SDB SYSTEM
for contaminated soil
Revolutionizing Bioremediation: Soil degradation by bacteria. Suitable for the remediation of oil and pollutant contaminated soil.
Client Case Study:
Restoring Environmental Harmony through Biological Decontamination of a Contaminated Site in the Swiss Alps
Introduction
The successful application of the SDB System as the biological decontamination techniques to remediate a hydrocarbon leakage of synthetic dielectric oil in the pristine surroundings of the Swiss Alps. Coordinated by an independent environmental engineering firm and supported by meticulous sampling and analysis, the project exemplifies a proactive approach towards restoring ecological balance in a sensitive alpine ecosystem.
Background
The contamination stemmed from the rupture of a high voltage cable head during maintenance works, resulting in the leakage of synthetic dielectric oil type C10-C40. Located at an altitude of 600 meters in the Swiss Alps, the affected area spanned 750 square meters at a depth of 10 centimeters from the surface, totaling 75 cubic meters of polluted soil. The soil composition, characterized by gravel and minerals with minimal organic matter and microbiological activity, posed unique challenges to the remediation process.
Objective
The primary objective of the project was to mitigate the environmental impact of the hydrocarbon leakage and restore the contaminated site to its original state. Through the implementation of biological decontamination methods, the aim was to achieve significant pollutant reduction while ensuring compliance with legal regulations governing pollution levels.
Implementation
1.
Project Coordination:
An independent environmental engineering firm was entrusted with the coordination of the remediation project, overseeing sampling, analysis, and treatment activities.
2.
Sampling and Analysis:
Extensive sampling and analysis were conducted, with samples sent to an external laboratory certified to ISO17025 standards. This rigorous approach ensured accurate assessment and monitoring of pollutant levels throughout the remediation process.
3.
Biological Decontamination:
Biological decontamination techniques were employed to target the hydrocarbon contamination in the soil. Despite the soil’s poor organic content and low microbiological activity, specialized methods were applied to enhance remediation efficiency.
4.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
Progress was monitored closely throughout the remediation process, with periodic assessments conducted to measure pollutant reduction. After one month of treatment, significant progress was observed, with 90% of the pollution removed, including 80% of the contamination originating from the leak.
Results
The implementation of biological decontamination techniques yielded promising results, with 90% of the pollution successfully removed within one month of treatment. Notably, 80% of the contamination originating from the high voltage cable head rupture was effectively remediated. These results were well below legal limits for a polluted site, indicating substantial progress towards environmental restoration.
Conclusion
The successful remediation of the contaminated site in the Swiss Alps demonstrates the efficacy of biological decontamination in mitigating environmental pollution. While the achieved results were sufficient to declare the site as non-polluted, ongoing monitoring was preferred by the client to ensure full recovery to its original state. This case study underscores the importance of proactive intervention and specialized techniques in safeguarding sensitive ecosystems from environmental degradation.