WO2013116409A1 - System and method for mixing dry powders with liquids to create injectable slurries - Google Patents

Abstract

A system and method for remediating a contaminated site includes a mixing tank and a first input port and a second input port. The system configured with an emissions mitigation system is in communication with a mixing tank. The emissions mitigation system configured to reduce emissions, e.g., dust emissions. Another aspect is directed towards sorbents with one or more of dyes, coatings, additives and combinations of the same.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MIXING DRY POWDERS WITH LIQUIDS TO

CREATE INJECTABLE SLURRIES

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No.

61/594,184 entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MIXING DRY POWDERS WITH LIQUIDS TO CREATE INJECTABLE SLURRIES," filed on February 2, 2012, and Serial No. 61/683,133 entitled "REMEDIATING PETROLEUM CONTAMINANTS WITH ACTIVATED CARBON INJECT ATES," filed on August 14, 2012, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

[0002] The invention generally relates to a system for remediating a contaminated site, and more particularly to a method, system and sorbents for injecting an injectate into a contaminated site.

Discussion of Related Art

[0003] Current systems for remediation require pouring dry powder from a bag into a mixing tank and then adding water to the tank. The dry powder and water are then mixed using a mechanical mixing device.

[0004] The process of manually pouring dry powders into a mixer present several problems. One problem arises when the dry powder creates dust which is emitted into the air. As many of the dry powders are in themselves hazardous to humans and the environment, the dust creates a potentially dangerous environment to personnel performing the injections, the nearby public and the environment.

[0005] Another problem with the related processes is that portions of the dry powder bags may become torn from the bag during handling and subsequently enter the mixing tank. Any debris entering the mixing tank can damage the injection pump. Moreover, when adding powder and water, it is often important to know accurately how much powder is being added to the mixing tank. In the related art, the person adding the powder to the mixing tank can only roughly estimate the amount of powder poured from the bag into the mixing tank. For example, if a design calls for a mixture of 30 pounds of dry powder to be added from a 50 pound bag to the mixing tank, the person pouring the powder only estimates when 3/5 of a 50 pound bag of powder has been added to the mixing tank.

[0006] In addition, a large amount of emissions, e.g., dust emissions, are created when the dry powders are poured into a mixing tank. As a result, the mixing tank and ancillary equipment are normally placed in an open environment so that the dust is carried into the environment and away from the person adding the powder. These emissions may be hazardous to the people and environment and often occur in populated areas.

[0007] Therefore there is a need for a system and method that addresses these problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The above and other problems are addressed by the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, which provide methods to accurately measure and transfer dry powders from a container to a mixing tank while limiting or eliminating the amount of dust created and discharged into the environment thereby protecting the workers involved with mixing the dry powders, nearby people, the environment and the injection equipment.

[0009] An advantage of the invention is to provide a method and/or system to accurately weigh and transfer dry powder, limit the amount of dust emitted, mix the powder with a solution and measure the amount of slurry being mixed.

[0010] Yet another advantage of the invention is to provide increased injection rates as compared to the related art.

[0011] Still yet another advantage of the invention is to provide a method and/or system configured to operate with a significant reduction in dust emitted during operation, e.g., while adding the dry powder to the mixing tank.

[0012] Yet still another advantage of the invention is to measure the injectate powder to the nearest 1 lb and eliminate the potential for debris to enter the mixing tank.

[0013] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

[0014] Embodiments of the invention are directed towards injecting an injectate, e.g., a slurry, including a mixture of chemical and/or biological compounds, into the contaminated subsurface area wherein the injectate is configured to react with, or alter, the contaminants to render them harmless to the environment. [0015] Another embodiment of the invention is directed towards a system configured to deliver the injectates into the subsurface, e.g., a system including a small hollow rod inserted into the subsurface and injecting the injectate through the center of the rod using a pump. A wide variety of compounds designed to be used as injectates are available on the market. Many of the available compounds may be used for creating the injectate and include a sorbent, e.g., dry powder, dry granular or dry fibrous material. This sorbent material is commonly sold in bags weighing approximately 50 pounds. The sorbent material is mixed with water and then injected into the ground. Other additives may be added to the sorbent to form an injectate prior to injection.

[0016] Yet another embodiment is directed towards a system for remediating a contaminated site and includes a mixing tank and a first inlet and second inlet. The first inlet is in

communication with the mixing tank and is configured to receive a sorbent material. The second inlet is in communication with the mixing tank and is configured to receive one or more of a gas, a liquid, and other additives. An agitator is configured to create a slurry of the dry powder and aqueous solution within the mixing tank. An emission mitigation system is in communication with the mixing tank. The dust mitigation system is configured to reduce emissions, e.g., dust emissions. The mixing tank includes an output configured to deliver an injectate to an output pump.

[0017] In still another embodiment a method of using a diaphragm pump as part of a remediation system includes applying a sorbent to a mixing tank with the diaphragm pump and applying an aqueous solution to the mixing tank.

[0018] In yet another embodiment a method of using a dust mitigation system as part of a remediation system includes applying dry powder to a mixing tank and operating the dust mitigation system to reduce dust in the applying step.

[0019] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0021] In the drawings: [0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram depicting a system for remediating a contaminated site according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 2A illustrates a system to transfer sorbent from a sorbent container to a mixing tank according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 2B illustrates a suction probe and an anti dead-head apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 3A illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 3B illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0027] FIG. 3C illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0029] FIG. 5A illustrates a system to control emissions using a spray arrangement in which the mixed slurry is recirculated into the mixing tank according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0030] FIG. 5B illustrates a system to control emissions using a spray arrangement in which the mixed slurry is recirculated into the mixing tank in combination with a separate arrangement of nozzles in the mixing tank with a ventilation stack according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0031] FIG. 6A illustrates a system to accurately weigh the amount of sorbent transferred using a scale according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0032] FIG. 6B illustrates a system to accurately weigh the amount of sorbent transferred using a load cell suspending the sorbent container according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram depicting a system for remediating a contaminated site according to an embodiment of the invention; and

[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates a diagram of preventatively injecting a sorbent material into a plurality of subsurface regions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] The invention generally relates to a system for remediating a contaminated site, and more particularly to a method and system for injecting an injectate into a contaminated site. [0036] In order to more fully appreciate the present disclosure and to provide additional related features, the following references are incorporated therein by reference in their entirety:

[0037] (1) U.S. Patent No. 3,746,655 by Urbanic which discloses a particulate activated carbon that may be made with a colorful decorative coating without sacrificing a significant portion of its absorptivity, by utilizing a thermoplastic resin as a medium for coating the carbon and adhering a pigment to the coating.

[0038] (2) U.S. Patent No. 4,588,299 by Brown, et al. which discloses an apparatus and process for producing cement slurry on a batch basis is disclosed. During the charging of a slurry batcher with water and cement, the cement dust so produced is captured and added back to the slurry being batched in order to minimize health and environmental hazards created by the cement dust. This is achieved by passing or venting entrapped air and dust in the batcher through air vent and cement dust collection means which in one embodiment comprises a water reservoir through which the air and dust passes. Dust is captured by the reservoir water and the reservoir water is then discharged into the batcher so as to become part of the slurry batch with known and predetermined amounts of water and cement in the slurry.

[0039] (3) U.S. Patent No. 4,830,505 by Dunton, et al. which discloses a method of mixing particulate cement and water in a primary mixing vessel to form a slurry batch, includes introducing a measured quantity of water into the vessel, introducing a measured quantity of particulate cement into the vessel, agitating the water and cement in the vessel to form a slurry, and while continuing such agitating, pumping slurry from the lower interior of the vessel and delivering the pumped slurry to the upper interior of the vessel, at high velocity, removing slurry from the vessel for flow to an auxiliary mixing vessel for mixing with aggregate, and employing wash water to wash remnant slurry from surfaces in the primary mixing vessel for flow to the auxiliary vessel.

