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

Pumping system design for ISCO

Design and implementation of a system for the pumping and injection of oxidising agents for an ISCO pilot test at the Bailin landfill site.

Mobilization and transfer of TPH

Envirotecnics designs and sizes the washing project and also supplies and applies the non-ionic and biodegradable surfactant Envirosurf.

Sensorization project in the Ter river

equipment and installation of water level sensors in two local experimental control networks in the Baix Ter area.

ISCO oxidant pumping system

Our turnkey service allows us to guarantee our clients the complete cycle of each unit delivered.

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