Author(s)

S. Nusimovich

Abstract

Integrated remediation of brownfield sites using batch and continuous thermal desorption combined with physiochemical processes S.Nusimovich Tox Free Solutions Ltd, Australia Abstract The use of an integrated approach to manage environmental cleanups, based on the use of thermal desorption and other processes, is ideally suited for the management of brownfield sites. Processing of sludge, sediment, and contaminated soil using continuous indirect thermal desorption based on a vertical retort achieves the desired cleanup levels for contaminants such as organic compounds, pesticides, and PCB. This process when connected to a high-temperature ceramic filtration unit and a full-condensing gas treatment train, in combination with destruction processes such as plasma destruction or recycling processes for organic compounds, offer a range of resources that, when used in an integrated way, can deliver the desired results whilst minimising environmental and health risks and achieving a one stop solution. The effectiveness of this system is supported by data from industrial-scale applications of the processes in the treatment of PCB-contaminated soil and tetrachloroethylene-contaminated material. 1 Introduction Progress and industrialisation have brought about immense improvements in our quality of life. This development has produced a number of impacts, both negative and positive. Amongst the negative impact of this development, the adverse effects on the environment caused by the release of chemicals are considered to be the most significant. The discharge of contaminated liquids has impacted waterways and aquifers with a variety of chemicals, including both halogenated and non-halogenated organic compounds.

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