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Abstract
Zero valent iron (ZVI) is a promising method of remediation for a variety of groundwater contaminants. However, several limitations to its capabilities exist, including decreased efficacy at non-acidic pH, in oxic environments, and in the presence of multiple contaminants or complexing ligands. This study assessed the ability of a novel porous iron composite (PIC) material to immobilize redox-sensitive groundwater contaminants. Batch experiments were performed to assess PIC performance at removing uranium, arsenic, and nitrate in a complex groundwater surrogate solution with high contaminant load and alkalinity. The PIC successfully removed all contaminants to levels below drinking water standards in both oxic and anoxic environments. Another set of batch experiments were carried out to assess PIC removal of Cr at environmentally relevant concentrations. The PIC showed at least 75% Cr removal, with slightly better performance in the oxic environment. Overall, PIC provides a promising alternative to conventional ZVI materials.