[0040] (4) U.S. Patent No. 5,403,809 by Miller, et al. which discloses porous bodies that are produced which are suitable for use as supports for catalysts, including living cells such as bacteria, and which are upset resistant to acids and bases. The bodies have a significantly large average pore diameter of about 0.5 to 100 microns, (i.e. 5,000 to 1,000,000 A) and a total pore volume of about 0.1 to 1.5 cc/g with the large pores contributing a pore volume of from about 0.1 to 1.0 cc/g. The bodies are made by preparing a mixture of ultimate particles containing a zeolite and one or more optional ingredients such as inorganic binders, extrusion or forming aids, burnout agents, or a forming liquid, such as water. Incorporated into the support is activated carbon which provides improved properties. In a preferred embodiment, the ultimate particles are formed by spray drying. [0041] (5) U.S. Patent No. 5,407,299 by Sutton which discloses a high rate, cement slurry mixing system and method which produces a highly dispersed slurry with the lowest possible viscosity in respect to the water cement ratio and the type and amount of chemical dispersant used in the slurry formulation. The slurry so produced is used in soil-cement construction operations and has the advantage of delayed hydration to allow reasonable time for slurry transport, spreading, intermixing with the soil, plus time for grading, shaping and compaction before a significant amount of cement hydration (setting) occurs.

[0042] (6) U.S. Patent No. 5,427,944 by Lee, et al. which discloses a mixed bacteria culture for biodegrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contaminants including Achromobacter sp. and Mycobacterium sp. which have been grown together and gradually acclimated to utilize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as a primary food source. The mixed bacteria culture can be utilized for in situ or ex situ bioremediation of contaminated soil, or in any of various conventional bioreactors to treat contaminated liquids such as landfill leachates, groundwater or industrial effluents. The bacteria, the nutrients used to sustain growth of the bacteria, and the products of the bio degradation of the polycyclic aromatic or other hydrocarbons are all substantially harmless to the environment. The mixed bacteria can be utilized in the presence of oxygen, or hydrogen peroxide can be used alone or in combination with oxygen as an effective alternative electron acceptor. The mixed bacteria culture of Achromobacter sp. and

Mycobacterium sp. provides an environmentally safe and affordable means for rapidly and effectively eliminating a variety of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contaminants from the environment.

[0043] (7) U.S. Patent No. 5,642,939 by Comardo which discloses an apparatus and method for unloading a fine powder-like pulverulent material from bags and mixing it with a liquid carrier in preparation for its use, while at the same time minimizing the potential for liberation of the particulate into the environmental air. Very finely particulate or flour-like pulverulent material is transferred by dumping it into a hopper. The pulverulent material is then mixed with a liquid carrier by a venturi that is located within a valve controlled, pump energized liquid circulation conduit system having connection with a supply vessel to circulate the mixture within the circulation vessel and supply vessel and thereby maintain an efficient liquid/pulverulent mixture that it is readily available for use. To minimize the potential for development of a potentially explosive or otherwise hazardous condition as the powder-like pulverulent material is transferred by dumping into the hopper of the system, the hopper is provided with an air by-pass system that is responsive to suction of the venturi to maintain the hopper under negative air pressure so that any pulverulent material that might have become entrained in the environmental air during material dumping will be drawn toward the bottom outlet of the hopper. Electronic control circuitry of the system ensures its timed and controlled operation and ensures that, if the system should shut down for any reason, a system flushing sequence must run to its completion to restore it to a clean condition for efficient use.

[0044] (8) U.S. Patent No. 5,733,067 by Hunt, et al. which discloses a method used for in situ remediation of contaminated subsurface ground and subsurface water using chemically or biologically reactive sheets. The reactive or active sheets contain one or more selected compounds capable of recovering, destroying, degrading and immobilizing contaminants in the soil or water. The compounds that will be selected depends on the contaminants to be treated. The compound may be diatomaceaous earth pellets or other porous materials inoculated with selected non-pathogenic microbes, a zero-valent metal such as iron, tin, aluminum and zinc, a leachable compound such as sodium percarbonate or an adsorptive compound such as activated carbon and zeolite. The contaminants may be petroleum hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons and other hazardous chemicals. The sheets are formed by injecting a slurry of the selected compound into the subsurface using hydraulic fracturing where the orientation of the fractures is influenced by cutting and preparing a bore hole prior to the injection of the slurry. Also the sheets may be formed by employing high velocity jet-assisted fracturing using air, water and other fluids. The jet-assisted fracturing operates prior to or concurrently with an introduction of a slurry of the selected compound. The sheets may be formed horizontally, vertically and at angles dipping from the horizontal.

[0045] (9) U.S. Patent No. 5,750,036 by Sivavec which discloses addition of ferrous ions to clay and ferric minerals in the ground creating in situ reactive zones which dehalogenate halogenated contaminants in ground water flowing through the reactive zone.

[0046] (10) U.S. Patent No. 5,833,855 by Saunders which discloses a method for removing heavy metals and halogenated hydrocarbons from contaminated groundwater. The method provides utilizing a treatment solution comprising a soluble source of organic carbon, ferrous iron, and sulfate. Additionally, the treatment solution may comprise sulfate reducing bacteria as well as nutrients for bacterial metabolism. The treatment is designed to stimulate the growth of naturally occurring sulfate reducing bacteria such that the metals are co-precipitated in iron sulfide and the hydrocarbons are reduced to innocuous byproducts.

[0047] (11) U.S. Patent No. 5,887,973 by Ahman, et al. which discloses a device for mixing particulate material and liquid including a container, an inlet for the introduction of particulate material into the container, a spraying means for spraying liquid over the particulate material in the container, an agitator arranged in the container, and an outlet for discharging material mixed with liquid from the container. A fluidization means is adapted to fluidize the particulate material in the container during the mixing operation.

[0048] (12) U.S. Patent No. 5,908,240 by Hood which discloses an apparatus for cement blending includes a pressure vessel for containing a slurry and an agitating member which mixes the slurry within the pressure vessel. The pressure vessel includes a first inlet for connection to a source of pressurized driving fluid and a first outlet through which the slurry can be discharged when the pressure vessel is pressurized by the driving fluid. The apparatus is capable of blending a thick slurry of water and cement. A vibrating mechanism vibrates the vessel to facilitate mixing of the slurry and discharge of the slurry from the vessel by the driving fluid.

[0049] (13) U.S. Patent No. 5,944,446 by Hocking which discloses an environmental engineering process for injecting a mixture into the ground to act as a containment barrier for fluids or gases or to act as an in situ waste remediation process. The process involves pumping a mixture into the ground so that the mixture penetrates from the injection source(s) to form overlapping and/or intersecting horizontal or vertical planar geometries. Control of the geometry of the propagating fracture is made by the down-hole outlet design and by interactively modifying mixture composition, injection pressures and flow rates, according to the sequential calculation of the in situ injected geometry by an inverse or tomographic method from monitored response of detection devices.

[0050] (14) U.S. Patent No. 6,012,517 by Schuring, et al. which discloses an apparatus for pneumatically fracturing a soil formation, and thereafter utilizing or maintaining the fracture network thus formed by continuous injection of a gas stream into the fracture network, and introducing into that gas stream dry media which is entrained in the gas stream and thereby dispersed and distributed through the soil formation in substantially predictable or predetermined patterns. The fracture network and/or the dry media contained therein create or enhance usefulness for a given purpose with respect to the soil formation. The primary usefulness of the apparatus is concerned with remediation of contaminated soil formations, although it can be used to inject chemical agents into soil formations for the purpose of managing plant life rooted in those soil formations, to inject propping agents into soil formations for the purpose of maintaining the fracture network in order to create subsurface drainage galleries, and to inject electrically conductive materials for in situ vitrification to create subsurface vitrified masses not only for isolating contaminants within a soil formation, but for use in creating or reinforcing building foundations and supports for other structures, preventing subterranean water movement, and repairing or preventing damage to or leaks from underground electrical power, telephone, television and fiber-optics cables, pipelines for natural gas and oil, water mains and lines, and septic and storm sewer drains.

