ABSTRACT
Ex situ thermal desorption is defined as “a process that uses either indirect or direct heat exchange to heat organic contaminants to a temperature high enough to volatilize and separate them from a contaminated solid medium” (U.S. EPA, 1991). Ex situ thermal desorption is typically used for the treatment of contaminated soil sediments. Ex situ treatment includes excavation, treatment, and on-site backfill of impacted soil. The contaminants in the off-gas can be either destroyed or captured for off-site disposal by an emission control system.
