Former dry cleaning sites are often located in densely urbanised areas, where space is limited and redevelopment pressure is high. These sites offer significant opportunities for new uses such as housing or mixed-use developments, but they also come with complex environmental challenges. Historical point-source contamination with chlorinated hydrocarbons requires a precise risk assessment to protect human health and the environment and to enable redevelopment.
Our compact drilling rig and manually portable MIP system allow us to collect high-precision data even in difficult-to-access locations. Ideal for sites where conventional drilling techniques are too cumbersome or restrictive. At this site, we carried out a targeted high-resolution site characterisation (HRSC) using a compact drilling rig combined with a manually portable MIP system. This approach enabled us to gather accurate, continuous data in challenging urban conditions.
What we discovered
This provided detailed insight into the subsurface structure and the behaviour of the contamination an essential basis for sound decisions on risks, remediation and further site development. The results revealed a clear stratification of the soil:
- Elevated concentrations of PCE (perchloroethylene) were found in the less permeable layers;
- In the underlying, more permeable zones, the degradation products TCE and DCE were detected.
This combination tells us a great deal about how the contamination behaves: where it accumulates, where it migrates, and how it can best be addressed.
Why this matters
Around former dry cleaning sites, point-source contamination with chlorinated hydrocarbons is often highly complex. Without detailed measurements, it remains unclear how deep and how far the contamination extends. Thanks to our HRSC approach, we deliver directly interpretable data that enables our clients to:
- assess risks more accurately;
- develop targeted remediation strategies;
- and avoid unnecessary costs by preventing redundant drilling.
Our added value
We combine technical depth with practical feasibility. Compact equipment, flexible set-ups and years of experience allow us to work quickly and efficiently, without compromising data quality.
Curious to find out how our HRSC techniques can accelerate your project?
Get in touch with our specialists, we are happy to think along and develop an approach tailored to your site.