[0051] (15) U.S. Patent No. 6,039,882 by Wolfe, et al. which discloses a method and composition for the remediation of environmental contaminants in soil, sediment, aquifer material, water, or containers in which contaminants were contained, wherein contaminants are reacted with a remediating composition comprising a metal and a sulfur-containing compound to produce environmentally-acceptable, chemically reduced products. The method is useful for treating contaminants such as halogenated hydrocarbons, pesticides, chemical warfare agents and dyes. The remediating composition preferably contains comminuted, commercial grade iron and iron sulfide. The addition of an alcohol to the reactants enhances the rate of the remediation reaction, particularly for contaminants of soils and sediments.

[0052] (16) U.S. Patent No. 6,059,449 by Davis, et al. which discloses a rotatable mixing head assembly attachable to a boom of an excavating machine comprising a torque tube supporting a motor mounted within the torque tube, and a mounting assembly for attaching the rotatable mixing head assembly to the boom of an excavating machine. The device has a rotatable mixing head supported by a drive shaft and driven by the motor. The mixing head supports mixing arms and other implements. The rotating casing of the mixing head defines a cavity. Grease is forced through the cavity and out a seal engaging the casing, thus keeping contaminants from the bearings. A water spray may be provided for suppressing dust. A header is provided for delivering dry or liquid reagents to the mixing site.

[0053] (17) U.S. Patent No. 6,268,206 by Liptak which discloses a composition containing cAMP, cGMP, forskolin, adenylate cyclase or guanylate cyclase and microorganisms to facilitate bioremediation, detoxication and to enhance plant growth in media contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. Methods to make the composition and apply it to the contaminated media in order to facilitate bioremediation and detoxication of such contaminants are also provided.

[0054] (18) U.S. Patent No. 6,337,019 by Razavi-Shirazi which discloses a method of removing contaminates from ground water which places a biological permeable barrier in the path of the ground water flow to contact the contaminated groundwater with encapsulated microorganisms which act to decontaminate the contacted groundwater.

[0055] (19) U.S. Patent No. 6,425,529 by Reinsch, et al. which discloses a device and method for dispensing precise amounts of dry particulate matter, such as agricultural chemicals, directly into a liquid carrier stream, such as a flow of water, and a method of employing such a device to distribute chemicals. The device includes a bin for holding a quantity of particulate matter, a conduit for transporting a stream of liquid carrier, and a meter at the bottom of the bin for controllably releasing a desired amount of the particulate matter from the bin into the conduit while disallowing entry of the liquid carrier to the bin. The bin, conduit and meter are all mounted upon a portable structure for transportation with particulate matter in the bin. The meter includes a multi-vaned rotor turned by a controlled motor, and defines discrete pockets of known volume. The operator simply connects the device to a flow of water and keys into the controller an amount of material to be released. The rotor releases the material into a chamber under vacuum pressure generated by a venturi, through a check valve, and into an eductor. Agricultural chemicals may be advantageously distributed to end users in particulate form, to be mixed with a liquid carrier at the work site, without possibly harmful exposure to chemical dust and fumes.

[0056] (20) U.S. Patent No. 6,596,190 by Igawa, et al. which discloses a method for the remediation of contaminated soil directly and effectively removes the contaminants such as organic halides from the contaminated soil, using remediation agents for soil. In more detail, the agents include a slurry of fine iron particles in which the fine iron particles having an average particle size of less than 10 μιη are dispersed in water; and an aqueous suspended liquid that contains fine iron particles having an average particle size of less 1 to 200 μιη and a hydrophilic binder; and these agents are employable for the method for the remediation of contaminated soil.

[0057] (21) U.S. Patent No. 6,787,034 by Noland, et al. which discloses a supported catalyst for in situ remediation of soil and/or groundwater contaminated with a halogenated hydrocarbon comprising an adsorbent impregnated with zero valent iron, wherein the adsorbent is capable of adsorbing the halogenated hydrocarbon. This invention further provides a bioremediation composition for in situ bioremediation of soil and/or groundwater contaminated with

hydrocarbons, comprising an adsorbent capable of adsorbing said hydrocarbons, a mixture of facultative anaerobes capable of metabolizing said hydrocarbons under sulfate-reduction conditions, a sulfate-containing compound that releases sulfate over a period of time, and a nutrient system for promoting growth of said anaerobes, wherein said nutrient system includes a sulfide scavenging agent.

[0058] (22) U.S. Patent No. 6,994,792 by Schlegel which discloses mixtures of various adsorption materials, whose adsorption properties supplement one another in the mixture.

[0059] (23) U.S. Patent No. 7,160,471 by Looney, et al. which discloses a method for remediation of contaminants in soil and groundwater. The method generates oxygen releasing solids in groundwater or soil by injecting an aqueous energetic oxidant solution containing free radicals, oxidative conditions can be created within or ahead of a contaminant plume. Some contaminants may be remediated directly by reaction with the free radicals. Additionally and more importantly, the free radicals create an oxidative condition whereby native or injected materials, especially metals, are converted to peroxides. These peroxides provide a long-term oxygen reservoir, releasing oxygen relatively slowly over time. The oxygen can enhance microbial metabolism to remediate contaminants and can react with contaminant metals either to form immobile precipitants or to mobilize other metals to permit remediation through leaching techniques. Various injection strategies for injecting the energetic oxidant solution are also disclosed.

[0060] (24) U.S. Patent No. 7,347,647 by Seech, et al. which discloses compositions including a compressed mixture of fibrous organic materials and multi-valent metals used to remove organic chemical contaminants. The compositions are made into a pre-shaped, compressed form used to form a permeable reactive barrier for decontamination of soils, sediments, sludges, and waters containing environmental pollutants. The compressed mixture, comprising the fibrous organic particles and one or more multivalent metallic particles, is formed into reactive pellets, granules, and other pre-shaped structures for use in constructing a reactive barrier, typically for use in a contaminated environment or in an industrial process. By way of example, the pre- shaped structure may be used to construct a reactive barrier to remove halogenated organic chemical contaminants, nitroaromatic organic contaminants, or certain inorganic contaminants from various terrestrial and aquatic based ecosystems.

[0061] (25) U.S. Patent No. 7,431,849 by Swearingen, et al. which discloses an encapsulated reactant(s) having at least one encapsulant and at least one reactant. An outermost encapsulant is substantially nonreacting, impermeable and nondissolving with water. The reactant(s) contributes to at least one reaction with contaminants in environmental media rendering the environmental media less harmful. Processes for using the encapsulated reactant in

environmental media is also hereby claimed.

[0062] (26) U.S. Patent No. 7,585,132 by Imbrie which discloses a method of amending an aquifer having at least one contaminant comprising the steps of: mixing a sorbent material with a carrier to form a slurry, the sorbent material having one dimension of at least 1 micron; and introducing the slurry into the aquifer in a dispersed fashion within a pore space of the aquifer to promote permanent attenuation of the aquifer.

[0063] (27) U.S. Patent No. 7,635,218 by Lott which discloses a method for dust-free low pressure mixing for conveying and mixing secondary dry and secondary liquid components into a primary liquid component with a hermetically sealed system, the method comprising: using a cyclone separator to capture dust from a surge tank and form a recovered product, using a flow promoter to prevent bridging an rat-holing, pressurizing an eductor to draw dry components into a mixing chamber, fluidizing the dry component, and expelling the fluidized dry component. [0064] (28) U.S. Patent No. 7,794,133 by Kern, et al. which discloses mixing devices and processes that make it possible to mix flowable finely divided solid particles with liquids (and/or slurries of solids in liquids) contained in an open top container outdoors under windy conditions, with reduced or eliminated dusting from entrainment of the flowable finely divided solids by the wind, utilize a mixing device with a dust-tight housing open at its bottom and partially immersed below the surface of the liquid, an inlet port on the housing for the finely divided solids, an outlet port on the housing for escape of air displaced by liquids flowing through an opening into the immersed portion of the housing, and, inside the housing, a driven impeller that causes the actual mixing.

[0065] (29) U.S. Patent No. 7,963,720 by Hoag, et al. which discloses methods of decreasing the amount of one or more contaminants in contaminated soil by introducing polymer-coated nanoparticles into the contaminated soil, optionally with other reagents. The polymer-coated nanoparticles exhibit an enhanced ability to migrate through the soil and provide greater control of the rate of activation of other chemicals, such as oxidants, in the contaminated soil.

