Airflow geometry in air sparging of fine-grained sands

Laboratory visualization experiments in fine-to very fine-grained sands (grain diameter <0.21 mm) reveal a previously unrecognized air-flow geometry. This air-flow geometry is termed "chamber flow" and is characterized by: (I)a significant horizontal component, (2) pervasive air-flow coverage within a region demarcated by a distinct, irregular boundary, and (3) the presence of predominantly vertical inlet and outlet channels. The attributes of chamber flow differ significantly from channelized flow and pervasive/bubbly flow, which occur at larger grain sizes and have been described in the literature by several researchers. Previous research, which indicates a dramatic increase in contaminant removal time in sediments <0.2 mm, indirectly corroborates the phenomena observed in this study. The extent of sediment column affected by chamber flow of sparge air ranges from 4-54% on an area basis, and is approximately 28% on a volume basis. These values indicate that chamber air flow has the potential to affect a much larger percentage of the sediment column than either channelized or pervasive/bubbly flow. Because of the irregularity of airflow chambers, in terms of both form and frequency, a detailed knowledge of stratigraphy is important to maximize air-sparging efficiency at sites where chamber flow is likely to occur.