CSA International, Inc. has initiated a program to develop a remediation methodology that can be successfully utilized with marine sediments that have been subjected to excessive loading with organic compounds, particularly in deepwater environments where biodegradation processes are slowed due to low temperature.
To address this problem and in consideration of the inherent difficulties associated with working in deepwater, CSA has combined proven mechanical and biologic technologies to be applied in a unique way.
CSA has assembled the engineering and scientific team to take the program forward and has now completed the Preliminary Design Effort. The concept incorporates proven subsea equipment modified to deploy specific tools developed by the program to properly restore the deepwater seabed through the use of both mechanical and biological systems.
“The capability and capacity advancement of free flying and seabed crawling remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) has finally allowed us to deploy technology to the seabed in a way not previously possible, ” stated Kevin Peterson, President and CEO of CSA. “ By combining proven ROV tooling technology with the application of known biological compounds, we’re able to positively effect the remediation of marine sediments, speeding up its natural recovery.”
Phase II of the program includes a Pilot Study, during which the efficacy of the prototype will be evaluated in the lab. Phase III will build and test the full size tooling required to be deployed by ROVs of opportunity.
[mappress]
Dredging Today Staff, January 20, 2012; Images: csaintl