ERDC/EL TR-08-17, Investigations of Controlling Factors for Air Emissions Associated with the Dredging of Indiana Harbor and Canal (IHC) and CDF Operations

This report describes a series of investigations conducted examining a number of specific factors that control air emissions associated with the dredging of Indiana Harbor and Canal (IHC) and associated IHC Confined Disposal Facility (CDF) operations. Three primary objectives were addressed: (1) measurement of Henry’s Law constants and sediment-water desorption constants for various chemicals in the IHC sediment, (2) measurement of volatile emissions from IHC sediments exposed to air, and (3) reformulation of models for air emissions from dredging of contaminated sediment and handling of dredged materials. Equilibrium sediment-water partition constants for PAHs and PCBs in IHC sediments were measured in laboratory investigations. These values are presented and compared to literature values. Laboratory experiments measuring the water-air partition constant (Henry’s Law constant) were conducted using IHC pore water. Experimentally determined Henry’s constants for PAHs and PCBs are presented and compared to literature values. Investigations from wind tunnel studies measuring semi-volatile emissions from IHC sediments are summarized. A model for estimating emissions from mechanical or hydraulic delivery of dredged IHC sediments is presented. Chemical volatilization models for emissions from dredging operations associated with IHC sediment and site conditions are discussed. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents. DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR. ERDC/EL TR-08-17 iii