[0066] (30) U.S. Patent No. 7,976,241 by Hoag, et al. which discloses a method for in-situ reduction of contaminants in soil.

[0067] (31) U.S. Patent No. 8,097,559 by Noland, et al. which discloses a supported reactant for in situ remediation of soil and/or groundwater contaminated with a halogenated hydrocarbon consisting essentially of an adsorbent impregnated with zero valent iron, wherein the adsorbent is capable of adsorbing the halogenated hydrocarbon. In one embodiment, the adsorbent is activated carbon.

[0068] (32) U.S. Patent Appl. Publ. No. 2004/0165956 by Greenberg which discloses a method of treating contaminants in soil and/or groundwater including adding a source of a peroxide and ozone to the in situ environment in amounts capable of producing reactive species sufficient to oxidize at least one of the contaminants without acidification of the environment.

[0069] (33) U.S. Patent Appl. Publ. No. 2008/0112761 by Sale, et al. which discloses a process for treating contaminants present in subsurface source zones including in situ admixing of contaminated media, chemical oxidants and stabilizing agents using known soil-mixing techniques. A grout for treating contaminants present in soil comprises chemical oxidants and stabilizing agents.

[0070] One embodiment is directed towards a system for remediating a subsurface region. The system includes a mixing tank, an outlet, a first inlet in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive a sorbent and a second inlet in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive one or more of a gas, a liquid, and other additives. The mixing tank includes an agitator configured to create a mixture of the sorbent and the one or more of the gas, liquid and other additive within the mixing tank. An emission mitigation system is in communication with the mixing tank and configured to reduce dust emissions. In addition, the mixing tank includes a ventilation port.

[0071] The system also includes a sorbent container and a sorbent pump in communication with the first input. The emission system includes one or more nozzles in communication with a liquid source, e.g., water, and/or a mixture of the mixing tank. In a preferred embodiment, at least four nozzles are arranged in a square pattern above the mixing tank. In a more preferred embodiment, the nozzles include at least four sprinklers that are arranged in a diamond pattern above the mixing tank.

[0072] In one embodiment, the ventilation port includes a tubular section having a first end coupled to the mixing tank and a second end vented to atmosphere. Optionally, in-line filters may be arranged between the mixing tank and the atmosphere of the tubular section. In another embodiment, the system includes a ventilation recycle port in communication with a mixing tank and a ventilation recycle input port in communication with an aqueous storage tank. Optionally, a second dust mitigation system is configured to reduce dust particulates received from the ventilation recycle input port.

[0073] In one embodiment, the dust mitigation system is arranged in a dust mitigation unit box outside the mixing tank. In a preferred embodiment, the dust mitigation unit box is coupled directly to the first input port. In a more preferred embodiment, the dust mitigation system is arranged inside a portion of the mixing tank.

[0074] In one embodiment, the system includes a scale configured to receive a sorbent material container to provide a dynamic weight of dry powder during, before and after operation of the system.

[0075] In one embodiment, a method of using a diaphragm pump as part of a remediation system includes applying the sorbent material, in this embodiment the sorbent material is a dry powder, to a mixing tank with the diaphragm pump and applying an aqueous solution to the mixing tank.

[0076] In another embodiment, the system includes a controller having a processor configured to receive an input from the scale, diaphragm pump, agitator, outlet, first inlet, second inlet, and outlet pump to control concentration of the sorbent in the mixture of the mixing tank. In a preferred embodiment, the mixture comprises a sorbent to liquid ratio, as measured by weight, ranging from about 3% to about 40%. The ratio is adjusted to be higher when the contaminant concentration is higher. [0077] In one embodiment, a method of using an emission mitigation system as part of a remediation system including applying a sorbent including a dry powder to a mixing tank and operating the emission mitigation system to reduce dust emissions in the applying step.

[0078] In one embodiment, a method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated includes introducing into the subsurface region a mixture having a sorbent and a liquid. The sorbent consists essentially of activated carbon and no other ingredients that materially affect the properties of the activated carbon.

[0079] In another embodiment, a method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated includes introducing into the subsurface region a mixture having a sorbent and a liquid. The sorbent consists of activated carbon and no other ingredients.

[0080] In still another embodiment, a method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated includes introducing into the subsurface region a mixture having a sorbent and a liquid. The sorbent includes at least activated carbon and does not include anaerobes, impregnated material into pores of the sorbent, or nutrients for the anaerobes.

[0081] In yet still another embodiment, the method of using a system for in situ remediation of a subsurface that has been contaminated includes applying a sorbent to a mixing tank with a diaphragm pump, operating an emissions mitigation system with at least one nozzle to reduce dust emissions in the applying sorbent step, mixing the sorbent and a liquid in a mixing tank, and injecting the mixture into the subsurface region that has been contaminated.

[0082] In still another embodiment, a method for protection of a non-contaminated subsurface region having a probability of becoming contaminated with a contaminant. The method including introducing into the non-contaminated subsurface region an injectate including at least a sorbent and liquid. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent includes activated carbon and the injected injectate is configured to provide a protective barrier to minimize or substantially prevent migration of future contaminants through the protective barrier to a receptor.

[0083] The receptor may include any predetermined region or location that one wishes to protect. For example, the receptor may include ground water, ground water well reservoir, utility corridors, stream, lake, ocean, subsurface structure, a surface structure and combinations of the same and the like.

[0084] The sorbent material is a material operable to absorb or adsorb liquids or gases including contaminants. The sorbent may include sorbent materials with reference to U.S. Patent Nos. 7,585,132 and 8,097,559, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent includes activated carbon characterized with a high surface area, typically in a range from about 100 m²/g to about 5,000 m²/g or higher. The activated carbon has a highly porous structure and the ability to absorb, adsorb, accumulate and/or concentrate large quantities of organic molecules and inorganic molecules, and/or act as a catalyst in oxidizing or other reactions, or a support for catalysts such as precious metals catalysts. The sorbent material may be coated with a thermoplastic and pigment as described herein.

[0085] Other sorbents may include clay flour, fired clay, zeolite, activated alumina, bentonites, thixotropic bentonites, gas concrete dust, silica gel, polymeric adsorbents, perlites, expanded clay, sandy limestone flour, trass flour, limestone flour, trass lime, bleaching earth, cement, carbonaceous sorbents, synthetic sorbents and combinations of the same.

[0086] In one embodiment, the system may also include a sorbent, preferably in the sorbent container and a dry powder pump in communication with the first input port. The dry powder pump includes a diaphragm pump configured to transport dry powder. In one embodiment the dry powder pump is an Ingersoll Rand ARO PP20A-ASS-AAA 2" Dry Powder Diaphragm Pump. In another embodiment the dry powder pump is a Yamada Air-Operated Double

Diaphragm NDP-50BAH-BH3 Dry Powder Diaphragm Pump. Alternatively, an auger system may be utilized to transport the dry powder. In another embodiment, a powder conveyance system may be utilized as described with reference to U.S. Patent Nos. 7,530,768 and 4,990,070, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0087] Other additives may also be used in combination with the sorbent, such as

bioremediation additives added to the mixing tank or injected separately. For example, the other additives may include a mixture of two or more species of facultative anaerobes capable of metabolizing said hydrocarbons under sulfate-reduction conditions as described with reference to U.S. Patent No. 6,787,034, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Other bioremediation additives are described with reference to U.S. Patent Nos. 5,427,944; and 5,403,809, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Moreover, the sorbent may be coated with a pigment to provide visual contrast for soil core samples and other purposes. The pigment may include any color including fluorescent colors. In one embodiment, the pigment is part of a thermoplastic coating as disclosed with reference to U.S. Patent No. 3,736,655, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In addition, other additives including chemical oxidants and stabilizing agents as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0112761, which is hereby incorporated by reference may be utilized. Moreover, energetic oxidizing free radicals may be utilized as an additive to enhance precipitation and an immobilization of certain metals as described with reference to U.S. Patent No. 7,160,471, which is hereby incorporated by reference. [0088] In addition, other additives may include zero-valent iron (ZVI) in the form of iron fillings or powders for the reduction of halogenated organic contaminants such carbon tetrachloride (CT, CCL4), chloroform (CF, CHC13), trichloroethene (TCE, C2HC13), and tetrachloroethene (PCE, C2C14).

