ISSN:
1573-2932
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
Notes:
Abstract The objectives of this study are to assessδ 34S as a tracer of anthropogenic SO 4 2− in groundwater and to document geochemical interactions that take place as a result of industrial SO 4 2− loading. During four separate sampling excursions, groundwater samples were obtained from 13 piezometers which surround the elemental S storage blocks at a processing facility for sour (H2S) natural gas in Alberta, Canada. Each sample was analyzed forδ 34Ssulfate,δ 18Osulfate,δ 18Owater,δDwater, major aqueous species, alkalinity, pH, temperature and dissolved O2. Hydraulic head measurements were taken to define the groundwater flow field. In the study area, anthropogenic SO 4 2− has aδ 34S of approximately +18‰ (CDT), while natural groundwater SO 4 2− is depleted to about −12%. Low activity of sulfate reducing bacteria in the groundwater at this site assures thatδ 34S is a conservative tracer. Groundwater SO 4 2− concentrations increase asδ 34S approaches +18‰, suggesting that elevated SO 4 2− concentrations are due to S released by sour gas processing. Acidic waters generated by the oxidation of industrial S from the gas plant are neutralized by rock-water reactions.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01100442
