Contaminated sites impacted by Light Nonaqueous Phase Liquids (LNAPL) and Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquids (DNAPL) present significant remediation challenges. These contaminants, often consisting of hydrocarbons, solvents, and other industrial chemicals, pose risks to groundwater and soil quality. Mobile Dual Phase Extraction (MDPE) is a highly effective solution for removing LNAPL and DNAPL contamination, offering rapid response, flexibility, and comprehensive contaminant recovery.
Understanding LNAPL and DNAPL Behavior
LNAPL: Light Nonaqueous Phase Liquids
LNAPLs are petroleum-based contaminants, such as gasoline, diesel, and crude oil, that are lighter than water. They tend to accumulate on top of the water table, forming a floating layer that can spread laterally and act as a long-term source of groundwater contamination.
DNAPL: Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquids
DNAPLs, including chlorinated solvents like trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE), are denser than water. Instead of floating, DNAPLs sink through the water column until they encounter an impermeable layer, making them harder to detect and remove. DNAPLs can penetrate deep into subsurface formations, creating long-term contamination risks.
How MDPE Removes LNAPL and DNAPL
MDPE is a powerful remediation technique that utilizes high-vacuum extraction to simultaneously remove free-phase product, dissolved contaminants, and vapor-phase pollutants. This dual-phase approach makes it particularly effective for sites impacted by LNAPL and DNAPL.
1. High-Vacuum Extraction of Free-Phase Product
MDPE systems apply a strong vacuum to extraction wells, efficiently removing LNAPL from the water table. By reducing the thickness of the free product layer, MDPE helps prevent further migration and reduces the potential for groundwater contamination.
2. Removal of DNAPL in Subsurface Zones
For DNAPL contamination, MDPE targets pooled or residual product in fractures and low-permeability zones. The vacuum-enhanced pumping system helps mobilize and extract DNAPL from subsurface formations, minimizing its long-term persistence in the environment.
3. Simultaneous Water and Vapor Extraction
Unlike traditional pump-and-treat systems, MDPE removes both liquid-phase and vapor-phase contaminants. This dual approach captures volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from LNAPL and DNAPL, improving overall site remediation efficiency.
4. Minimizing Smearing Effects
LNAPL can create a smear zone as water levels fluctuate, leading to persistent contamination in both the saturated and unsaturated zones. MDPE continuously adjusts pumping rates to optimize removal without spreading contaminants further into the subsurface.
Why MDPE is the Ideal Solution for LNAPL and DNAPL Sites
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Rapid Mobilization & Deployment: MDPE units can be quickly transported to sites, providing immediate response to contamination events.
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Flexibility Across Various Lithologies: Effective in sandy, silty, or fractured bedrock environments where traditional methods may struggle.
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Minimized Downtime & Disruption: Since MDPE is a mobile system, remediation can proceed without extensive site preparation or infrastructure modifications.
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Comprehensive Contaminant Removal: Addresses free-phase, dissolved, and vapor-phase contamination simultaneously.
Partner with Talon/LPE for MDPE Solutions
MDPE provides an advanced, adaptable approach for managing complex LNAPL and DNAPL contamination challenges. If you need expert assistance in site assessment, MDPE deployment, or long-term remediation strategies, Talon/LPE is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project needs and find the best solution for your site remediation goals.