[0089] Moreover, other additives may include clay flour, fired clay, bentonites, thixotropic bentonites, gas concrete dust, perlites, expanded clay, sandy limestone flour, trass flour, limestone flour, trass lime, bleaching earth, cement, calcium aluminate, sodium aluminate, calcium sulphide, organic sulphides, calcium sulphite, calcium sulphate, water, carbonaceous sorbents, water glass, setting accelerators, setting retardants and combinations of the same.

[0090] In addition, the additives may include microorganisms configured to biodegrade a contaminant. In one embodiment, the microorganism is immobilized on a carrier medium including polyvinyl alcohol as taught in U.S. Patent No. 6,337,019, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Other additives may include bacteria, microorganisms, mixtures, organic compounds and in-organic compounds as disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,833,855; 5,733,067; 5,427,944; 5,403,809; and 7,347,647, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0091] A liquid, gas or combination of the same may also be used with the sorbent and/or other additives to form the mixture that will be utilized in the mixture configured to remediate a subsurface region or prevent contamination. In one embodiment, the mixture may be called the injectate, slurry, mixture, or other term. The liquid or gas may include one of water, air, nitrogen, gases, aerosols, or other ingredients such as coagulants, polymers, polyelectrolytes, hydrogen release compounds and substances. Moreover, the liquid, gas, or other additives may include those disclosed with reference to U.S. Patent Nos. 7,585,132 and 8,097,559, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In a preferred embodiment, the liquid is water.

[0092] Reference will now be made in detail to an embodiment of the present invention, example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0093] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram depicting a system for remediating a contaminated site according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 1, the system is generally depicted as reference number 100. The system 100 includes a sorbent pump 102, e.g., diaphragm pump, having an input 104 and an output 106. The input 104 is coupled to a sorbent container 108. The pump 102 is used to move sorbent from sorbent container 108 via input 104 through output 106 to a mixing tank 110. The mixing tank 110 includes an emission mitigation system 112 and mixer 118. The emission mitigation system 112 may be integral with the mixing tank 110, external to the mixing tank 110 or partially integral and external to the mixing tank 110. [0095] In use, once the sorbent enters mixing tank 110, dust is created. In exemplary system 100, the dust is controlled by the emission mitigation system 112 in combination with a ventilation system 114. A liquid stored in tank 116 is added to the mixing tank 110. In one embodiment of the invention, the liquid includes an aqueous solution. As the sorbent and liquid are added to the mixing tank 110, the mixture is blended using a mixer 118 to create an injectate, e.g., slurry. Once the slurry is mixed, a pump 122 pulls the slurry from the mixing tank 110 and outputs the slurry to a desired location, such as into the subsurface 120. There may be additional inputs into the mixing tank 110. In one embodiment, a gas and/or other additives are input into the mixing tank 110. The system 100 can be sized to fit within a trailer having a dimension in a range from about 6 ft. wide by 16 ft. long to 8 1/2 ft. wide by 24 ft. long or smaller or larger. The system can be configured to be portable/mobile on the trailer.

[0096] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary system to transfer a sorbent from a sorbent container 108 through a suction probe 204 using a sorbent pump 102 generally depicted as reference 200. In this embodiment, the sorbent container 108 includes a woven, flexible polypropylene container. The woven, flexible polypropylene container typically holds about 1,000 pounds to about 2,000 pounds of sorbent. In another embodiment, the sorbent container 108 includes a strong, durable paper possibly lined with plastic or other suitable material, e.g., metal, alloy, plastic, thermoplastic, and/or combinations of the same and the like. The paper container typically holds about 50 pounds or more of sorbent, e.g., dry powder. In another embodiment, the sorbent container 108 includes a bulk container truck. In yet another embodiment, the sorbent container 108 includes a conical shaped container in which the sorbent is placed into the container and the pump 102 is connected to the bottom of the conical shaped container.

[0097] FIG. 2B illustrates a suction probe 204 which is connected to a flexible hose used as the input to the sorbent pump 102. Referring to FIG. 2B, the suction probe 204 is connected to the flexible hose using hose connection 208. An exemplary suction probe 204 includes a 2 inch diameter steel pipe. The diameter of the suction probe may be from about 1 inch to about 3 inches or lessor or greater. In another embodiment, the suction probe 204 is constructed of aluminum or any other suitable material, e.g., metal, alloy, plastic, thermoplastic and

combinations of the same.

[0098] An anti-dead-head device 206 is arranged at end portion of the suction probe 204. The anti-dead-head device 206 is configured to prevent the open cylindrical portion of the suction probe 204 from contacting the dry powder container 108 and clogging or preventing dry powder from being sucked through the suction probe 204. In one embodiment of the invention, the anti- dead-head device 206 includes several curved sections extending past an end portion of the suction probe 204.

[0099] In this embodiment, 1/8 inch diameter curved steel sections are connected to the end of the suction probe 204 wherein the convex side of the curved steel is placed opposite the end of the suction probe 204, creating a void between the end of the suction probe 204 and the concave side of the curved steel. In another embodiment, the anti-dead-head device 206 includes a coarse-meshed screen to cover the opening. The coarse-meshed screen may be formed into the shape of a half-sphere. The convex side of the half-sphere screen is placed opposite the end of the suction probe 204, creating a void between the end of the suction probe 204 and the concave side of the half-sphere screen.

[00100] In another embodiment, the anti-dead head device 206 may be covered partially or completely with a coarse-meshed screen configured to prevent or substantially minimize unwanted material from entering the system. The coarse-meshed screen may include openings in the range from 100 mesh up to about a quarter inch or greater.

[00101] FIG. 3A illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 3A, an emission mitigation system is generally depicted with reference to 300. The emission mitigation system 300 includes an exemplary arrangement of nozzles 302 over a portion of the mixing tank 110. The nozzles 302 are configured to provide a spray or mist of liquid, thereby providing an increase surface area of the liquid through the nozzle. In one embodiment, the nozzles are sprinklers. In a preferred embodiment, the sprinklers are PNR America Part Number EBW1550B3SN: Full Cone, Spiral, SS 316, 120o, ¼", Male, 1.4 gpm @ 40 psi nozzles. However, the nozzles may include any type of water jet, atomizer or spraying device.

[00102] In this embodiment, the system 300 is arranged in an upper portion or lid on the mixing tank 110 and the nozzles 302 are arranged in a circular pattern or pentagon pattern. It is noted that any geometric pattern may be used in the arrangement of nozzles. In a preferred

embodiment, the nozzles 302 are arranged to provide a substantially uniform spray of liquid over the entire surface area of the top portion of the mixing tank.

[00103] In use, sorbent is pumped from the dry powder container 108 through the pump 102 through output 106 and into the mixing tank 110. As the sorbent is pumped into the mixing tank 110, liquid, e.g., water, is pumped through the nozzles 302, suppressing the emission created from the sorbent. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent is a dry powder and the emission is primarily dust emission and in operation the dust is attached or entrained to the water particles, thereby dropping into the mixing tank 110. [00104] In one embodiment of the invention, the mixing tank 110 is vented to the atmosphere through a vent 304. The vent 304 includes an open cylindrical pipe where one end of the cylinder is attached to the top or upper portion of the mixing tank 110 and the other end of the cylinder extends vertically above the mixing tank a distance of eight feet or greater and is open to the atmosphere.

[00105] In one embodiment of the invention, the open cylindrical pipe is constructed of a PVC pipe, however, any other suitable material may also be used, e.g., metal, alloy, plastic, thermoplastic and/or combinations of the same. Venting of the mixing tank 110 is necessary to prevent pressure from increasing in the mixing tank 110 as the dry powder and water are added to the tank, displacing volume in the tank. The vent may include one or more in-line filters configured to prevent or minimize emissions. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the vent 304 is connected to an in line filter, e.g., a Solberg Spin Meister Extreme Duty Filter, Model No. ST-SML345-400C.

