Demonstration of a Polymer Coating on Contaminated Soil Piles

In Dust Control, Soil Stabilization, Soil-Sement® by Steve Vitale

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Background.

Many Naval facilities have stockpiles, awaiting remediation or off-site disposal. At the Naval Shipyard (NSY) Long Beach they had approximately 11,000 yd 3 of contaminated soil that needed covering to contain petroleum vapors and protect against erosion from wind and rain.

Problem.

Stockpiles of contaminated soils at cleanup sites must be protected to reduce dust and sediment from entering stormwater runoff. These soil piles are traditionally covered with two type of plastic covers: a clear cover that quickly deteriorates under ultraviolet light and a high density polyethylene cover, which is very expensive. Plastic covers are difficult to install and keep secured during strong winds and rainstorms.

Solution.

Midwest’s Soil-Sement® was selected as a cost effective method to protect soil from wind and rain, while being unaffected by ultraviolet light. It was approved by the Regional Water Quality Control Board and met the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System requirements for erosion control. Soil-Sement lasted longer and required less maintenance than a plastic cover.