Barry Freifeld

Current Research Areas

Development of Portable X-ray Imaging Systems- Developed portable x-ray imaging systems for field applications. The initial prototype was used on the Ocean Drilling Program research vessel JOIDES/Resolution to image oceanic sediment cores. A system incorporating a micro-focal x-ray source has been developed for imaging both large cores at medium resolution and core plugs at high resolution.

Site Remediation Activities- Thermally enhanced soil vapor extraction system: Pilot scale investigation of thermally enhanced soil vapor and groundwater extraction to clean up recalcitrant VOCs located north of Building 7, LBNL. Implemented various hydrological tests and monitoring systems at numerous locations (ie. LBNL, INEEL, SRS, McClellan Air Force Base, Fort Ord.)

Clathrate Compounds- Involved in laboratory and modeling studies of the behavior of clathrate compounds in porous media. Research uses X-ray imaging systems to study kinetic processes of dissociating methane hydrate. Modeling studies are aimed at determining the feasibility of using naturally occurring hydrates as an energy resource.

Yucca Mountain Drift Scale Test- Developed methodologies for characterizing unsaturated zone flow and transport at Yucca Mountain. Currently working on a thermal testing program that simulates the influence of heat on coupled processes in fractured welded tuff.