Technical novelty

Description
Electrical Resistance Heating (ERH) is an on-site rehabilitation method used to treat contaminated areas, in particular with chlorinated solvents (COHV). Implemented by Colas Environnement, this technique aims to thermally desorb contaminants. This procedure is applied on a former industrial site, where equipment is installed to begin decontamination in an effective and safe manner.

Operation and characteristics
The ERH process relies on the electrical heating of the contaminated area to volatilize and extract volatile organic compounds, such as chlorinated solvents. At the site in question, 91 electrodes were installed to heat and collect the gases. The air and water extracted from the soil are treated via eight activated carbon filters, totaling more than 45 tons of activated carbon.
The system also includes seven containerized units for managing operations. The dimensions and installations respect the environmental standards in force, in particular the emission thresholds for gases and for water.

Apps
The ERH method is applied mainly in the rehabilitation of industrial sites contaminated by organic solvents. It is particularly useful in environments where in situ intervention is necessary to limit environmental and health risks. This treatment is suitable for land where access is limited, allowing effective decontamination without requiring heavy surface infrastructures.