Case Studies - NJ006 - Pneumatic Fracturing, SVE

Industrial Site - Roseland, New Jersey

Project Summary
An industrial site in Roseland, NJ with a geology consisting of fill clayey and silty sand was contaminated with TCE and DCE. In order to enhance the efficiency of the fill, vapor extraction system that was installed at the site, pneumatic fracturing was applied. The project was completed in July 1991.

Procedure
Pneumatic Fracturing was applied at shallow depths (below 10 feet). Fracturing was conducted at the interface between the fill and the natural sediments. In addition, fracturing was done within 9 feet of an existing building without any damages to the structure.

Outcome
Pneumatic Fracturing proved effective in enhancing the efficiency of the vapor extraction system installed at the site. The average flow increased 5 to 70 times. The maximum fracture radius was 27 feet. The maximum fracture aperture during injection was 1.83 inches. The mass removal rate of VOC increased 25 times. Horizontal propagation was observed spanning from 14 to 27 feet from the injection point.

Within 4 years of the Pneumatic Fracturing application, groundwater concentration levels decreased by 90%. In 1997, the site received a "no further action" decree from the NJDEP

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