[00106] FIG. 3B illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00107] Referring to FIG. 3B, the emission mitigation system 300 includes sprinklers 302 placed into a lid or an upper portion of the mixing tank 110 in a square pattern. Again other geometric arrangements of nozzles 302 can be used in the current invention. In this embodiment, the spray is configured to cover a region just around the output 106.

[00108] FIG. 3C illustrates a dust mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00109] Referring to FIG. 3C, the emission mitigation system 300 includes a mixing head 306. The mixing head 306 includes a region having a larger diameter than the output pipe 106 and is placed in-line with output 106. The mixing head may be of any geometry. In this embodiment, one or more nozzles 302 are placed in a circular arrangement around the circumference of the cylindrical pipe. As the sorbent is pumped through the mixing head 306, water is pumped through the nozzles 302, thereby suppressing dust created from the dry powder. The mixing tank 110 is also vented to the atmosphere through the vent 304. Again not shown other in line filters may be utilized in the vent to provide increased emission control. Moreover, the vent 306 may also include a mixing head 306 as a filter.

[00110] FIG. 4 illustrates an emission mitigation system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00111] Referring to FIG. 4, the emission mitigation system is generally depicted with reference to number 400. The emission mitigation system 400 includes a first internal mitigation system and a secondary external emission mitigation system or optionally only a secondary emission mitigation system. In this embodiment, a vent 304 from the mixing tank 110 leads to a separate external suppression tank 402. Vent 304 enters the lid of the suppression tank 402. In one embodiment, additional nozzles 404 are placed into the lid or upper region of the suppression tank 402. In a preferred embodiment, the nozzles 404 are configured to provide a uniform distribution of liquid.

[00112] Optionally, liquid inside suppression tank 402 may be recycled by pump 408 through nozzles 404 or to additional recycle nozzles (not shown) back into tank 402. The suppression tank 402 is vented to atmosphere through dust suppression vent 406 and optionally may also include a mixing head 306 as a filter.

[00113] FIG. 5 A illustrates a system to control emissions using a spray arrangement in which the mixed slurry is recirculated into the mixing tank according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00114] Referring to FIG. 5 A, the system is generally depicted as reference number 500. The system 500 includes a mixing tank 110 including one or more a nozzles 502 configured to spray the mixture pumped from mixing tank 110 back into mixing tank 110 via pump 122. At least one of the nozzles 502 is located adjacent to output 106, thereby also suppressing dust created from the sorbent. A vent 304 is vented to the atmosphere as described herein. Again, the vent 304 may include in line filters. Moreover, the system may include other nozzles (FIG. 5B) not supplied from the mixing tank, but supplied with liquid from another source.

[00115] FIG. 5B illustrates a system to control emissions using a spray arrangement in which the mixed slurry is recirculated into the mixing tank in combination with a separate arrangement of water sprinklers in the mixing tank with a ventilation stack according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00116] Features of FIG. 5B are described with reference to FIG. 5A. In use, as the sorbent is pumped into the mixing tank 110, water is pumped through the nozzles 302 while at the same time slurry 120 is pumped from mixing tank 110 back into mixing tank 110 through a nozzles 502 located adjacent to output 106, thereby suppressing the dust created from the sorbent as a result of the particles of dust attaching themselves to the water particles, slurry and entrainment of dust.

[00117] FIG. 6A illustrates a system to accurately weigh the amount of sorbent transferred using a scale according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00118] Referring to FIG. 6A, a system to accurately weigh the amount of sorbent is generally depicted as reference number 600. The system 600 includes a sorbent container 108, a scale 602, a digital scale readout 604 and a controller 606. In use, the sorbent container 108 is placed on a weight scale 602. Weight scale 602 is connected to a digital scale readout 604 which provides a readout of the weight of the sorbent on weight scale 602 at any given time, e.g., before use, during use, and/or after use of the remediation system. As the sorbent is removed from the sorbent container 108 by pump 102, the weight reflected on the digital scale readout 604 is reduced, providing an accurate measurement of the amount of dry powder removed from dry powder container 108. A controller 606 is electrically connected to the scale 602 and optionally to the readout 604 and to the pump 122 and pump 102. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, the mixing tank includes a plurality of sensors in which the controller is also electrically connected. The sensors are configured to determine temperature, volume, weight, agitation speed, concentration and other parameters as known in the art.

[00119] The controller 606 is configured to receive an input from one or more of the sensors and the scale and control the sorbent pump to provide a predetermined ratio of the sorbent and the one or more of liquid, gas, and other additives to the mixing tank.

[00120] In another embodiment, the scale 602 includes a floor scale using a strain gauge based load cells in which the force applied to the load cells deforms the cells, converting the deformation to electric signals. The digital scale readout 604 converts the electric signals to a readout showing a relative weight. Other types of scales and readouts may also be used as known in the art.

[00121] FIG. 6B illustrates a system to accurately weigh the amount of sorbent transferred using a load cell suspending the dry powder container according to another embodiment of the invention.

[00122] Referring to FIG. 6B, the system includes a sorbent container 108, a load cell 607, a digital scale readout 604, a pump 107, a controller 606 and mixing tank 110. Generally, the controller 606 is described herein. One side of the load cell 607 is firmly attached to a stationary connection point 608 and the other side of the load cell 607 is connected to the sorbent container 108.

[00123] In use, as sorbent is removed from the sorbent container 108 by pump 102, the weight reflected on the digital scale readout 604 is reduced, providing an accurate measurement of the amount of dry powder removed from dry powder container 108.

[00124] In another embodiment of the invention, the weight scale includes a plate scale utilizing calibrated springs which, when deformed, provide a relative weight readout on a rotating clock gauge which can be read by the operator to determine the weight of dry powder on the scale at any given time. [00125] FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram depicting a system for remediating a contaminated site according to an embodiment of the invention.

[00126] Referring to FIG. 7, the system for remediating is generally depicted as reference 700. The system 700 includes a sorbent container 702 holding sorbent 704. The sorbent container is arranged on a scale 706. The scale 706 is connected to digital scale readout 708. A controller 710 is connected to the scale 706 and digital readout 708. A suction probe 712 includes a hose connection 714 and anti-dead- head device 716. The suction probe 712 is arranged into the sorbent container 702 to retrieve sorbent 704. A flexible hose 718 is connected at one end to hose connection 714 and at a pump 720 at the other end.

[00127] In one embodiment, the pump 720 utilizes an air-driven double-diaphragm pump. In a preferred embodiment, the pump would include an Ingersoll Rand ARO PP20A-ASS-AAA 2" Dry Powder Diaphragm Pump. It is noted that other pumps or systems may be utilized, e.g., an auger.

[00128] In another embodiment, the pump 720 utilizes an auger powder transfer system wherein the powder is moved through a hollow cylinder by a rotating auger.

[00129] In another embodiment, the sorbent container 702 is suspended above a mixing tank 722 and the sorbent 704 is gravity fed directly into mixing tank 722.

[00130] As illustrated in FIG. 7, an output 724 is connected to the mixing tank 722 via a mixing tank lid 726. It is noted that the output may be connected through a side port (not shown) of the mixing tank 722 near an upper portion of the mixing tank 722. A dust mitigation system including nozzles 728 are positioned inside mixing tank 722. A ventilation pipe 730 vents to an emission suppression tank 732.

[00131] In the exemplary system shown in FIG. 7, an additive opening 734 is a cylindrical pipe that penetrates the mixing tank lid 726 and is used to introduce additives to the mixing tank 722 during or not during mixing. The additive opening 734 may instead be a flap configured to open and close to permit access to the mixing tank 722.

[00132] A mixer includes an electric motor 736 connected to a shaft 738 connected to impellers 740. The shaft 738 penetrates mixing tank lid 726. When the electric motor 736 is energized, the shaft 738 spins impellers 740 creating a current inside the mixing tank 722, thereby creating a mixture 742, e.g., slurry or injectate.

