SEDL / STP / STP1161-EB / STP25078S

Field Results of Hydrocarbon Vapor Monitoring to Detect Leaking Tanks

Durgin, PB
Senior Research Scientist, Veeder-Root Co., Simsbury, CT

Michelson, RW
Vice-President of Geosciences, On-Site Technologies, Inc., Campbell, CA

Pages: 8    Published: Jan 1993

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Abstract

Vapor monitoring for leak detection around underground storage tanks (UST) is generally regarded as being plagued by false alarms. Examples of field data from six sites are provided. Vapor monitoring indicates real leak or spill events but methods are needed to differentiate between the two. Site assessment, appropriate installation of monitoring points, overfill/spill protection, and data analysis are all important factors for a well-operating vapor monitoring system. Vapor monitoring may gain importance over time as systems are improved, subsurface contamination is reduced, and demands increase for providing assurance that sites are clean.