This technology creates a low-permeability barrier by inserting multiple freezing pipes into contaminated soil and circulating refrigerant to freeze the surrounding ground. Extraction wells are then installed at a distance from this barrier to recover liquid contaminants concentrated in the area.
Existing electro-remediation methods are less effective in highly permeable sandy soil, while soil washing faces challenges with poor water flow in cohesive soil and potential secondary contamination from chemical solutions. Permeable reactive barriers require separate processes to direct contaminated water toward the barrier and involve high excavation costs. Electro-kinetic remediation also involves the cumbersome continuous injection of wash water and chemicals, with lingering concerns regarding secondary pollution.
This technology features freezing pipes with bidirectional fins along their length or protrusions that increase in length from top to bottom, expanding the frozen zone and directing contaminants toward the extraction wells. Inserting pipes down to the impermeable layer prevents contaminants from escaping beneath the barrier. The system works regardless of soil type without requiring additional chemicals or microorganisms. It is ideal for restoring landfills, industrial sites contaminated with oil or heavy metals, and former military bases, as it temporarily contains the spread of pollution and leaves no trace once the ice wall is melted and removed.
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