One of the in-situ remedial technologies available is air sparging (AS). This remedial technology reduces the concentrations of volatile constituents in soils and groundwater by the injection of contaminant-free air into the subsurface saturated zone. It produces a phase transfer of hydrocarbons from a dissolved sate to a vapor phase. Then, the air is vented through the unsaturated zone. It is commonly used with soil vapor extraction (SVE).
The advantages of air sparging are the following:
- Proven performance; readily available equipment; easy installation; agency approved.
- Minimal disturbance to site soils.
- Short treatment times (usually one to three years under optimal conditions).
- Requires no removal, treatment, storage, or discharge considerations for groundwater.
- Can enhance removal by SVE.
The disadvantages of air sparging are the following:
- Cannot be used if free product is present.
- Cannot be used in confined aquifers.
- Stratified soils will negatively impact AS.
- Potential for inducing migration of constituents.
- Requires detailed pilot testing and monitoring to ensure vapor control and limit migration.
To learn more about air sparging, contact one of the environmental remediation specialists at August Mack Environmental at 800.579.0770.
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