Initial situation

The Schwarze Pumpe site is one of the largest lignite upgrading sites of the former GDR (German Democratic Republic). As active upgrading operations were closed down, the exploration and removal of the contamination caused by mining on the site began. Depending on the type of use, and the intensity of the initial contamination, over time the underlying soil had also become seriously contaminated. This was the case at the former coking plant site.

Approach

During the first stage the buildings and technical plant of the upgrading area were demolished, while at the same time areas where contamination was suspected were more closely explored, and a hazard assessment produced. This led to the drafting of an appropriate soil removal plan.
The plan was the basis for the excavation, removal, and separation (according to the results of analytical testing) of altogether 120,000 m³ of soil. Following the results of analysis, 70,000 m³ of the excavated material were replaced, and 50,000 m³ partially exploited, before being finally disposed of. The material deficit was compensated for by the import of material. With an eye to future use, the building pits were filled and compacted layer by layer.

Result

The application of this renaturation technology has meant that the site of the former coking plant is now permanently decontaminated and free of pollution, ready for the uses planned by new investors. The challenging soil decontamination restoration work was carried out between 20053 and 2006.