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Surface NMR Instrumentation and Analysis Methods for Characterizing Vadose Zone…

Award Information

Agency:
Department of Energy 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
89943 		Program Year/Program:
2008 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
 Solicitation Year:
N/A 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N/A 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
Vista Clara Inc.
12201 Cyrus Way Suite 104 Mukilteo, WA -
View profile »
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2008
Title: Surface NMR Instrumentation and Analysis Methods for Characterizing Vadose Zone Hydrology
Agency: DOE
Contract: DE-FG02-08ER84979
Award Amount: $100,000.00
 

Abstract:

The DoE is responsible for the investigation and remediation of large-scale subsurface contamination at several existing and former facilities. Understanding the hydrogeology of the vadose zone is crucial to understanding transport and fate of underground contaminants. This project will develop practical field-based measurement and analysis techniques for determining vadose zone transport properties from multi-coil surface NMR measurements. Phase I will (1) demonstrate the theoretical and practical basis for using surface NMR geophysics to detect and characterize vadose zone water, and (2) translate NMR signal properties of vadose zone water into hydraulic properties and/or transport models at the site scale. Phase II will entail full-scale development of vadose-zone surface NMR instrumentation and analysis methods, coupled with extensive laboratory and field testing at DOE facilities. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The surface NMR instrumentation and analysis technique should enable high-resolution, non-invasive measurement of gravitational, capillary, and clay-bound water content in the unsaturated zone. These measurement capabilities would enable more accurate prediction of contaminant transport and aquifer recharge processes. In addition to the DOE application, the technology should find use in assessing the feasibility and efficacy of aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) projects.

Principal Investigator:

David O. Walsh
Dr.
4252903626
davewalsh@vista-clara.com

Business Contact:

Oliver O. Walsh
Dr.
4252903626
davewalsh@vista-clara.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

Vista Clara Inc.
2615 W Casino Road, Suite 4-JK Everett, WA 98204

EIN/Tax ID: 200984690
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees:
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No