| Abstract: | Through volatilization and long distance atmospheric transport, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been redistributed throughout the global environment. Over the last 70 years, these compounds have permeated every known environmental niche including the remote polar regions of the globe. In this article, the solubility and volatility of the PCB congeners are reviewed relative to the remedial technologies that are currently in use or under consideration. The following discussion focuses primarily on the management options for PCB-contaminated, subaqueous solids that require removal, dewatering, drying, and other treatment to degrade the target contaminants and/or containment in engineered facilities including constructed islands, upland secure landfills and subaqueous pits. Environmental mobility resulting from natural and engineered processes is discussed in relation to the potential for contributing to the global loading and redistribution of PCBs. Additionally, select emerging technologies and management options are reviewed relative to their potential to produce secondary environmental impacts resulting from the soluble and/or volatile redistribution of PCBs. Based on a lack of long-term experience and the recognition that contaminants will remain unaltered for decades, technologies involving engineered containment structures should be considered temporary remedial measures until cost-competitive, destructive processing of contaminated sediments is feasible. |
