LNAPL (Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid)

LNAPL (Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid) refers to a type of liquid contaminant that is less dense than water and does not dissolve easily in it. Common examples include gasoline and certain solvents. Because they are lighter than water, LNAPLs tend to sit on top of water in the ground or in a shallow layer, forming a separate phase. They are important in environmental cleanup because they can spread across the surface of water sources, making removal and remediation more challenging. Understanding LNAPLs helps in assessing and managing groundwater contamination from fuel spills and similar leaks.