Numerical Simulation of Dual-Phase Vacuum Extraction to Remove Nonaqueous Phase Liquids in Subsurface
Publication: Practice Periodical of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste Management
Volume 7, Issue 2
Abstract
Dual-phase vacuum extraction (DPVE) is an emerging cost-effective technology used to enhance remediation by recovering petroleum hydrocarbon from the subsurface. To improve its efficiency, insight into the complex processes and phase/component interactions in the remediation system needs to be gained before the system can be properly designed and operated. In this paper, a numerical simulation model is proposed to analyze the behavior of the complex DPVE remediation system. The simulator developed is then applied to a petroleum-contaminated site in western Canada that is undergoing the DPVE process. The influence of vacuum pressure employed at extraction wells on system performance is investigated. Moreover, the effects of parameter uncertainties in modeling results are also examined. The proposed approach offers an effective tool for evaluating remediation system performance and supporting decisions on site remediation and management practices.
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Published In
Practice Periodical of Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste Management
Volume 7 • Issue 2 • April 2003
Pages: 106 - 113
Copyright
Copyright © 2003 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Dec 4, 2002
Accepted: Dec 12, 2002
Published online: Mar 14, 2003
Published in print: Apr 2003
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