WO1996039561A1

WO1996039561A1 - Method and apparatus for leak prevention and remediation in storage tank systems

Info

Publication number: WO1996039561A1
Application number: PCT/US1995/006877
Authority: WO
Inventors: Morris E. Lewis
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1995-06-05
Filing date: 1995-06-05
Publication date: 1996-12-12
Anticipated expiration: 1997-12-05
Also published as: AU2763795A

Abstract

A method of remediating fluids leaked from a storage tank (2) placed so as to communicate with an underground cavity (24) lined with an impervious liner (26) and having permeable medium (6) interposed between the tank and liner. The method comprising collecting fluids at a collection point (44) for the collection and removal of leaked fluid with the collection point operating under the influence of gravity. One or more fluids is conveyed around the tank for the removal of the leaked fluid, through the permeable medium and, to the collection point.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LEAK PREVENTION AND REMEDIATION TN STORAGE TANK SYSTEMS

Background of the Invention

Field of the ϊnvention The present invention relates generally to a storage tank leak prevention, remediation and repair system, consisting of a leak prevention module, a remediation module and a service/repair module for in situ remediation and repair, and more specifically, to a tank secondary containment system having a novel modular remediation and flushing fluid dispensing system with an above ground or below ground leak proof environmental enclosure.

Description of Prior Art

Underground storage tanks are widely used commercially and in industry for bulk storage of liquids. These tanks are generally shipped from the manufacturer to the installation site fully assembled. As such, shipping of these assembled underground storage tanks is costly and cumbersome and requires special handling and heavy equipment. These tanks are often mistreated during shipping and handling, thus causing damage to the tank, which could progress to a serious leak. In addition, the stresses caused by settling of the medium in which the tank is installed or buried can cause leaks. Prior secondary containment systems are widely used commercially and in industry for emergency containment of spilled or leaked hazardous liquids. Various methods are used for building these systems. The prior art shown by Patent No. 4,818,151 discloses a method which is used for building secondary containment systems. An important feature of the present invention is the novel addition to state of the art systems, that will prevent leaks and will allow in place clean up of leaked or spilled product from above ground or underground storage tanks ("USTs") and repair of these tanks without excavating the UST's from the ground.

Recent concerns regarding leaking storage tanks and spilled hazardous liquids have increased the need for an efficient and economical method for containment and clean-up of leaked or spilled hazardous liquids from above ground or underground storage tanks. The present invention represents an improvement over the prior art by providing an efficient, economically built, and easily installed means to stop leaks, repair the tank and for remediation of the remaining leaked or spilled hazardous liquids for above ground or underground environments.

Summary of the Invention

An underground storage tank system within a pit enclosure includes underground storage tanks, a flushing system for cleaning leaked product from within the pit enclosure, a monitoring well system positioned adjacent to the underground storage tank for detecting liquid leaks, and cable-mounted anchors to secure the underground storage tank body in place. A related system is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 07/919,732, filed July 31, 1992, and to issue June 6, 1995, as U.S. Patent No. 5,421,671. The disclosures of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 07/919,732 are incorporated by reference herein.

Tanks were originally placed underground to provide safe storage for volatile liquid materials. For many years, when storage vessels failed and the liquids leaked into the ground, not much thought was given to environmental damage; however, this is not the case today.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an on-site and already installed leak prevention and remediation means for above ground or underground storage tanks. It is another object of the invention to provide a remediation fluid containment vessel constructed within an above-ground or below ground leak proof environmental enclosure that has a remotely controlled monitoring system. It is still a further object of the invention to provide a means within the above ground or below ground leak proof structure, which can provide efficient and effective remediation, with minimal disruption to normal operations.

Leak prevention components are located on the vent piping of the tank and when the flow of air pressure to the tank is obstructed, the tank will cease to leak. These components are locally or remotely operated. When the leak detection system detects a leak, they are activated, thus shutting off the leak. Additionally, when a vacuum pressure is introduced to the vent line, it will further serve to shut off the flow of the leak.

A modular remediation containment vessel is provided within the hole enclosure and includes remediation apparatus located adjacent to the tank for cleaning leaked product from the tank and from within the hole enclosure, a fluid recovery system positioned at the base and adjacent of the containment vessel and cable-mounted anchors to secure the above ground or underground storage tanks securely in place.

