At AEL Environment, we help property owners and developers address complex soil and groundwater contamination challenges with innovative technologies. Phase Change Remediation can be one of the most effective remedial technologies for contaminants with high volatility, and where both speed and effectiveness are important factors.
What is Phase Change Remediation?
Phase change remediation works by transferring contamination from a liquid or dissolved state into the vapour phase, where it can be removed and treated using a Soil Vapour Extraction (SVE) system.
This technology is especially effective for contaminants with high volatility, such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) commonly found in fuels and chlorinated solvents. In some cases, the process can be accelerated by increasing the temperature of the subsurface, which increases the rate of transfer into the vapour phase.
Beyond removing vapours, soil vapour extraction also increases oxygen flow in the subsurface. This oxygen boost can stimulate naturally occurring microbes, enhancing bioremediation for certain contaminants and can significantly reduce cleanup timelines compared to conventional methods.
Identifying and Managing Vapour Intrusion Risks on Your Property
One of the critical considerations in volatile contamination is the risk of vapour intrusion—the migration of contaminated vapours from soil or groundwater into indoor air. Because buildings naturally draw air in from the subsurface, vapours can accumulate inside, potentially impacting indoor air quality and posing serious health risks to occupants.
If you suspect vapour intrusion at your property, AEL can perform an air and soil vapour quality assessment to determine your level of risk and guide you through your options.
AEL environment creates tailored solutions for each property based on its clients’ goals.
Let’s talk, and our team will guide you through the process.
Is Phase Change Remediation Right for Your Property?
Phase change remediation is best suited for sites with volatile contamination, such as:
- Gas stations, fuel depots, and automotive repair shops that have experienced petroleum spills
- Industrial properties with chlorinated solvent impacts
- Commercial or residential sites where indoor air quality may be at risk from vapour intrusion
When choosing a remediation approach, it’s important to balance:
- Desired outcome – knowing a client’s end-goal often helps narrow down the options available
- Project timeline – how quickly the site needs to be restored
- Budget and resources – managing cleanup costs effectively
- Human health protection – ensuring safety for employees, residents, or customers
Take the Next Step
AEL’s team of engineers and geoscientists will work with you to evaluate your site-specific conditions and design a strategic Remedial Action Plan that is best-suited for your site.
If your property may be affected by volatile contamination, Phase Change Remediation could be the right solution. Let’s discuss how this technology fits your site and your objectives.
What Our Customers Have To Say
Upon the completion of our second project with AEL environment, they have once again provided exceptional and friendly service having quickly designed and delivered a customized remedial solution during an active dealership renovation that included underground structural upgrades. Charna and her team really took the time to understand our unique needs, delivering practical recommendations and effective results, streamlined with our construction schedule. Communications with all AEL team members was always quick, responsive, and easy to understand. The team is highly professional, reliable, and supportive making us feel like we are not just another “file number”. We highly recommend AEL to anyone seeking top quality environmental service and solutions and look forward to working with them again on our next project.
Phil Martiniello, Director, Retail Project Management
Drive Auto Group
Our Process
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1. Discover
Every property is unique. We will listen carefully and seek clarity to ensure we understand your site’s unique details and goals.
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2. Identify
We will recommend an optimal approach, innovative and cost-effective services and solutions for your site, focused on achieving your desired outcome.
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3. Analyze
Once authorized, we will complete the required research, testing, consulting or reports to required standards. We take the time to review any results and reports together.