Site Summary VertaseFLI were approached by the client’s Consulting Engineer to provide a solution for mercury contaminated soil, discovered whilst excavating foundations for a new development. On site remediation was not an option and as can be seen above, the soil contained free phase mercury which presented significant challenges for disposal.
Stabilisation and Disposal
VertaseFLI were quick to identify that the transport and handling of this soil could be overcome by the stabilisation of the soil and mercury into non-reactive blocks. A mix design was quickly developed and a specialist, operator free, mixing plant mobilised to site. Mercury contaminated soils were loaded into the mixer by machine with no human contact. Fixing agents were then added along with granular material to assist in the curing of the blocks. The contents were then mixed to a slurry before pouring into plastic moulds for solidification. The blocks of stabilised waste were later removed to a point of disposal by crane and lorry.
Regulatory Compliance
In addition to the innovative approach adopted, VertaseFLI confidently managed the clients problem without delaying site works through a thorough understanding of the new waste regulations. By applying the principles of the Landfill Directive and working with the waste management companies, we minimised the costs whilst ensuring that the client and engineer were provided with a solution fully compliant with new legislation.
Cement stabilisation remains one of the most cost effective methods for dealing with high risk, non biodegradable persistent chemicals in soil. | 