The remediation containment vessel is used to collect and contain those liquids which might leak from underground storage tanks and associated piping. This vessel is situated in a hole which is lined with a membrane and a system of drainage, monitoring and/observation wells and after the tank is installed, it is backfilled with a highly permeable material.

The hole liner must be extremely strong to properly function. The remediation containment vessel membrane liner is made up of sheets of synthetic material, such as plastic, spread over the tank excavation walls and floor and in the pipe trench to provide containment if the primary container leaks. A number of synthetic rubber and polymeric membrane liners can be used. The most commonly used membranes for chemical or petroleum liquid storage are polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, chlorinated polyethylene, chlorosulfinated polyethylene, butyl rubber or neoprene.

In installing the liner, it is first cut to fit the tank hole. Next, it is spread over the tank hole and pipe runs. Joints are joined and sealed as by heat sealing using a hot wedge welder, extrusion fillet welding or an appropriate adhesive and special boots are installed around pipe risers and tank fittings. Lining the tank hole in this manner provides an effective long-term method of secondary containment of product, in the event that a leak should occur. Other materials such as concrete can be used to line the containment hole for an above ground tank.

A system for monitoring/observation wells and piping is next installed to detect and monitor leaks within the flushing containment vessel. Most of the piping is 4-inch diameter PVC pipes. The horizontal segment of the pipe is half slotted, wrapped with a mesh cloth to prevent backfill infiltration, and sloped towards the sump with a slope of approximately of 1/4 inch per foot. At the corners of the secondary containment hole, there are vertical pipes which are joined to the horizontal pipes by tee connectors. These pipes are also slotted and extend up to grade. They house the sensors and some of the wiring for the remote monitoring system. One, and in some cases, two of the pipes are larger than 4-inches in diameter. These pipes extend to the base of the sump, and serve as wells that are used to pump or vacuum leaked product or excess water from the secondary containment hole if the need arises.

A bed of at least 12-inches of backfill is placed in the bottom of the hole and over the horizontal piping. A single wall tank is installed. On top of that bed and around the tank, a highly permeable backfill of pea gravel or crushed rock is used in the hole to allow leaking product or vapor to flow. The remediation secondary containment is carefully placed on the bed of backfill and additional backfill is carefully placed around the tank as the hole is filled with this highly permeable backfill. Sensors, as known in the art, such as intermittent gas-phase, intermittent liquid- phase, continuous gas-phase or continuous liquid-phase, are used to detect leaks by detecting the liquid product or the vapors from the leaked product. The sensors sense the leak and emit a detection signal which is then carried over the wires to the transmitter at the top of the well, or by way of other wires to a receiver/microprocessor system located in an adjacent building or structure. There the signal is further transmitted by radio wave, by satellite communications, by cellular telephone, or by regular telephone lines or by other means of communication to a remote monitoring station. There, it is received and processed by a monitoring computer system, and appropriate response measures are taken. The remediation system includes an upper remediation system and/or a lower remediation system, which provide remediating fluid directed from above the tank, around the tank and below the tank. The upper remediation system is suspended by straps or cables above the tank. Additionally, the lower remediation system is supported by straps or cables suspended from the tank. Fluid flowing through dispensers in the upper remediation system remove or neutralize contaminants from the permeable material above and surrounding the tank. Fluid flowing through dispensers in the lower remediation system remove or neutralize contaminants from the permeable material around the lower portions of the tank and below the tank. Remediating fluid flows to the lowest portions of the enclosure hole or pit and is prevented from entering the ground by the liner in the pit. The sump located at this lowest point is connected by piping which runs from and under the tank to one or more access wells which are accessible from above ground. Contaminants can be removed from the pit enclosure through these wells. In addition, a cleaning or flushing agent can also be dispensed through the remediation system and removed from the sump.

Remediation has several additional aspects. First, the leakage from the tank is reduced or minimized by depressurizing the tank. This is accomplished by shutting a valve in the tank vent. Second, after the tank is drained by pumping out the remaining liquid in the tank, a remediation fluid is sprayed from a spray nozzle located in the top of the tank into the tank to eliminate vapors and otherwise clean out the inside of the tank. Third, the leaked liquid is removed from the permeable material or medium beneath the tank by inserting a spray nozzle in the hole in the tank and remediating fluid is sprayed into the permeable medium. This fluid and the leaked liquid carried by it flow to the sump for removal. Following remediation of the tank and permeable medium, a flushing agent can also be sprayed into the tank and into the permeable medium.

