Method and apparatus for removing volatile organic compounds from soils

摘要

Volatile compounds such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) which contaminate a soil can be removed--without incineration--by a process which generally involves: (1) introducing the contaminated soil into a vessel, (2) heating the soil to a temperature greater than about 300. degree. F., but less than 600° F., preferably in the presence of an inert gas, (3) drawing a vacuum on the vessel to such a degree as to cause the contaminant to flash to a contaminant vapor and (4) condensing the contaminate vapor to a liquid and (5) disposing of said liquid.