A burning chemical waste disposal site: investigation, assessment and rehabilitation

D. L. Barry, J. M. Campbell and E. H. Jones

A series of underground fires on a site previously used for the disposal of chemical wastes from the nylon industry was causing a nuisance, and restricting the commercial development of the site and adjacent areas. The physical and environmental contexts of the combustion zones required most careful examination, both from the investigation and potential rehabilitation viewpoints. This paper outlines the structured approach adopted on this unique project, involving considerable expertise in investigative and analytical techniques, chemical processes, environmental health and engineering practice.
The investigation, using a number of practical techniques, involved the collection and analyses of solid, gaseous and vapour samples, including combustion and pyrolytic products. The combustion systems were identified by a series of investigation stages and relevant options for effective reclamation were then examined. The preferred strategy principally involved ground pre-treatment, ground temperature monitoring and waste excavation, redeposition and covering. The works were carried out successfully under close supervision of suitably experienced environmental scientists and civil engineers.

3 (3) 1995

Updated: 09-Jun-2005