The influence of porous media heterogeneity on smouldering remediation

Self-sustained Treatment for Active Remediation (STAR) is a thermal remediation technology that uses smouldering, flameless form of combustion, destroying organic contaminants in soil. Injected cold air flowing through the soil to treatment zone supports release sufficient energy maintain self-sustained reaction and propagation contaminated as long airflow local exceeds minimum value. However, distribution magnitude flux vectors can be complex heterogeneous environment common at sites. This research presents first investigation smouldering under varying degrees patterns permeability heterogeneity. Nine experiments examined layers arranged alone contrasting series, parallel, two distinct patterns. The results suggest successfully propagate across layer boundaries series regardless their (at least down 1 x 10−12 m2). fine were not smouldered parallel with ratio ≥ 3:1. Numerical modelling these cases published model revealed this occurred due insufficient some cases, or conductive heat transfer (thermal coupling) between other cases. more heterogeneity underscored importance connected length higher pathway on therefore propagation. Disconnected coarse zones supported both while kept bypassing zones. Overall, provides unique insights into understanding scenarios ensure successful application remediation.