The remediating fluid can be water, preferably hot, (hydroremediation), water borne microbes (bioremediation), chemicals (chemical remediation) or air (air sparging). The threat of leaked product to the surrounding environment is substantially reduced or eliminated due to the fact that the product is contained within the leak proof secondary containment hole, thus allowing a response team to vacuum and store the remaining product from the tank. The leaked product, which flows through the pea gravel, is vacuumed or pumped from the secondary containment hole by inserting a pipe or hose which is connected to a suitable pump and tank, into the large fluid recovery tube, down to the sump. When all leaked product is removed from the hole, the tank is repaired by a person entering and patching the cleaned tank or by remotely controlled means inserted into the cleaned tank and activated to patch the leak. The remediation system is activated by connecting a hose to the connector of the tank flushing system, whereupon, a fluid is sprayed over and through the pea gravel, where it drains to the bottom of the hole, on to the sump, and is pumped out. The system may be flushed with a suitable detergent in the tank flushing system, if needed.

The service unit contains various pumps, vacuum sources, power generation components, compressors, tanks, reservoirs, hoses, connectors, sensors, cameras, recorders and necessary data processing and control components. The unit is designed to provide power, vacuum pressure, fluidic pressure, bioremediation means, air pressure and other remediation means as desired for servicing, remediating and repairing the tank systems. The unit can be operated locally or remotely, as the situation dictates. The service unit interfaces with the remediating unit by cabling, pipes, hoses, couplings and connectors.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The foregoing and other objects, aspects, uses, and advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated by referring to accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of an installed underground storage tank situated in a remotely monitored and controlled self-flushing secondary containment system in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective overhead frontal/side view of installed underground storage tanks situated in a remotely monitored and controlled self-flushing secondary containment system with a leak signal from a recovery/monitoring well being transmitted by radio wave to the remediation monitoring receiver and micro controller in the service station;

Fig. 3 illustrates a frontal view of tanks showing a remediation system in place;

Fig. 4 illustrates a partially fragmented view of the lower remediation unit of Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 illustrates a partially fragmented view of a tank with the cavity remediation unit dispensing remediation fluids through the leak cavity into permeable medium into which the product leaked;

Fig. 6 illustrates a partially fragmented view of a tank showing the tank inspection and cleaning unit;

Fig. 7 is an elevation view of an above ground storage tank having a remediation system installed in a pit enclosure beneath the tank; and

Fig. 8 is a top view of the remediation system of Fig. 7.

Description of the Preferred Embodiment

Referring now to the drawings, like reference numerals represent identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. In Fig. 1, there is shown an underground storage tank, and modular self flushing and self decontaminating flushing containment vessel mounted in a secondary containment hole enclosure 24 holding pea gravel or the like 6. The tank 2 may store liquids such as fuel oil or gasoline and is filled through fill tube 2a. Adjacent to the tank 2 in the secondary containment enclosure 24 is an upper remediation system 8 with a cap 10 thereon. Upper remediation system 8 extends across enclosure 24 and is above and/or adjacent to tank 2. A fluid recovery system 12 is connected at the bottom of the hole to the monitoring wells 4, having well caps 4a. A manway or utility access receptacle 14 is supported on the tank 2 and operatively connected thereto. The utility access receptacle 14 has a cap 17. In addition to providing access to the tank 2, the manway or utility access receptacle 14 serves as an auxiliary tank for spills and constitutes an added safety factor for handling excess liquid overflow. In the fluid recovery system 12, there are conventional decontamination sensors 18 for monitoring the area within the enclosure 24. Deadman anchor weights 20 are positioned in the bottom area of the gravel-filled hole enclosure 24. Suitable cables 22 are attached and swing upwardly and over the tank 2 and firmly grasping it in a secure manner. The anchor arrangement 20, 22 with suitable weights add to the shock resistant environment of the gravel-filled hole enclosure 24. A hard surface pavement 25 such as concrete with the respective cap openings, furnishes a cover for the hole enclosure 24. Further, to add to the leak proof environment of the secondary containment hole enclosure 24, a plastic liner 26 consisting of a resin resistant to corrosion by gasoline, other hydrocarbons, and chemicals, such as butyl rubber, vinyl ester or unsaturated polyester is inserted into the hole enclosure 24 during its construction.

