Technologies, Inc. on "Remediation of acid mine drainage water using selective metal-harvesting membranes;" OndaVia, Inc. on "Automated, In-Line Hexavalent Chromium Analyzer;" Microvi Biotechnologies, Inc. on "Intensified, High-Rate Reductive Immobilization of Hexavalent Chromium;" Picoyune on "Plasmonic Sensor and Field Monitor for Mercury." To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/VTF-HeavyMetals_082725/

This webinar will be hosted by the EPA Superfund Technical Review Workgroup (TRW) Lead Committee to assist Superfund and RCRA Corrective Action risk assessors in the use of the Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) Model for Lead in Children, the Adult Lead Methodology (ALM), and the All-Ages Lead Model (AALM) in lead human health risk assessment. The first day will provide an overview of all three models and their uses in lead risk assessment, followed by hands-on IEUBK exercises, including running the model, deriving preliminary remediation goals (PRGs), and using site-specific bioavailability information. The second day will be additional interactive (optional; attendees may also listen and follow along), technically-driven instruction on using batch mode and evaluating intermittent exposure in the IEUBK model, an exercise using the ALM, and a demonstration of the AALM, including an intermittent exposure example, and comparison of the AALM to the IEUBK. These sessions will provide opportunities to learn the intricacies of Pb human health risk assessment and hands-on demonstrations. It is encouraged to download the models prior to the training sessions (see Webinar Slides and References for more information). To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/TRW-LeadRisk_072425/

This webinar will be hosted by the EPA Superfund Technical Review Workgroup (TRW) Lead Committee to assist Superfund and RCRA Corrective Action risk assessors in the use of the Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) Model for Lead in Children, the Adult Lead Methodology (ALM), and the All-Ages Lead Model (AALM) in lead human health risk assessment. The first day will provide an overview of all three models and their uses in lead risk assessment, followed by hands-on IEUBK exercises, including running the model, deriving preliminary remediation goals (PRGs), and using site-specific bioavailability information. The second day will be additional interactive (optional; attendees may also listen and follow along), technically-driven instruction on using batch mode and evaluating intermittent exposure in the IEUBK model, an exercise using the ALM, and a demonstration of the AALM, including an intermittent exposure example, and comparison of the AALM to the IEUBK. These sessions will provide opportunities to learn the intricacies of Pb human health risk assessment and hands-on demonstrations. It is encouraged to download the models prior to the training sessions (see Webinar Slides and References for more information). To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/TRW-LeadRisk_072325/

In response to one of the biggest emerging environmental concerns, ITRC formed the Microplastics Team in 2021 to develop the Microplastics Guidance Document. Plastics have become pervasive in modern life and are now used in a wide range of commercial and industrial applications. Microplastics may result from the degradation and fragmentation of larger plastics, or they may be intentionally produced for specific applications and products. Regardless of their origin, microplastics are now ubiquitous in our environment. Because of their small size and pervasiveness in the environment, microplastics, along with any other contaminants which are adhered to the microplastics, may be inadvertently consumed by humans and other organisms. The online ITRC Guidance Document is geared toward an audience with reasonable level of scientific understanding, but not microplastic-specific knowledge. The guidance provides a user with information on microplastics and the state of the applied science without having to go to the scientific literature. The target audience for the guidance and this training course includes state regulators and environmental consultants, as well as community and tribal stakeholders. The guidance and this associated training course uses a conceptual site model to navigate microplastics in the environment and explore the following general areas:An introduction to microplastics, their sources, and worldwide distributionThe pathways through which microplastics can enter and travel in the environment and their distribution in various media (water, soil, sediment, air, and biota) A current look at the most common techniques and best practices for sampling and analyzing microplasticsPotential human health and ecological risks associated with microplastics in the environmentAn overview of existing regulations related to microplastics and macroplastics at the state, federal, and international levelsExamples of prevention and mitigation strategies and best management practices to reduce microplastics from entering the environment and the emerging technologies to abate, treat, and remediate microplastics once they exist in the environment Identification of data gaps and the need for further researchSeveral case studies illustrating a range of current microplastics-related topicsPrior to attending the training class, participants are encouraged to view the associated ITRC Microplastics Guidance Document. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/Microplastics_061025/

