Non-aqueous phase liquid

Non-aqueous phase liquids, or NAPLs, are organic liquid contaminants characterized by their relative immiscibility with water. Common examples of NAPLs are petroleum products, coal tars, chlorinated solvents, and pesticides. Strategies employed for their removal from the subsurface environment have expanded since the late-20th century.[1][2]

NAPLs can be released into the environment from a variety of point sources such as improper chemical disposal, leaking underground storage tanks, septic tank effluent, and percolation from spills or landfills. The movement of NAPLs within the subsurface environment is complex and difficult to characterize. Nonetheless, the various parameters that dictate their movement are important to understand in order to determine appropriate remediation strategies. These strategies use NAPLs' physical, chemical, and biological properties to minimize their presence in the subsurface.

Underground fuel storage tank above ground. Leakage of underground storage tanks (LUSTs) are a common point-source of NAPL pollution.
  1. ^ Huling, Scott G.; Weaver, James W. "Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquids". nepis.epa.gov. Retrieved 28 October 2023.
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference McCarty-2010 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).