Process of mobilization and solubilization of the contamination present in the unsaturated and saturated area for its subsequent in situ treatment (bioremediation, ISCO) or extraction by pump and treat.

Allows the mobilization of a wide range of contaminants (TPH, BTEX, PAH, ..)

Free Phase Mobilization (NAPL)

Periods from weeks to months.

Unsaturated zone and saturated zone.

May require several applications.

Soil washing using surfactants

Technological solutions for the remediation of contaminated sites.

The low solubility of the components of the non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPL-Non Aqueos Phase Liquids) in the unsaturated and saturated zone, limits the conventional remediation processes of aquifers by pumping and treatment. The aquifer remediation process using surfactants or tensioactives (SEAR-Surfactant-enhanced aquifer remediation) increases the mass of pollutant extracted by washing using surfactants and cosolvents.

Surfactants have hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts and form micelles when their concentration is greater than the critical micelle concentration (CMC). Surfactants accumulate at the NAPL / water interface, reducing surface tension and mobilizing the mass of NAPL and increasing its solubilization.

The sites where SEAR processes are applied require a hydraulic control system that prevents the escape of mobilized hydrocarbons and their impact on downstream receivers. The appropriate surfactant should be chosen based on the contamination present and the hydrogeological characteristics of the site, as long as it ensures proper mobilization and emulsification. The application of surfactants reduces remediation times and avoids spikes associated with the mobilization of pollutants present in the oscillation band with variations in the water table.

Envirotecnics is a manufacturer and distributor of non-ionic surfactants Envirosurf and related products. With more than a decade of experience in research and laboratory tests related to the development of surfactants and with treatability studies for the work of soils contaminated with hydrocarbons.

We have a technical team with extensive knowledge and experience in pilot tests in the field and in the application of remediation products.

Related services

  • Batch stirring study to determine the optimal surfactant concentration
  • Dynamic study in lysimeters to study the effect of surfactants on the mobilization of pollutants in the soil.
  • Determination of HLB and design of tailored surfactants.

Related projects

Dual modular skid for venting and sparging

Modular treatment unit for venting and sparging

Open channel flow measurement in a landfill

The project involved the installation of a system to measure the flow of an open channel located in a landfill. The channel carries rainwater and runoff water.It is usually dry, but periodically, when there is heavy rainfall, it will carry a considerable amount of water.

Pump and treat units for reduced space

Pump and treat unit for reduced space designed to remove hydrocarbons, each fitted with fireproof, thermal, and acoustic insulation.

Evaluation of surfactants for HCH mobilisation

Envirotecnics carried out laboratory trials to evaluate the use of surfactants for the mobilisation of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) in the non-aqueous phase present in the Sardas landfill (Aragon).

Are you planning a project with SURFACTANTS?
Contact us to determine the best strategy.