Cost estimation for application of ultrasonication–ozonation hybrid process in remediation of PAH-contaminated soil

Soil contamination is a significant environmental issue, and a cost-effective and environmentally friendly remediation method is essential for effective management. This paper has presented a cost analysis of the hybrid ultrasonication/ozonation (HUO) technology for the remediation of industrial sites contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The economic feasibility of this HUO technology was evaluated and then compared to other soil remediation methods proposed by the EPA. Using the experimental and mathematical optimization, 98 optimal modes of the proposed technology, achieving a removal efficiency of 71 ± 1%, in terms of both capital expenses (CAPEX) and operational expenses (OPEX), were identified. It turned out that the average annual costs for the HUO technology were divided into 33% for OPEX and 67% for CAPEX. The most expensive component in the CAPEX was ultrasound units at 45%, followed by uncertainty, exclusive equipment, installation engineering, contractor, and site work. Regarding the OPEX, components replacement was the most contributor at 39%, followed by electrical energy, labor costs, and laboratory analysis at 36%, 23%, and 2%, respectively. The study found that the proposed method was less costly than soil washing and comparable to thermal desorption at $160/ton. It was concluded that the proposed technology was cost-effective and environmentally friendly for the remediation of industrial sites contaminated with PAHs. The paper provides valuable insights into the economic feasibility of the proposed technology, which can be significant for researchers, managers, and governmental authorities, who are responsible for selecting appropriate remediation methods for contaminated industrial sites.