Solid mining waste represents a significant quantity of waste material in the United States and around the world. Solid mining waste has a range of physical and chemical properties that make it both potentially valuable and potentially hazardous to human health and the environment. From a commercial perspective, mining removes most of the primary minerals of interest; however, waste materials can still contain valuable minerals and other materials that can be recovered. The different types of mining sites and potential wastes for reuse provide a significant challenge but also an opportunity for innovation. Improvements in extraction and mineral processing technologies have occurred over time making it possible to recover minerals present in low concentrations. Interest in trace metals and rare earth elements (REEs) has increased, especially with the drive towards renewable energy sources increasing demand for key minerals required for solar panels and batteries. The reuse of solid mining waste can consist of reprocessing and repurposing the waste for resource recovery or a new application or product. This reuse serves as a solution to two significant needs:a domestic supply of minerals and materials for sustainable development and national defense purposesthe reclamation and remediation of land to reduce risks to human and environmental health The ITRC Reuse of Solid Mining Waste training and guidance document is geared towards state regulators and environmental consultants, mining and manufacturing stakeholders, community and tribal stakeholders, and other who have an interest in the potential reuse of solid mining waste. The guidance and this associated training course includes:Mining wastes introductionConsiderations for reusing mining waste: waste characterization, economic and market considerations, life cycle and risk assessment, regulatory considerations, & stakeholder considerationsPotential applications for the reuse of solid mining waste: examples of construction, environmental, and industrial reusesReview of technologies used in mineral beneficiation and processing Additionally, the guidance includes several case studies illustrating a range of current mining waste reuse scenarios. Prior to attending the training class, participants are encouraged to view the associated ITRC Reuse of Solid Mining Waste document. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/MiningWaste_052925/

This training class builds on the earlier information for introductory PFAS topics presented in the PFAS 101 CLU-IN training. The ITRC PFAS Beyond the Basics class provides more information related to potential sources of PFAS in biosolids, implications of PFAS associated with land-applied biosolids, vadose zone fate and transport processes that likely govern biosolids releases, treatment/disposal options for PFAS-impacted biosolids, and regulatory considerations. Resources and further details for the topics included in this training are in the published PFAS-1 guidance document in Sections 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 17.3, and the Regulatory Programs Table. Learning Objectives: Biosolids and PFAS Fate and Transport in the Vadose ZoneSource Zone CharacteristicsVadose Zone Controls on MobilityField Scale Fate, Transport and UptakeCharacterization and TreatmentAdditional Biosolids Considerations and Summary To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/PFAS-BTB-Biosolids_052025/

In October 2024, ITRC released the 6PPD & 6PPD-quinone Guidance Document to provide environmental professionals and communities with information about the current science and regulatory framework of 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-q). 6PPD-q is a contaminant of emerging concern and is a transformation product of the tire anti-degradant (6PPD), an antiozonant used in tires. Join us for this ITRC training course to get a basic overview of the science and policy measures surrounding the Tire Anti-Degradants 6PPD and 6PPD-q. Attendees will gain insight into the current state of knowledge on topics such as: background and use of 6PPD in tires, toxicity in aquatic species and humans; occurrence, fate, and transport; measuring, mapping, and sampling; mitigation measures; and policy, regulations, and laws. Currently, 6PPD is used in all tires and can contaminate stormwater and surface water anywhere tires are used. 6PPD-q was identified as a chemical fatal to coho salmon in 2020. Since that time, it has been documented as acutely toxic to multiple trout species found throughout the United States. 6PPD and 6PPD-q have been found in waterways, aquatic organisms, soils, air, and humans. This training will introduce you to the ITRC 6PPD & 6PPD-quinone Guidance Document which provides more technical detail than can be covered in this training course To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/6PPD-Q_050125/

This presentation will cover fundamental concepts on groundwater fate and transport modeling along with examples of different models. Additionally, the complexity of modeling leaching of PFAS compounds in subsurface will be presented. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/GW-PFAS-Modeling_043025/

