Cover-in-place

Cover-in-place (CIP) is a remediation technique involving the permanent containment or capping of contaminated materials, often soil, sediment, or waste, without physically removing them. This method typically involves sealing the hazardous materials, preventing their migration or exposure to the environment. CIP is favored when excavation is impractical, too costly, or poses additional risks. This technique aims to control contamination, prevent human or environmental exposure to the materials, and minimize further damage or disruption by containing contaminants within a barrier. It often utilizes barriers like liners, capping materials, or solidification agents.

Cover-in-place meaning with examples

• In the contaminated brownfield, complete excavation was cost prohibitive. Therefore, the environmental engineers chose the cover-in-place strategy, sealing the impacted soil with a thick clay cap and impermeable membrane. This process prevented further leaching of contaminants into the groundwater, effectively isolating the hazard. Regular monitoring ensures the effectiveness of the containment barrier and verifies that hazardous substances remain contained.
• After the chemical spill, the highly volatile substances made full removal extremely dangerous. A cover-in-place strategy was selected for this specific site, consisting of strategically constructed barriers, like geotextile membranes, to prevent off-gassing. This approach offered a safe and controlled solution, minimizing potential worker exposure. The team implemented rigorous monitoring to ensure that the barrier remains intact and functions as intended.
• The remediation plan for the former industrial site involved leaving in place a layer of contaminated material, then using cover-in-place with cement stabilization to form a foundation for the construction of a new building. This allowed building to be constructed at a low cost while preventing the hazardous substances from moving from the earth. Periodic testing will determine the effectiveness of the methods used to contain the hazard.
• At a former landfill site, the decision was made to enact cover-in-place to remediate the waste deposits due to its high cost-effectiveness compared to excavating and transporting the waste. The method involved laying a protective barrier, then landscaping over the contaminated area to stabilize the soil and prevent contact with the waste. Continuous site assessment and monitoring ensured the integrity of the cover.
• The construction of the highway bridge over the area with known contaminants used the cover-in-place method to remediate the location of concern. The impacted soil was sealed and isolated, and the area above was prepared for the road construction. This ensured the bridge construction would remain at a low cost and there would be minimum interruption for the project. Periodic site inspection will monitor the effects of the project.