Pioneering experience

Through collaborating Griefswold University, RSK has led several pioneering technology demonstration projects under the EU LIFE programme. Specific projects of interest in terms of new technology development include:

• The installation and operation of the largest permeable reactive barrier (PRB) in Europe to treat VOC using zero valent iron, constructed (Enkoben Germany)
• Using molasses for in situ enhanced reductive dechlorination (ERD) to address VOC and chromium 6+ impact in groundwater below houses (Sint Truiden, Belgium)
• Ex situ chemical oxidation (using potassium permanganate as the oxidant) to address soil VOC. This was applied to accelerate a multi-phase extraction (MPE) remedial programme at a former manufacturing site (Rugby, UK)

Specialist knowledge

Belgium
Working with VITO and the Flemish Research Institute, RSK’s Belgian team has developed expertise in anaerobic degradation (enhanced reductive dechlorination) and the use of specialist amendments to improve degradation of recalcitrant compounds such as Ethylene dichloride (EDC).

UK
RSK’s UK operations have developed specialist expertise in the application of oxidation compounds such as fentons reagent, modified fentons, permanganate and peroxide in various forms. The teams also have practical experience in the application of E-clays for chemical fixation, with specific experience in permitting of the latter technique. In addition, the UK and Netherlands have a great deal of practical experience in the design and deployment of physico-chemical techniques such as VE, DPE and MPE and aerobic degradation techniques.

Netherlands
As above, but also with specialist expertise in thermal desorption and soil washing. The Dutch office is also very strong in the application of optimisation techniques such as addition of electrical heating, telemetry to decrease O&M and alternative air treatment systems running on peat and resins to reduce cost.

Germany
The German office has developed specialist knowledge in the construction and maintenance of permeable reactive barriers (PRBs), with specific expertise in the use of zero valent iron for dechlorination. Its other specialism involves the design and application of surfactants for surface tension lowering in order to improve NAPL recovery.

Non-European links
RSK has strong links with various organisations in the US to keep up-to-date with developments ‘across the pond’.