Application of a Bimetallic Treatment System (BTS) for PCB Removal from Older Structures on DoD Facilities. Cost and Performance Report

Abstract : This project demonstrated the efficacy of a Bimetallic Treatment System (BTS) to remove and rapidly degrade polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) found in structural coatings. The BTS technology, which consists of elemental or zero-valent magnesium (ZVM) coated with a small amount of palladium in a solvent solution capable of hydrogen donation, has two functions: (1) to extract PCBs from weathered, decades-old coating material such as paint; and (2) to degrade the extracted PCBs. Results are presented for pre-demonstration laboratory testing and field testing conducted at: (1) the Vertical Integration Building (VIB), Cape Canaveral, Florida; and (2) Badger Army Ammunition Plant, Wisconsin. Variables evaluated in the demonstration include the substrates on which the PCB coatings have been applied (i.e., metal, concrete or wood); age of the coatings; adhesion, appearance: and substrate condition on removal of the BTS and PCB coating. Field testing included applying the treatment substrate to various surfaces with coatings containing PCBs and evaluating the removal of the PCBs from the surface and destruction of the PCB by the treatment substrate. The demonstration goal was to reach PCB concentrations below the Toxic Substances Control Act limit of 50 parts per million (ppm) in the paint on all structures tested. The goal was achieved but, depending on initial concentrations, multiple BTS applications were required.