Ramstech- University of Nevada, Reno

EXCAVATION:

Excavation is the process of removing contaminated material and transporting it for treatment or disposing it. The process on the whole is collectively termed as ‘dig and haul’. Before disposing, pretreatment of the waste is required and at some places where the soil excavation area is not determined, sampling is done to the soil adjacent to the excavation. This is done until all soils close to the excavation is cleaner than the expected level.

Figure 1, contaminated soil excavation http://www.frtr.gov/matrix2/section4/D01-4-29.html

Excavation and off-site disposal is a well proven and readily implementable technology. Excavation is the initial component in all ex situ treatments. The rate of excavation depends on a number of factors, including the number of loaders and trucks operating. The excavation of 18,200 metric tons (20,000 tons) of contaminated soil would typically require about 2 months. Disposal of the contaminated media is dependent upon the availability of adequate containers to transport the hazardous waste to a permitted facility.

Costs:
Cost estimates for excavation and disposal range from $300 to $510 per metric ton ($270 to $460 per ton) depending on the nature of hazardous materials and methods of excavation. These estimates include excavation/removal, transportation, and disposal at a RCRA permitted facility. Additional cost of treatment at disposal facility may also be required. Excavation and off-site disposal is a relatively simple process. The distance from the contaminated site to the nearest disposal facility with the required permits will affect cost.
Limitations: