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Soil Removal
Removal of soil contaminated by petroleum products begins with the removal of the underground storage tank, or UST. All tainted soil surrounding the UST must be dug up. The amount of soil depends upon the duration of the leak and the nature of the soil. The more soil, the greater the need for vapor suppression.
Covering
One method of vapor suppression is outlined by a rule from the Ventura California Air Control Pollution District. It involves covering the contaminated soil with a heavy duty plastic sheet, defined as 4 mil or greater. Mil is a unit of measurement for plastic sheeting; one mil equals 0.001 inch. The rule requires a sheet in good condition that overlaps around the seams. Make sure it stays in place, and the method is complete. This method is the one most commonly used, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.
Water
Applying water to the contaminated soil decreases emissions of vapors. The success of this method depends upon the premise that temperature is a factor in emissions. The higher the temperature, the more vapors. Water reduces the temperature of the soil. There is no data to quantify the effect of water, according to the EPA. Its effectiveness depends upon the type of soil and its ability to absorb water. Reducing the amount of time the soil is left exposed before being carrying away from the excavation site increases the usefulness of this method.
Foams
Another method cited by the EPA is the use of foam, both as a temporary and long-term means of controlling emissions. The EPA indicates that temporary foams control from 75 to 95 percent of emissions, while permanent foams suppress up to 99 percent.