Thermal based remediation technologies for soil and groundwater: a review

Thermal remediation technologies are fast and effective tools for the remediation of contaminated soils and sediments. Nevertheless, the high energy consumption and the effect of high temperature on the soil properties may hinder the wide applications of thermal remediation methods. This review highlights the recent studies focused on thermal remediation. Eight types of thermal remediation processes are discussed, including incineration, thermal desorption, stream enhanced extraction, electrical resistance heating, microwave heating, smoldering, vitrification, and pyrolysis. In addition, the combination of thermal remediation with other remediation technologies is presented. Finally, thermal remediation sustainability is evaluated in terms of energy efficiency and their impact on soil properties. The developments of the past decade show that thermal-based technologies are quite effective in terms of contaminant removal but that these technologies are associated with high energy use and costs and can has an adverse impact on soil properties. Nonetheless, it is anticipated that continued research on thermally based technologies can increase their sustainability and expand their applications. Low temperature thermal desorption is a promising remediation technology in terms of land use and energy cost as it has no adverse effect on soil function after treatment and low temperature is required. Overall, selecting the sustainable remediation technology depends on the contaminant properties, soil properties and predicted risk level.

Automated summary

Thermal remediation technologies are effective tools for remediating contaminated soils and sediments, but their wide application is hindered by high energy consumption and the adverse effects of high temperature on soil properties. This review discusses eight types of thermal remediation processes and their combination with other remediation technologies. The sustainability of thermal remediation is evaluated in terms of energy efficiency and its impact on soil properties. Continued research on thermally based technologies is expected to increase their sustainability and expand their applications. Low temperature thermal desorption is identified as a promising remediation technology with minimal adverse effects on soil function. The selection of a sustainable remediation technology depends on the characteristics of the contaminants, soil properties, and predicted risk level.