C3 Technology

The C3 Technology, developed by GEO, is a combination of compression, cooling, and condensation processes with a proprietary regenerative adsorption technology that efficiently recovers volatile orangic compounds (VOCs) from the off-gas vapor stream of soil vapor extraction (SVE) or dual phase extraction (DPE) systems.

The chemical is recovered as a non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL) that is temporarily containerized in appropriate vessels for recycling or proper disposal. Generally, greater than 99.98% of the VOCs are recovered from the vapor stream. Dependent upon the contaminant and State or local agency, final effluent may be polished with granular activated carbon (GAC).

Process Description

• Soil gas is drawn into the system and delivered to the air compressor by a 5 to 10-horsepower positive displacement blower.
• Entrained liquids from extraction wells are separated at the water knockout tank. Separated liquids are securely drummed and transported off-site or captured with GAC and discharged to the sewer or storm drain in accordance with all local and State regulatory requirements.
• Process air is compressed to approximately 150 pounds per square inch (psi) by the compressor.
• Water vapor is removed from the process stream at the air-to-air heat exchangers as it is cooled to ambient temperature.
• The vapor stream is further cooled to approximately -40°F in the refrigerated heat exchangers, where the chemical constituents are condensed and separated from the vapor stream.
• The vapor stream is then sent to the regenerative adsorber, which removes any fugitive VOCs and directs it back to the inlet stream.

System effluent vapor stream [<10 parts per million by volume(PPMV)] polish utilizing granular activated carbon (GAC) prior to discharge to atmosphere may be required in some regions; there is negligible GAC consumption.

GEO currently manufactures standard units of 200, 300, 500, and 1,000 SCFM flow rate capacity. For larger SCFM requirements, GEO provides custom systems to meet your needs.

Soil Vapor Process Flow

Power Requirements

Range of Recoverable Contaminants

Applicability Based on Highest and Best Use Efficiency

C3 = C3 Technology
GAC = Granular Activated Carbon

C3 Technology vs. Other Technologies