Surfactant-enhanced in-situ remediation: Current and future techniques
- Eckenfelder Inc., Nashville, TN (United States)
The ability of surfactants to increase the solubilization of hydrophobic compounds is well documented. Eckenfelder Inc. has developed a technique by which the surfactant solution spent in the remediation of contaminated soil can be recycled and reused. This technique results in a significantly reduced volume of contaminants to be disposed of as well as substantial cost savings. While the ex-situ or washing technique is frequently more suitable to the use of surfactant-enhanced soil remediation, there are definite roles for the use of the in-situ application. This paper describes the recycling technology (including the scientific basis) which was developed to permit the reuse of the surfactant solution as well as provide samples of its efficacy. The authors will also present two scenarios in which the in-situ approach would be viable. The first scenario involves an impermeable layer such as bedrock or clay located beneath the aquifer. The second involves a man-made, bowl-like intragradient configuration whereby the surfactant solution is contained and pumped to the surface for treatment and reuse. The latter scenario can be especially desirable in areas where the ground water is deep and the contamination has not yet reached the aquifer. Another advantage of in-situ surfactant-enhanced remediation is its potential (in some cases) to separate mixed wastes, i.e., remove nonradioactive organic compounds while minimally affecting the radioactive inorganic contaminants.
- OSTI ID:
- 398083
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-941124--; ISBN 0-935470-85-9
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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