Modelling future levels of nitrosamines and nitramines in a groundwater compartment close to a CO2 capture facility

Summary

Future levels of the carcinogenic and potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines (NSAs) and nitramines (NAs), respectively, were modelled in two water protection aquifers, Ramlösa Hälsobrunn and Åstorp, considering amine-based CO2 capture at the nearby Filborna EfW plant. A high-resolution and dynamic catchment model (INCA- Contaminants) was used. NSA and NA deposition rates (provided by Norsk Energi) were combined with site specific information (hydrology and climate), and literature values of NSA and NA physiochemical properties and degradation rates. Water residence time and NSA and NA biodegradation half-lives were found to be the most uncertain and influential parameters. At both sites, NSA and NA levels are likely to remain below the recommended safety limit (4 ng L-1), but care should be taken due to the uncertainty of the half-life. At Åstorp, additional uncertainty is associated with the result due to the uncertain water residence time of the aquifer.