Abstract |
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) and Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Programs to facilitate deployment of innovative technologies through performance verification and information dissemination. In April and May 1999, the EPA conducted a field demonstration of the Split Core Sampler along with one other sediment sampler. This verification statement focuses on the Split Core Sampler; a similar statement has been prepared for the other sampler. The performance and cost of the Split Core Sampler were compared to those of two conventional samplers (the Hand Corer and Vibrocorer), which were used as reference samplers. To verify a wide range of performance attributes, the Split Core Sampler demonstration had both primary and secondary objectives. Primary objectives for this demonstration included evaluating the samplers ability to (1) consistently collect a given volume of sediment, (2) consistently collect sediment in a given depth interval, (3) collect samples with consistent characteristics from a homogenous layer of sediment, (4) collect a representative sample from a clean sediment layer below a contaminated sediment layer, and (5) be adequately decontaminated. Additional primary objectives were to measure sampling time and estimate sampling costs. Secondary objectives included (1) documenting the skills and training required for sampler operation, (2) evaluating the samplers ability to collect samples under a variety of site conditions, (3) assessing the samplers ability to collect an undisturbed sample, (4) evaluating sampler durability, and (5) documenting the availability of the sampler and its spare parts. To ensure data usability, data quality indicators for precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness, and comparability were also assessed based on project-specific QA objectives. |