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Lead Abatement
MARCOR innovation delivers new, cost-effective methodologies for the abatement of lead and other heavy metals such as beryllium, cadmium, and mercury. Our highly efficient methods, combined with years of experience and regulatory expertise, can solve any heavy metal problem.
Case Studies
MARCOR is a U.S. EPA Lead-Safe certified firm. We expertly remove lead-based paint, lead dust, and lead in soil, including recovery of small arms bullet fragments. Abatement techniques include, but may not be limited to, the following:
Mechanical Separation
Bullet fragments in outdoor gun ranges may release lead into soil and groundwater over time. MARCOR invented the Pneumatic Separation Unit (PSU) to segregate lead bullet fragments from soil, rocks, and debris. The PSU has recovered more than a million pounds of lead from soils in a single firing range. The recovered lead was then recycled for financial gain to the client.
Chemical Stripping
Chemical stripping is performed by applying a solvent or caustic stripper to a painted surface with a brush or sprayer. Depending on the product and the thickness of the paint to be removed, the stripper remains on the surface from five minutes to up to 48 hours. Mechanical strippers, a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum system, or pressurized water may be used to remove chemical strippers and lead-based paints. This method minimizes airborne lead concentrations, reducing environmental risks and the need for costly enclosures.
Vacuum Blasting
For vacuum blasting, a blast nozzle is attached to a brush-lined shroud, which is held against the lead-based coatings to be removed. The abrasive and the debris are contained within the tool itself. While blasting, a built-in vacuum system carries the material to a collection bin. The abrasive can then be disposed of or cleaned and recycled. This method reduces lead exposure and minimizes containment needs.
Open Blasting
Open abrasive blasting is similar to vacuum blasting, but without a shroud. Its advantage is speed. During the blasting process, negative pressure must be maintained, along with a powerful vacuum for dust collection. The very fast production rate compensates for the cost of the large, sophisticated equipment. Containment is essential.
Industrial Vacuuming
Lead dust resulting from industrial or manufacturing processes must be HEPA-vacuumed and wiped from surfaces. Usually, wipe sampling is conducted to ensure that OSHA standards for cleanliness and lead contamination levels have been met.
Other Methods
Wheel blasting, electromagnetic radiation systems, CO2 blasting, and high-pressure water jetting offer alternative methods. MARCOR is also experienced with special applications for historic preservation projects. In addition, our chemical fixation technology involves incorporation of chemical reagents into lead-contaminated soil. Refer to the Soil and Groundwater section for details.
For additional information, call MARCOR's corporate headquarters at 1-800-547-0128 or send an e-mail to info@marcor.com.
