Straw TreeWell® Systems: Addressing Contaminated Groundwater at Extreme Depths
The TreeWell® System represents a transformative approach to phytoremediation, overcoming the depth and efficacy limitations inherent to traditional surface-planting methods. Capable of addressing impacted groundwater at depths exceeding 100 feet below ground surface (bgs), TreeWell Systems expand the applicability of phytoremediation to previously inaccessible environmental challenges.
Limitations of Traditional Phytoremediation
Conventional phytoremediation techniques are limited to groundwater at depths of 10-12 feet bgs without mechanical pumping. Additionally, traditional methods cannot selectively target specific lithologic horizons, rendering them impractical for addressing groundwater contamination in deep or complex geologic strata.
The Standard TreeWell System
Our standard TreeWell System reimagines phytoremediation through the integration of innovative engineering and ecological principles:
Design: A wide borehole is lined with an impervious Root_Sleeve™ liner and filled with enriched sandy loam, which facilitates vertical water and microbial movement while excluding surface precipitation.
Functionality: The tree planted in the unit utilizes solar energy to extract groundwater from the target zone, fostering deep root growth and creating a nutrient-rich environment for microbial communities.
Performance: Standard TreeWell units can achieve effective remediation of groundwater contamination at depths up to 25 feet bgs without irrigation and 35-40 feet bgs with strategic, temporary irrigation.
Standard TreeWell unit
Extending Depth Potential: The Straw™ TreeWell System
For contamination at extreme depths, the Straw TreeWell System offers an advanced solution:
The large TreeWell borehole is sealed at the bottom, and a smaller well casing (Straw) extends into the target zone, reaching depths limited only by the hydraulic head of the water in the target zone.
Groundwater is transported upward through the Straw well casing into the sealed unit through a secondary screen through natural hydraulic head pressure, eliminating the need for mechanical pumping.
Within the closed unit, contaminated groundwater (organic contaminants) is subject to the same in-situ bioreactor treatment as in traditional TreeWell units.
Straw TreeWell unit
Innovative Enhancements
In cases where contaminants are phytotoxic or resistant to microbial degradation, the patent-pending replaceable cartridge system allows for the integration of treatment media within the Straw well, such as activated carbon or resin, to pre-treat groundwater before it enters the TreeWell unit.
Significance
The TreeWell System’s ability to selectively target specific lithologic horizons and address extreme depths positions it as a meaningful alternative for the remediation of complex environmental challenges. By expanding the frontiers of phytoremediation, TreeWell Systems contribute to the development of more sustainable and effective groundwater treatment methodologies.
For further information on this innovative technology, please reach out or visit our website.
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