M2S2 will be presenting three webinars in FY25, titled "Sessions from the STAND DOWN" highlighting presentations from the FY25 M2S2 Stand Down hosted by US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in December 2024. These online events will bring together USACE, DoD leaders, federal land managers, state and federal regulators and contractors to discuss munitions response cleanup issues and initiatives.  Presenters and attendees will discuss programmatic information, and share lessons learned to foster strong working relationships. The first webinar in this series will focus on Remedial Actions and include the following presentations:"RA Lessons learned" — Elise Goggin"Regulatory perspective on ROD's" — Jeff Swanson "Common challenges implementing the remedy" — DJ Myers"Records we need in the Record of Decision" — Nancy Heflin To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/STAND-DOWN-1_042925/

This training class builds on the earlier information for fate and transport and site characterization presented in the PFAS 101 CLU-IN training. It provides more in-depth information for fate and transport, site characterization, source identification and some introductory information on environmental forensics. These topics will be presented along with options and a framework for data visualization. This training will focus largely on PFAS fate and transport in groundwater. The goal is to provide detailed information about the inputs practitioners can use to develop a robust conceptual site model to help understand fate and transport at PFAS sites, and how to gather evidence of multiple sources. Resources and further details for the topics included in this training are in the ITRC Guidance Document (PFAS-1) in Sections 2.6, 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 15 along with referenced tables. Learning Objectives: Understand fate and transport processes that are unique to PFAS due to their physical and chemical properties.How to characterize sites with these processes and properties in mind.Describe options for and advantages of various data visualization techniques.Introduce basic forensic techniques for source evaluation. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/PFAS-BTB-FT_042425/

The EPA Superfund Redevelopment Program's mission is to protect human health and the environment and promote the reuse of Superfund sites. Restoring these once-contaminated properties to productive use revitalizes local economies and prioritizes economic prosperity, spurring new jobs, business growth, tax revenues, spending and new amenities for communities.   This webinar showcases the economic benefits of Superfund Redevelopment for communities across the country. Participants will hear about the most up-to-date economic numbers and success stories. They will also learn about tools used at Superfund sites to ensure that reuse projects meet local needs and reflect community priorities, as part of restoring the greatness of the American economy. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/superfund-redevelopment_042325/

In 2023, ITRC published the Sediment Cap Chemical Isolation Guidance to supplement the 2014 Contaminated Sediments Remediation Guidance with the goal of improving consistency in sediment cap performance outcomes. Sediment capping is a commonly selected remediation approach and numerous designs have been completed. Previous cap designs have been evaluated in multiple ways, and these varying approaches have led to some differences in selection of chemical design criteria, construction tolerance specifications, and monitoring/maintenance objectives for sites with similar characteristics and contaminants, leading to different expectations for long-term performance and reliability. The ITRC Sediment Cap Chemical Isolation Guidance provides a framework for the design, construction, and long-term monitoring of the chemical isolation function of sediment caps. The framework consists of an iterative design process informed by site-specific data that balances achievement of chemical design criteria, physical design constraints, constructability and permitting requirements. In addition, the guidance summarizes key construction considerations and presents a recommended approach for monitoring and evaluating long-term chemical isolation performance. The recommended framework presented in the Sediment Cap Chemical Isolation Guidance is illustrated below. The Sediment Cap Chemical Isolation Training will cover several key elements of the recommended framework, including: A capping overview that summarizes objectives of capping, role of the chemical isolation layer, and generic cap types and compositions. A discussion of performance objectives and design concepts that includes the selection of chemical isolation performance targets criteria and development of design criteria while considering the site setting and conceptual site model elements. An overview of chemical isolation layer modeling tools and discussion of their applicability to support chemical isolation design, important model input parameters, and the impact of uncertainty and sensitivity of modeling results. A summary of chemical isolation construction considerations, including an overview of available construction methods and tolerances and quality assurance and quality control measures. A discussion of cap performance monitoring and maintenance objectives and approaches that include developing monitoring objectives to assess chemical isolation performance and methods for guiding long-term maintenance decisions. We encourage participants to review the ITRC Sediment Cap Chemical Isolation Guidance (SD-1) before and after the training to become familiar with the topics and recommendations discussed during the training. This training is intended for all environmental professionals working in the field of sediment capping projects, including regulators and other government agency staff, consultants, project stakeholders, and industry. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/sd-1_042225/

