Soil and groundwater investigation at “Liepājas Metalurgs”
Detailed investigation of soil and groundwater contamination on the site of the former “Liepājas Metalurgs” plant in Liepāja
- Year
- 2023
- Scope
- 232 ha
Project structure
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Challenge
More than a century of metallurgical activity on the extensive industrial site has caused complex contamination with oil products and heavy metals, the extent and distribution of which needed to be clarified. Data from previous studies had to be compiled, an additional detailed investigation carried out and the extent and nature of soil and groundwater contamination determined in order to prepare well-founded remediation recommendations and evaluate possible solutions.
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Solution
A detailed environmental site investigation was carried out: site inspection, installation of 39 groundwater monitoring wells, and collection and analysis of more than 100 soil and groundwater samples for TPH, BTEX, heavy metals and radioactivity. Cross-sections, maps and a hydrogeological model were produced, previous data were compiled and an analysis of three remediation alternatives was prepared for further action.
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Result
An area of approximately 232 ha was investigated, the distribution of soil and groundwater contamination was determined and a hydrogeological model was developed. TPH, BTEX, heavy metals and radioactivity were analysed, historical data were compiled and contamination volumes were calculated. An analysis of three remediation alternatives was prepared, with recommendations for the most environmentally friendly solution.
Project facts
- Client
- Liepāja Special Economic Zone
The project involved a comprehensive pre-remediation detailed investigation of an industrial site of approximately 232 ha: the former “Liepājas Metalurgs” site in Liepāja. More than 140 years of industrial activity, including steel melting, rolling, metalworking and the operation of heavy fuel oil facilities, have caused significant soil and groundwater contamination with heavy metals, oil products, BTEX compounds and other chemical contaminants. The aim of the investigation was to determine the nature, extent and area of distribution of the contamination by compiling monitoring data from previous years and carrying out a detailed investigation to obtain an up-to-date picture of the contamination. The work included a site inspection, identification of potential sources of contamination, 15 core boreholes and 24 additional boreholes, the installation of 39 groundwater investigation wells and the collection of more than 100 soil and groundwater samples. The samples were analysed in accredited laboratories for TPH, BTEX, heavy metals, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and background radioactivity. The data obtained were processed into cross-sections, maps, plans and a hydrogeological model showing groundwater flow directions and contaminant migration. A detailed report was prepared with an evaluation of remediation alternatives and a technical and economic justification.
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