The use of organic based emulsions in the construction industry goes back over 50 years. The first commercial asphaltic emulsions were emulsified-asphaltic oils for dust control. Continued development of this technology produced asphaltic-based emulsion/aggregate systems strong enough not to flow or rut under traffic loading yet were resilient enough not to crack or break apart through weather extremes. In addition, organic based emulsions were developed for generic soil stabilization and dust control use. Professional guidelines have been published for the use of organic based emulsions in soil stabilization. The Asphalt Institute Manual Series MS-1, MS-10 and MS-14 covers specifications and methods for emulsified treated base. We have proven that an emulsion can also be made to sequester most cationic metals rendering them insoluble within the treated soil matrix. We propose to test both modidfied asphalt and tall oil pitch based emulsions for characteristics beneficial to mitigating on-site physical and chemical migration of depleted uranium(DU) in firing range soils. The study will evaluate treated soil strength parameters, DU solubility, DU corrosivity, biological impacts, and methods of field design and application. We also propose to conduct a field pilot test based on results of the laboratory work. Potential clients for this technology include DOD,USDOE, USEPA, and private industry.
Benefits: In place stabilization of DU contaminated soils should prove to be the most efficient and cost effective approach to remediation and on-going maintenance of active ranges. The technology could not only prove to be viable at DU contaminated manufacturing and military sites, but at other public and private facilities containing contaminants such as lead and arsenic.
