Introduction

In the world of environmental contamination, the risks are high. Hydrocarbon spills, leaks, and pollutants threaten ecosystems, human health, and land use. One effective way to clean up large areas of contaminated soil is through Ex Situ soil treatment. This method is often cheaper upfront than traditional methods and offers long-term benefits for the environment, the economy, and regulatory compliance. This article explores the costs and benefits of Ex Situ soil treatment and explains why it is a wise choice for environmental remediation projects.

In recent years, our industry has focused on finding better methods to efficiently and sustainably restore ecosystems to their original conditions. ACME Environmental has been a leader in this effort by implementing the best practices. A significant advancement we’ve made is our ability to provide Ex Situ remediation using our specialized shredding unit in combination with our proprietary treatment solution, “Contact Chemistry.” ACME Environmental excels in Ex Situ soil treatment, which involves treating contaminated soil with our proprietary mix of chemicals that effectively oxidize and remove hydrocarbons. The process begins by shredding the soil to increase its surface area, followed by immediate treatment with the solution right after it exits the shredding machine. The soil is then sent to a testing center to be tested before being returned to its original place. To watch a video of the Ex Situ unit in action, visit this link

ACME showcasing its Ex Situ unit at a trade show

Understanding Ex-Situ Soil Treatment

Ex Situ soil treatment is an effective method that involves excavating contaminated soil and treating it at a designated on-site area. Through this approach, we use a powerful proprietary mix of chemicals that effectively eliminates hydrocarbon contaminants. At ACME, we take this process even further by utilizing a mobile Ex Situ remediation unit designed to treat contaminated soil right at the source.

The Ex Situ unit allows us to treat contaminated soils directly on-site, minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. As the contaminated soil passes through our advanced shredding unit, it is finely broken down, further increasing the surface area available for treatment. This enables the proprietary mix of chemicals to oxidize hydrocarbons and other contaminants upon immediate contact while introducing oxygen into the soil matrix. This process allows hydrocarbons to break down into harmless carbon dioxide, which can easily escape into the atmosphere. Our mobile unit can process between 60 and 100 cubic yards of contaminated material per hour, depending on specific soil conditions. Additionally, the unit has sensors built into it that detect when soil is present, which then activates the spraying system. These sensors help ration our mix by toggling the spraying system on and off. Furthermore, when more enhanced treatment is needed, our unit is equipped with a 6-foot-diameter, 21-foot-long trommel, ensuring we can address various treatment requirements with precision and efficiency.

ACME’s Ex Situ mobile remediation unit

Applications of Ex Situ Remediation

Ex Situ treatment is a highly adaptable approach that proves to be effective in various situations, especially during incidents like oil spills that lead to large amounts of soil contamination. A great example occurred in August 2019 when ACME Environmental’s remediation team sprang into action to address a major oil spill in Kenedy, Texas. ACME managed to remediate and treat over 20,000 cubic yards of affected soil. For this project, we employed our Ex Situ Chemical Oxidation process, utilizing the Ex Situ mobile remediation unit. This machinery enabled our team to tackle more than 1,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil daily throughout the 21-day project.

By utilizing our Ex Situ mobile remediation unit, we can effectively address a wide range of oil spill incidents with effectiveness and efficiency. This innovative method is specifically designed to enhance our operational capabilities, allowing ACME to respond quickly to environmental emergencies. Its mobility means we can reach affected areas quickly, minimizing the impact of spills on ecosystems. As a result, we have significantly expanded our market presence, opening the door to a multitude of opportunities for responsive action and effective remediation strategies. This advancement not only strengthens our commitment to environmental protection but also positions us as a leader in the industry.

Savings Associated with the Ex Situ Mobile Remediation Unit

When it comes to dealing with contaminated soil, the financial burdens can be hefty. For example, the cost of disposing of soil in a landfill can start at $40 per cubic yard and even be upwards of $60 per cubic yard. If we look at a scenario where 6,000 cubic yards of soil are affected at $60 per cubic yard, the total disposal cost could approximately be $360,000. In contrast, using our Ex Situ treatment method eliminates the need for soil disposal, showcasing the sustainability and practicality of our approach. Beyond the expenses of disposal, there are significant logistical concerns in hiring subcontractors to excavate and transport such a large volume of contaminated soil. Transportation alone can become complex and expensive, potentially racking up tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars. This overall cost includes hiring truck drivers, excavation equipment, labor, and the time necessary to move the materials safely. Here at ACME, we have a team that can operate the appropriate excavation equipment, which in turn cuts down the additional costs of hiring equipment operators.

