Soil remediation equipment mechanically separates contaminants from soil using a combination of water or other washing fluids, and physical processes like agitation, scrubbing, and separation. This equipment typically handles various soil types and contaminant categories, including hydrocarbons, heavy metals, pesticides, and more. For example, a system might use a specific surfactant to detach oil from sand particles, then separate the cleaned sand from the wastewater containing the oil.
This technology offers significant advantages in environmental cleanup and resource management. It allows for the treatment and reuse of excavated soil, reducing the need for off-site disposal and the associated costs and environmental impact. Historically, contaminated soil often required removal and landfilling. This approach, however, presents long-term environmental risks and consumes valuable land resources. Mechanical cleaning systems provide a more sustainable solution by enabling the reuse of treated soil in construction projects or for other beneficial purposes.