Soil Gas Survey

A technique based on inserting a specific probe into the subsurface of a site affected by petroleum hydrocarbons for the geolocation and characterisation, both quantitative and qualitative, of the gases trapped in its Unsaturated Zone.

The aim is to obtain an initial understanding of the site, through the data gathered, as regards the location, physicochemical characteristics and quantity of the contaminants presumed to be present. If necessary, this information will later be supplemented by drilling boreholes or digging trenches in a subsequent phase of subsurface investigation. In many cases, the Soil Gas Survey technique also helps to determine the final location of those boreholes or trenches.

The technique allows in situ measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) using a PID, or even sampling of the gases trapped in the Unsaturated Zone for subsequent laboratory analysis. All of this at a very low cost, as multiple but minimally invasive holes of just 32 mm in diameter are drilled. For gas sampling, SOILUTIONS has a peristaltic pump, which is characterised by working at very low flow rates with any fluid, using either an activated carbon tube or a sampling bag.

SOILUTIONS offers a comprehensive service. It includes delivery of a detailed report within 48 hours of completion, containing all the data obtained, images of the work and an approximate plan showing the location of the points surveyed.

If you need more information or detailed documentation or, simply, have any questions about the technique, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help.