Chlorinated Solvents
Managing ground contamination from chlorinated compounds.
Chlorinated solvent contamination is one of the most technically demanding remediation challenges on brownfield land. Found on former dry cleaning premises, metalworking facilities, and industrial sites, these compounds can penetrate deep below the water table and remain mobile for decades. Getting the investigation and remediation strategy right from the start is critical to protecting programme, budget, and regulatory sign-off.
What are chlorinated solvents?
These compounds include chemicals such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), and dichloroethane (DCA). They are:
Dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs), which sink below the water table
Highly mobile and difficult to detect without specialist investigation
Toxic to human health and tightly regulated by environmental authorities
Common sources on site
Former industrial units or metalworking facilities
Dry cleaning operations
Degreasing pits and storage tanks
Leaking drums or legacy waste burial
Our approach
Managing chlorinated solvent contamination requires careful planning and the right mix of investigation and remediation techniques.
We offer:
Detailed site characterisation using borehole sampling and groundwater monitoring
Hydrogeological modelling to map plume spread
Risk assessments to define impact zones
Remediation strategy design tailored to contaminant type, concentration and depth
On-site delivery using chemical oxidation, pump and treat systems or containment barriers
Our work is aligned with Environment Agency guidance and ensures full regulatory compliance.
When to involve Churngold
Early involvement allows us to carry out intrusive investigations before design decisions are finalised. Contact us if:
You suspect chlorinated solvents from a known past use
You are redeveloping a brownfield site with industrial history
You need to manage environmental liability for planning approval or land sale
Churngold delivers chlorinated solvent remediation in compliance with Environment Agency guidance, UK waste regulations, and current contaminated land risk assessment frameworks. Works are carried out by qualified environmental practitioners and coordinated with specialist hydrogeological consultants where required.
FAQ
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What are chlorinated solvents and why are they a concern?
Chlorinated solvents such as TCE, PCE, and DCE are synthetic chemicals commonly used in degreasing and industrial cleaning. They are persistent in the environment and can contaminate both soil and groundwater, posing risks to human health and controlled waters.
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How are chlorinated solvents detected on-site?
We conduct detailed site investigations, including soil and groundwater sampling. Laboratory analysis confirms the presence and concentration of these compounds to inform a suitable remediation approach.
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What remediation methods are used for chlorinated solvents?
We apply techniques such as chemical oxidation, in-situ bioremediation, soil vapour extraction, or excavation and disposal. The chosen method depends on the extent of contamination and site constraints.
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Do you manage vapour intrusion risks?
Yes. Where required, we assess the risk of vapour migration into buildings and implement mitigation measures such as barrier systems, ventilation layers, or sub-slab depressurisation systems.
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Are chlorinated solvents regulated in the UK?
Yes. These contaminants are tightly regulated due to their toxicity and persistence. We liaise with environmental consultants and the Environment Agency to ensure compliance at every stage.
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How long does chlorinated solvent remediation typically take?
Timescales vary significantly depending on the extent of contamination, depth of penetration, and remediation method chosen. Targeted chemical oxidation treatments may be completed in weeks. More complex plume management programmes using pump-and-treat systems or monitored natural attenuation can run for months or longer. Early site investigation is essential to give realistic programme forecasts.
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Can chlorinated solvent contamination affect planning permission?
Yes. The presence of chlorinated solvents will typically require a detailed contamination risk assessment as a condition of planning approval. Lenders and insurers may also require evidence of a compliant remediation strategy. Churngold helps clients prepare the technical evidence required to satisfy planning conditions and unlock development.
Talk to our remediation team
We’ll help you assess the risk and develop a plan that keeps your project moving safely and compliantly.
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