University of California

James R Hunt

Kent S Udell

Nicholas Sitar

Lloyd D Stewart, Jr

A method is provided for in situ decontamination of contaminated subsurface area by injection of steam into injection wells and withdrawing liquids and vapors from extraction wells under subatmospheric pressure whereby steam is passed through the contaminated area in an essentially horizontal direction. After a substantial portion of the contamination has been removed in this manner, the injection of steam is ceased, but the extraction at subatmospheric pressure is continued, to volatilize and remove the residual water and contaminants trapped in the pores of the soil. The steam injection may be periodically resumed to reheat the area and to replenish the water in the pores.

Growing community of inventors

Walnut Creek, CA, United States of America

James R Hunt