CoBupH is a safe, easy-to-use, long-lasting, colloidal buffer that can be mixed with any EOS® emulsified oil product or used alone for long-term pH control. At many sites, acidic groundwater increases metals mobility and inhibits contaminant biodegradation. CoBupH was recently used in a biobarrier with EOS Pro to treat groundwater containing RDX, HMX, and perchlorate. A single CoBupH injection was effective in raising groundwater pH, and maintaining near neutral pH for over one year (Figure 1, Hatzinger). Reductive dechlorination is especially sensitive to low pH and CoBupH is often added to stimulate DCE and VC conversion to ethene.

CoBupH is a concentrated suspension of tiny (~ 1 µm) particles of Mg(OH)₂ with a median particle size (D₅₀) between 0.5 and 0.7 µm. Mg(OH)₂ is ideal for aquifer pH adjustment because it provides a large amount of alkalinity per Kg, and slowly dissolves over time. Standard Mg(OH)₂ formulations can rapidly flocculate, clogging aquifer pores and making it difficult to inject. CoBupH uses proprietary stabilization agents (US Patent 9,393,602) to prevent flocculation, increase injectability, and improve transport through aquifers. CoBupH is shipped as a ready-to-use, concentrated suspension that can be easily diluted with water in the field.