SOIL GAS SURVEYING OF CHLORINATED SOLVENTS IN RELATION TO GROUNDWATER POLLUTION STUDIES

Soil gas surveying is a method gaining in popularity for groundwater chlorinated solvent pollution studies, particularly in the USA. Previously published methods have advocated on-site analysis; this study presents a simple method where samples are transported to a laboratory for analysis, hence minimizing the need for specialized field analytical equipment and trained field personnel. Tests show the method provides reliable results, comparable with those of established on-site analysis methods. The soil gas surveying method has been applied to a contaminated industrial site where it was successful in defining an area of significant chlorinated solvent pollution. Preliminary analyses from investigation boreholes indicate that this area has severe groundwater pollution.