Moreover, it’s crucial to manage and contain the soil during transport using appropriate protective materials. One key item is Visqueen, a moisture-resistant plastic lining that prevents the spread of contaminants during handling and transportation. Implementing Visqueen is essential to ensure that contaminants remain contained and don’t cause further environmental damage; the costs can add up to the thousands. This situation highlights the complexities and financial responsibilities tied to the safe handling of contaminated soil, requiring careful consideration at every phase of the process.

The Ex Situ method offers a significantly lower cost alternative compared to the traditional “dig-and-haul” practice that has been the norm in environmental remediation. An analysis of the expenses linked to the dig-and-haul approach reveals that Ex Situ not only cuts costs but also alleviates several financial burdens. Our Ex Situ unit revolutionizes the process, making it more efficient by reducing both the need for transportation and labor. Additionally, ACME’s remediation unit’s commitment to environmental sustainability highlights its advantages, including a reduced environmental impact associated with the disposal of contaminated materials, helping to enhance cleanup efforts. In conclusion, our remediation unit proves to be a more efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional remediation methods.

Dig-and-haul method

Key Benefits of Ex-Situ Soil Treatment

Environmental Impact

Environmental concerns are a key part of remediation projects, just as important as reducing costs. The traditional dig-and-haul method requires a lot of labor and fuel, which leads to high carbon emissions. This approach has a significant environmental impact because the emissions from heavy truck use harm air quality. Additionally, moving large amounts of soil puts strain on landfills, which can degrade the soil and harm local ecosystems when rain falls.

On the other hand, Ex Situ remediation offers a more sustainable, economical, and environmentally friendly option. This method treats contaminated soil right at the site instead of hauling it away. The advanced technique of chemical oxidation breaks down harmful hydrocarbons, allowing the soil to be cleaned and reused on-site. This approach has many benefits, including a major decrease in landfill use and a smaller overall environmental impact. By reducing transportation emissions and protecting local ecosystems, Ex Situ remediation offers a more responsible way to manage contaminated soil.

Regulatory Compliance

Our approach stands out in the industry, thanks to our innovative dual spray system, a key feature of our mobile remediation unit. This system effectively treats contaminated soil by using two sprayers to ensure even and thorough coverage. ACME has a proven track record of successfully remediating various types of soil affected by petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, condensate, and lube oil, demonstrating our expertise in addressing diverse environmental challenges. By leveraging this advanced approach, we significantly reduce our clients’ liability risks, minimizing potential exposure to accidents, insurance claims, and the burden of disposing of contaminated soil at landfills, along with the potential reputational risks associated with it.

Our chemical oxidation method has been recognized by several regulatory agencies but not limited to, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ), Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC), and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This support highlights our commitment to safety, following regulations, and achieving high standards in environmental remediation. Additionally, this oxidation method has yet to have a state entity reject it, making it highly competitive.

Pursuing Sustainability

In our cost-benefit analysis, we looked at both the financial costs and environmental effects of using an Ex Situ remediation method. This approach not only addresses the costs of remediating contaminated soil but also considers long-term benefits, such as making land more usable and saving money on future remediation efforts. ACME’s Ex Situ mobile remediation unit demonstrates our commitment to taking care of the environment by efficiently managing and treating contaminated soil. Our method helps reduce pollution and prevents further harm to the environment. Using sustainable practices supports responsible resource use and focuses on the health of ecosystems, meeting the expectations of regulators and communities for good environmental practices. Additionally, the long-term economic benefits, like better public health and the possibility of increased agricultural productivity and land development, make this approach a smart choice. By treating soil effectively today, we help ensure sustainable economic growth and environmental health in the future. While we suggest using our Ex Situ remediation method, ACME is capable of managing dig-and-haul as well as In Situ remediation methods.

Contact us at ACME Environmental to explore our comprehensive and responsible remediation strategies designed to enhance the appearance and health of your surrounding environment. Together, we can create a cleaner, safer, and more appealing environment for you and your community.