Petroleum is a complex mixture of many compounds. Regulatory and technical guidance documents commonly focus on the hydrocarbon components of that mixture, or perceived risks that they present. However, focusing on a specific area of concern often causes practitioners to overlook other aspects of a release. For example, concerns related to exposure to total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) risks may be overlooked while pursuing concerns related to light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) recovery or petroleum vapor intrusion (PVI). This class is designed to provide a basic overview of hydrocarbon behavior in the subsurface and how to scientifically assess concerns arising from the release of petroleum products into the environment. It will highlight key issues that help identify and manage TPH, LNAPL, and PVI risks together. Key concepts will include: Fundamentals of petroleum hydrocarbonsPetroleum chemistryHow TPH, LNAPL, and PVI are relatedBuilding an integrated conceptual site model (CSM) What is a CSM…what is its purpose?When is a CSM complete?Identifying and managing the risks from petroleum hydrocarbonsDefining LNAPL risks based on acute, saturation, composition, or aesthetic concernsEmphasize the importance of biodegradation in risk management decision makingHow to select remedial goals and remedies that align with your goals This course is based upon three separate Guidance Documents developed by ITRC that address the course content in detail:Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (LNAPL), LNAPL Site Management: LCSM Evolution, Decision Process, and Remedial Technologies (LNAPL-3) Petroleum Vapor Intrusion (PVI), Fundamentals of Screening, Investigation, and Management (PVI-1) Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH), TPH Risk Evaluation at Petroleum-Contaminated Sites (TPHRisk-1) To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/itrc/Hydrocarbons_041725/

This virtual training will discuss the updated Framework for Investigating Asbestos-Contamination at Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Sites (released in 2021). By taking this training, participants will learn how to better assess exposure and risk from asbestos and consider unique scientific and technical issues associated with the investigation of human exposure and risk from asbestos. The training modules will discuss specific strategies that are based on the best currently available science as well as methods for characterizing exposure and risk from asbestos to inform risk-management. The course also presents:A flow diagram for asbestos site assessment and removal action and remedial action decisionsThe application of activity-based sampling (ABS) to evaluate the asbestos exposure potential at a site in support of risk-based removal and remedial decisionsResources for asbestos sample collection and analysisA definition of phase contrast microscopy equivalent (PCME) structures for estimating exposures in asbestos for risk assessmentThe available asbestos toxicity values (non-cancer Reference Concentration [RfC] and age- and duration-specific cancer inhalation unit risks [IURs]) that are used in asbestos risk assessmentA real-world case study that applies the 2021 Framework The course will feature previously narrated modules complemented with videos and live subject matter experts that will be available to answer any questions. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/Asbestos-Framework_041625/

This virtual training will discuss the updated Framework for Investigating Asbestos-Contamination at Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Sites (released in 2021). By taking this training, participants will learn how to better assess exposure and risk from asbestos and consider unique scientific and technical issues associated with the investigation of human exposure and risk from asbestos. The training modules will discuss specific strategies that are based on the best currently available science as well as methods for characterizing exposure and risk from asbestos to inform risk-management. The course also presents:A flow diagram for asbestos site assessment and removal action and remedial action decisionsThe application of activity-based sampling (ABS) to evaluate the asbestos exposure potential at a site in support of risk-based removal and remedial decisionsResources for asbestos sample collection and analysisA definition of phase contrast microscopy equivalent (PCME) structures for estimating exposures in asbestos for risk assessmentThe available asbestos toxicity values (non-cancer Reference Concentration [RfC] and age- and duration-specific cancer inhalation unit risks [IURs]) that are used in asbestos risk assessmentA real-world case study that applies the 2021 Framework To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/Asbestos-Framework_041525/

Performance data for treatment technologies such as permeable reactive barriers, chemical oxidation, and chemical or biological reductive dechlorination suggests there are factors that may consistently impact the effectiveness of groundwater remediation at sites with volatile organic contamination. Aquifer and remedy geochemistry, site characterization, and implementation issues are factors that have impacted groundwater remedy performance at a number of sites. After illustrating these performance factors through case studies, we will cover tips and tricks that can be used to increase the likelihood of a successful groundwater remedy. To view this archive online or download the slides associated with this seminar, please visit http://www.clu-in.org/conf/tio/GW-Remedy-Selection_040225/