[00133] In another embodiment, the mixer includes a paddle mixer (not shown) in which a series of paddles are connected to an electric motor 736 instead of impellers 740. In yet another embodiment, the sorbent and liquid are mixed by rotating tank 722 while a stationary impeller (not shown) creates a current inside the tank 722. In still another embodiment, compressed air or gas is released into the mixing tank 722 creating turbulent conditions thereby making a mixture 742.

[00134] In one embodiment, a float 744 is located inside the mixing tank 722 and is connected to a level indicator 746 which is adjacent to a linear measuring scale 748 on the outside of mixing tank 722. As sorbent 704 and liquid 750 are added to mixing tank 722 a level indicator 746 rises in tandem with float 744. A measuring scale 748 is marked such that each mark indicates a specific volume inside mixing tank 722 relative to level indicator 746. That way, for any given volume of mixture 742 inside the mixing tank 722 the total volume of the mixture 742 may be measured. Optionally, electronic sensors including volume sensors, temperature sensors, concentration sensors, flow rate sensors, pH sensors, and other sensors may be arranged in the tank 722 and electrically coupled to the controller 710. The data from these sensors may be utilized to control various operating conditions of the system, e.g., control the concentration or ratio of sorbent to liquid, injection rate, temperature of mixture, mixing rate and other conditions. In one embodiment the controller 710 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) configured to control operation of the system and/or operating conditions specified herein.

[00135] In one embodiment, the liquid 750 includes water. The liquid 750 is stored in a storage tank 732 that may also be used as an emission suppression tank. The liquid 750 is introduced into the storage tank 732 by introducing the liquid to an inlet line 752. The inlet line 752 is connected to a filter 754, e.g., particulate filter, to remove particulates in the liquid 750 prior to introducing said liquid 750 into the storage tank 732.

[00136] In one embodiment, the liquid 750 is pumped by pump 756 to nozzles 758 and back into the storage tank 732. Emissions, e.g., dust, exhausting from the mixing tank 722 is ventilated through vent stack 730 and enters the top of the storage tank 732. As emissions enter the storage tank 732 liquid spraying from nozzles 758 suppress the emissions. The storage tank 732 includes a vent stack 733 to vent to atmosphere, optionally, an in-line filter or filters may be used in the vent stack 733.

[00137] In one embodiment, a drain 760 is attached to the bottom of the storage tank 732 to allow the liquid 750 contained in the storage tank 732 to be drained. A valve 762 is located within the drain 760. The valve 762 is kept closed when the liquid 750 is intended to be stored in the storage tank 732 and opened when the liquid 750 is to be drained from the storage tank 732.

[00138] In one embodiment, the liquid 750 stored in the storage tank 732 is pumped from the storage tank 732 using pump 764. A valve 766 located between the storage tank 732 and pump 764 to allow pump 764 to be isolated for removal or repair. The liquid 750 is pumped from storage tank 732 through pump 764 and into a pipe 768. Pipe 768 penetrates the mixing tank lid 726 and is connected to nozzles 728, thereby providing emission suppression, e.g., dust suppression, inside the mixing tank 722. A valve 770 is provided in pipe 768 to isolate the pump 764 from the nozzles 728.

[00139] In one embodiment, the pipe 768 includes a two inch PVC pipe. Other pipe sizes and compositions can be used depending on the anticipated liquid characteristics including flow rates, pH, viscosity and the like.

[00140] In one embodiment, a pipe 772 is connected to pipe 768 on one end and to the mixing tank 722 on the other end. This allows mixing tank 722 to be filled with a liquid 750 at a faster rate than when pumping liquid 750 through nozzles 728. A valve 774 is placed between the pipe 768 and the mixing tank 722 to isolate pipe 772 when using nozzles 728. In one embodiment, a deflector plate 776 is positioned inside mixing tank 722 immediately after pipe 772 enters mixing tank 722. This deflects liquid 750 as it enters the mixing tank 722 which helps to create turbulence of the mixture 742, thereby assisting in agitating and mixing the mixture 742.

[00141] As illustrated in FIG. 7, a valve 778 is located between the pump 780 and mixing tank 722 on pipe 782. This allows pump 780 to be isolated from the mixing tank 722 for removal or repair of the pump 780. In one embodiment, an additional pipe 784 is connected to pipe 768 on one end and pipe 782 on the other end. Valve 786 is located on pipe 784 between pipe 768 and pipe 782. Pipe 784 allows liquid 750 to be pumped through pump 780 by closing valves 770, 774 and 778, opening valves 766 and 786, and energizing pumps 764 and 780. This is used to flush and clean pump 780 using the liquid 750.

[00142] In one embodiment of the invention, the outlet side of pump 780 is connected to a pipe 788, which in turn is connected to pipes 790, 792 and 794. Valve 796 is located in pipe 790 and valve 798 is located in pipe 792. When valve 798 is closed, valve 796 is opened and the pump 780 is energized, mixture, e.g., injectate, 742 flows from the mixing tank 722 through pump 780 and out pipe 790. Pipe 790 carries the mixture 742 to the desired injection location. If valve 796 is closed and valve 798 is opened the mixture 742 flows from mixing tank 722 through pump 780, through pipe 792 and back into the mixing tank 722, thereby recirculating the mixture 742.

[00143] In one embodiment, the pipe 794 is connected to a spring actuated pressure relief valve 703. Pressure relief valve 703 is connected to a pipe 705 which is connected to the pipe 772 and the mixing tank 722. Pressure relief valve 703 allows excess pressure from the pump 780 to be released back into the mixing tank 722 in the event lines 790 or 792 become blocked, clogged or partially clogged for any reason. This prevents damage to pump 780 due to excessive pressure. [00144] FIG. 8 illustrates a diagram of preventatively injecting a sorbent material into a plurality of subsurface regions.

[00145] Referring to FIG. 8, a method for protection of a non-contaminated subsurface region having a probability of becoming contaminated with a contaminant is illustrated. Shown is a surface impoundment 802 including a chemical or other contaminant that can leach or leak to a receptor 800. In this embodiment, the receptor 800 includes a ground water source. The method includes injecting a sorbent and liquid to provide a protective barrier 804 to minimize or substantially prevent migration contaminants from the impoundment 802 through the protective barrier 804 to the receptor 800.

[00146] In another embodiment, an underground storage tank 806 is configured to store one or more contaminants and includes an input/output 808 protected with a protective barrier 810. More specifically, a non-contaminated subsurface between a portion of the storage tank 806 and the receptor 800 or other receptor includes a protective barrier configured to prevent migration of a contaminant in the storage tank should it leak or become damaged. The protective barrier 810 is formed by injecting a sorbent and liquid mixture either prior to placement or after placement of the underground storage tank. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent comprises activated carbon and is injected prior to placement of the underground storage tank to form the barrier 810.

[00147] In yet another embodiment, an above ground storage tank 812 is configured to store one or more contaminants. The non-contaminated subsurface between a portion of the storage tank 812 and a receptor includes a protective barrier 814 configured to prevent migration of a contaminant in the storage tank should it leak or become damaged. The protective barrier 814 is formed by injecting a sorbent and liquid mixture either prior to placement or after placement of the storage tank 812. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent comprises activated carbon and is injected prior to placement of the storage tank.

[00148] In still yet another embodiment, a groundwater well 816 is protected with a sorbent prior to any contamination. The non-contaminated subsurface adjacent to at least a portion of the groundwater well 816 includes a protective barrier 820 including a sorbent. The protective barrier 820 is formed by injecting a sorbent and liquid mixture either prior to placement or after drilling the well. In a preferred embodiment, the sorbent comprises activated carbon.

[00149] In yet still another embodiment, a sorbent may be applied to a contaminated site having a structure/device to be excavated or repaired. In this embodiment, the sorbent is injected into the contaminated region around or partially around the structure/device. The structure/device may include an underground pipeline, storage tank, water line, or other structure that may or may not be the source of contaminant. In one embodiment, the underground structure is a pipeline and the soil around the pipeline is injected with sorbent to adsorb contaminants. Thereby, the sorbent will remediate any contaminants in the subsurface and prevent or minimize exposure of workers and nearby receptors to the contaminants during excavation.