Thus, to preclude this problem, secondary containment enclosure 24 serves as a flushing containment vessel used to collect and contain those liquids which might leak from the tank 2 and associated piping. This system includes a hole which is lined with a membrane 26 and a system of monitoring and/observation wells 4 and recovery system 12 and after the tank is installed, it is backfilled with a highly permeable material 6. The hole or pit has a slope S on the order of 1/4 to 1/2 inch per foot.

The hole liner must be extremely strong to properly function. The flushing containment vessel membrane liner, is essentially a sheet of polymeric material 26, made of the materials mentioned above, spread over the tank excavation walls and floor and in the pipe trench to provide containment if the primary container leaks. A number of polymeric materials are used in the manufacturing of synthetic membrane liners. The most commonly used membranes 26 for chemical or petroleum liquid storage are polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, chlorinated polyethylene, chlorosulfϊnated polyethylene, butyl rubber, or neoprene.

The liner is first cut to fit the tank hole. Next, it is spread throughout the tank hole and pipe runs. Joints are joined and sealed and special boots are installed around pipe risers and tank fittings. Lining the tank hole is this manner, will provide an effective long-term method of secondary containment of product, in the event that a leak should occur. A concrete liner or a liner of similar materials can be used for above ground tanks.

A system of monitoring/observation wells 4 and piping 12 are next installed to detect and monitor leaks within the flushing containment vessel of Fig. 1. Most of the piping is 4-inch diameter PVC pipes, installed as shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3. The horizontal segment of the pipe is half-slotted, wrapped with a mesh cloth to prevent backfill infiltration, and sloped towards the sump 44 with a slope on the order of 1/4 inch per foot (shown exaggerated in Fig. 2). At the corners of the secondary hole containment 24, there are vertical pipes 4 which may be joined to the horizontal pipes 12 by tee connectors. These pipes are also slotted, and extend up to grade. They house the sensors 18 and some of the wiring 36 for the remote monitoring system (Fig. 2). One, and in some cases, two of the pipes are larger than 4-inches in diameter. These pipes extend to the base of the sump 44, and serve as wells that are used to pump leaked product or excess water from the secondary containment hole if the need arises. A highly permeable backfill of pea gravel or crushed rock 6 is used in the hole to allow leaking product or vapor to flow. But first, a bed of at least 6-inches of backfill is placed in the bottom of the hole and over the horizontal piping. The tank 2 is carefully placed on the bed of backfill 6 and additional backfill is carefully placed around to tank as the hole is filled with this highly permeable backfill.

Sensors 18, of intermittent gas-phase, intermittent liquid phase, continuous gas phase, and continuous liquid phase type, as known in the art, are used to detect leaks by detecting product or the vapors from the leaked product. Fig. 2 shows the transmission of a detected leak signal. The sensors 18 (Fig. 1) sense the leak and emit a detection signal which is then carried over the wires to the transmitter 28 at the top of the well, or by other wires 36 to the receiver/microprocessor system 38 located in an adjacent building. There the signal is further transmitted by radio wave 30, by satellite communications 34, by cellular telephone, or by regular telephone lines 32 or by other means of communications to the remote monitoring station 40. There, it is received and processes by the monitoring computer system 42, and appropriate response measures are taken.

The leaked product poses no threat to the surrounding environment due to the fact that the product is contained within the leak proof secondary containment hole 24, thus, allowing the response team to vacuum and store the remaining product from the tank 2. The leaked product, which flows tiirough the pea gravel 6, is vacuumed or pumped from the secondary containment hole by inserting a hose which is connected to a suitable vacuum source or pump and tank, into the large fluid recovery tube 4, down to the sump 44. When all leaked product is vacuumed from the hole, the tank 2 is repaired by a person entering the cleaned tank and patching the leak or by inserting remotely controlled means and patching the leak. The self-flushing system is activated by connecting a hose to the connector of the upper remediation system 8, having dispensers 16, whereupon, a fluid for decontamination, bio-remediation and/or flushing is sprayed over the tank 2 and through the pea gravel 6, where it drains by the force of gravity to the bottom of the hole, on to the sump 44, and is pumped out. The system is then flushed with a suitable detergent in the same manner as described above.

A lower remediation conduit 47 extends from a lower remediation system connector 49 on to the lower remediator 46 and dispensers 48. Upper remediation system 8 is held in place and supported by cables or suspension 8X.

