Remediation of a 10 Hectare Paint Factory

Problem

A former ICI Paint facility was required to undergo remediation. Four major sources (as per photograph) were isolated as being the main contributors to the contamination. Extensive chemical analysis did little to develop potential sustainable solutions.

Solution

Stage 1 Samples were collected and analysed both with the biosensors and a detailed chemical approach. This enabled the extent to be delimited. But because organisms similar to the biosensors would achieve the bioremediation laboratory trails were performed to refine and optimise the procedures.

Stage 2 and 3 The laboratory findings were transferred to the field and continual Biosensor monitoring meant that the procedures could be refined. The Biosensor test was rapid, low cost and routine and was fed back to the site management procedure. Risk reduction could be monitored as too could the performance of environmental improvement indicators. Site management could be selective on prioritisation of the clean-up methods and development.

Today The site is being regenerated with new industry taking the place of the traditional ways. Neighbouring residential areas are no longer exposed to the threat of the solvents that blighted the environment. The Biosensor proved an effective cost saving venture and was the tool that drove the remediation strategy.

Return to Case Studies

Download a pdf file containing examples of four case studies

If you do not have the software to view this, a PDF Reader can be downloaded for free directly from Adobe®