[00150] The inventions and methods described herein can be viewed as a whole, or as a number of separate inventions that can be used independently or mixed and matched as desired. All inventions, steps, processes, devices, and methods described herein can be mixed and matched as desired. All previously described features, functions, or inventions described herein or by reference may be mixed and matched as desired.

[00151] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover all of the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for remediating a subsurface region, comprising:

a mixing tank;

a first input in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive a sorbent;

a second input in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive one or more of a gas, a liquid, and other additives;

an agitator configured to create a mixture of the sorbent and one or more of the gas, liquid and other additives within the mixing tank;

an emission mitigation system in communication with the mixing tank, wherein the emission mitigation system is configured to reduce dust emissions; and

an output port in communication with the mixing tank.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a sorbent container; and

a sorbent pump in communication with the first input.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the sorbent pump comprises a diaphragm pump.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the emission system comprises:

at least one nozzle configured to deliver a liquid; and

a ventilation port.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one nozzle comprises at least four nozzles arranged in a substantially square pattern.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one nozzle comprises at least four sprinklers arranged in a substantially diamond pattern.

7. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one nozzle is arranged in a top portion of the mixing tank.

8. The system of claim 4, wherein the ventilation port comprises a tubular section having a first end coupled to the mixing tank and a second end vented to an atmosphere above a top portion of the mixing tank.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a ventilation recycle outlet in communication with the mixing tank;

a ventilation recycle inlet in communication with an aqueous storage tank; and

a second dust mitigation system configured to reduce emissions received from the ventilation recycle input port.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:

a mixture recycle output port arranged on a lower portion of the mixing tank.

11. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one nozzle is arranged in an emission mitigation unit box outside the mixing tank.

12. The system of claim 4, wherein the at least one nozzle is arranged inside a portion of the mixing tank.

13. The system of claim 2, further comprising a scale.

14. The system of claim 2, further comprising a probe coupled to the sorbent pump.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the probe comprises an anti-dead head section and a mesh coupled to an end portion of the probe.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising an auger coupled to a dry powder container and a first input port.

17. A method of using a diaphragm pump as part of a remediation system, comprising the steps:

applying sorbent to a mixing tank with the diaphragm pump; and

applying one or more of gas, liquid and other additives to the mixing tank.

18. A method of using a dust mitigation system as part of a remediation system, comprising the steps:

applying sorbent to a mixing tank; and operating the emission mitigation system to reduce emissions in the applying step, wherein the emission mitigation system comprises at least one nozzle.

19. A method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated, comprising the steps of:

introducing into the subsurface region a mixture comprising a sorbent and a liquid, wherein the sorbent consists essentially of activated carbon.

20. A method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated, comprising the steps of:

introducing into the subsurface region a mixture comprising a sorbent and a liquid, wherein the sorbent consists of activated carbon.

21. A method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated, comprising the steps of:

introducing into the subsurface region a mixture comprising an injectate comprising a sorbent and a liquid, wherein the injectate comprises activated carbon and does not include anaerobes, impregnated material into pores of the sorbent, or nutrients for the anaerobes.

22. A method of using a system for in situ remediation of a subsurface that has been contaminated, comprising the steps of:

applying sorbent to a mixing tank with a diaphragm pump;

operating an emissions mitigation system to reduce dust emissions in the applying sorbent step, wherein the mitigation system comprises at least one nozzle;

mixing the sorbent and a liquid in a mixing tank; and

injecting the mixture into the subsurface.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the sorbent comprises an adsorbent impregnated with a material consisting essentially of zero valent iron having a purity of at least 99%.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the sorbent comprises:

an adsorbent impregnated with a non-toxic metal; and

a metal hydroxide in an amount sufficient to provide a reactant having a pH greater than 7.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein the sorbent comprises:

an adsorbent comprising activated carbon, wherein the adsorbent comprises iron salt impregnated into pores of the adsorbent.

26. The method of claim 22, further comprising the step of adding other additives to the mixture.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the other additives comprise anaerobes capable of metabolizing hydrocarbons under sulfate-reduction conditions and a nutrient system.

28. The method of claim 22, wherein the subsurface comprises at least one of soil and ground water.

29. A method for protection of a non-contaminated subsurface region having a probability of becoming contaminated with a contaminant, comprising the steps of:

introducing into the non-contaminated subsurface an injectate comprising a sorbent and liquid, wherein the sorbent comprises activated carbon and the injectate is configured to provide a protective barrier to minimize or substantially prevent migration of future contaminants through the protective barrier to a receptor.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the subsurface region comprises a chemical tank.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein the subsurface region comprises a petroleum tank.

32. The method of claim 29, wherein the subsurface region comprises a ground water well.

33. The method of claim 29, wherein the subsurface region comprises a gas line.

34. The method of claim 29, wherein the introducing step comprises the step of:

injecting the mixture to substantially form the protective barrier between a source of the future contaminants and the receptor.

35. The method of claim 29, wherein the receptor comprises one or more of a ground water, a ground water well reservoir, a utility corridor, a stream, a lake, an ocean, a subsurface structure, and a surface structure.

36. A method for in situ remediation of a subsurface region that has been contaminated, comprising the steps of:

introducing into the subsurface region a mixture comprising a sorbent and a liquid, wherein the sorbent comprises activated carbon with a thermoplastic coating.

37. The method as in any of claims 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 29 or 36, wherein the sorbent comprises a pigment coated activated carbon.

38. The method as in any of claims 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 29 or 36, wherein the sorbent comprises a sorbent with a pigment coated thermoplastic coating.

39. The method of any one of claim 36 or 37, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of a red color, yellow color, blue color and combinations of the same.

40. The method of any one of claim 36 or 37, wherein the pigment comprises a fluorescent color.

41. The method as in any of claims 36 or 37, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of a metallic resin, inorganic resin and organic resin.

42. The method as in any of claims 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 29 or 36, further comprising the step of:

injecting air into the subsurface prior to any step of claims 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 29 or 36 to create a fractured region, wherein the injecting is conducted at a pressure in a range from about 5 psi to about 10,000 psi or greater.

43. A method of using activated carbon comprising a thermoplastic resin and a pigment as a composition to improve visibility of the activated carbon when injected into a subsurface region, comprising the steps: introducing into the subsurface region the activated carbon and a liquid, wherein the pigment is visible with a core sample of the subsurface region.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of a red color, yellow color, blue color and combinations of the same.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the pigment comprises a fluorescent color.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the pigment comprises one or more of a metallic resin, inorganic resin and organic resin.

47. A system for remediating a subsurface region, comprising:

a mixing tank;

a first inlet in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive a sorbent;

a sorbent pump in communication with the first inlet configured to pump the sorbent into the mixing tank;

a second inlet in communication with the mixing tank configured to receive one or more of a gas, a liquid, and other additives;

an agitator configured to mix the sorbent and the one or more of the gas, liquid and other additives;

a dust emission mitigation system in communication with the mixing tank comprising a plurality of nozzles and at least one vent, wherein the emission mitigation system is configured to reduce dust emissions; and

an outlet in communication with the mixing tank.

48. The system of claim 47, wherein the sorbent pump comprises a diaphragm pump.

49. The system of claim 47, further comprising a scale configured to provide real time weight of sorbent during operation of the system.

50. The system of claim 1, 49 or 51, further comprising a controller including a processor configured to receive an input from the scale and control the sorbent pump to provide a predetermined ratio of the sorbent and the one or more of liquid, gas, and other additives to the mixing tank.

51. The system of claim 47, wherein the one or more of a gas, a liquid, and other additives comprises water.

The system of claim 47, wherein the sorbent comprises activated carbon.

53. The system of claim 47, wherein the sorbent comprises activated carbon with a thermoplastic coating and a pigment.

The system of claim 47, wherein the sorbent consists of activated carbon.

The system of claim 47, wherein the sorbent consists essentially of activated carbon.