The upper remediation or self-flushing system 8 and dispensers 16, or the lower remediation flushing system 46 having dispensers 48 are activated by connecting a feeder hose to the connector of the tank flushing system 10, whereupon a fluid for remediation and flushing is sprayed over the tank 2 and through the pea gravel 6, where it drains to the bottom of the hole, on to the sump 44 and then is pumped out. The system is then flushed with a suitable detergent in the same manner as stated above. Fig. 3 illustrates a frontal view of tanks showing the remediation system in place and shows the relationship and connection of the upper and lower remediation systems relative to the tank 2 and the fluid recovery system.

Fig. 4 illustrates a fragmented sectional view of the lower remediator unit 46 showing the cap 10 to the remediator unit removed and a hose 66 from the service unit connected to the remediator unit hose connector 8a. The control unit 8b along with the manifold 8c routes the remediating fluids to the desired feeder tube on to the dispenser 48, where the remediating fluid is sprayed on the tank or the pea gravel within the secondary containment environment. A similar arrangement (not shown) is employed for the upper remediation system.

Fig. 5 illustrates a partially fragmented view of a tank with a cavity remediation dispensing unit 50 dispensing remediation fluids R through spray nozzle 53 through the leak cavity 52 into the leaked product. The remediation fluids are pumped under pressure through the leak cavity into the pea gravel, where it will clean the leaked product from the pea gravel and recovery unit.

In operation, the remediation system includes an upper remediation system and a lower remediation system, which provide remediating fluid directed from above the tank, around the tank and below the tank. The upper remediation system is suspended by straps or cables above the tank. The lower remediation system is supported by straps or cables suspended from the tank. Fluid flowing through dispensers in the upper remediation system remove or neutralize contaminants from the permeable material above and surrounding the tank. Fluid flowing through dispensers in the lower remediation system remove or neutralize contaminants from the permeable material around the lower portions of the tank and below the tank. Remediating fluid flows to the lowest portions of the enclosure hole or pit and is prevented from entering the ground by the liner in the pit. The sump located at this lowest point is connected by piping which runs from and under the tank to one or more access wells which are accessible from above ground. Contaminants can be removed from the pit enclosure through these wells. In addition, a cleaning or flushing agent can also be dispensed through the remediation system and removed from the sump. Remediation has several additional aspects. First, the leakage from the tank is reduced or minimized by depressurizing the tank. This is accomplished by shutting a valve in the tank vent. Second, after the tank is drained by pumping out the remaining liquid in the tank, a remediation fluid is sprayed from a spray nozzle, located in the top of the tank, into the tank to eliminate vapors and otherwise clean out the inside of the tank. Third, the leaked liquid is removed from the permeable material or medium beneath the tank by inserting a spray nozzle in the hole in the tank and remediating fluid is sprayed into the permeable medium. This fluid and the leaked liquid carried by it flow underground to the sump for removal. Following remediation of the tank and permeable medium, a flushing agent can also be sprayed into the tank and into the permeable medium.

The remediating fluid can be hot water (hydroremediation), water borne microbes (bioremediation), chemicals (chemical remediation) or air (air sparging). Hydro-remediation is used to remediate volatile, or low viscosity hazardous liquids such as gasoline. To hydro-remediate, hot water is the primary remediating agent. The remediation system is connected to a hot water source and activated by connecting to the connector of the tank remediation dispenser. The hydro-remediation fluid is sprayed under suitable pressure over and through the pea gravel. It flows over and remediates the surfaces of the contaminated pea gravel and UST components. The hydro-remediating fluids and hazardous liquids flow to the bottom of the hole, into the system recovery piping, on to the sump, whereupon, they are pumped out. The system may then be flushed as needed with a suitable cleaning agent.

Bio-remediating is used to remediate a wide range of hazardous liquids. Cultured microbes have been developed and are commonly used to remediate all types of hazardous liquids, such as gasoline and other petroleum products, and chemicals. To bio-remediate, waterborne microbes are the primary remediating agent. The pea gravel and other contaminated surfaces in the secondary containment vessel are turned into a bio-reactor. The microbes consume and metabolize the hazardous liquids, resulting in residue of carbon dioxide and water. After this is completed, warm water is sprayed over the surfaces of the contaminated pea gravel and UST components. The remediated fluids flow on to the bottom of the hole, into the system recovery piping, on to the sump, whereupon, they are pumped out.

Chemical remediation is used to remediate less volatile, or high viscosity hazardous liquids such as heavy oil, chemicals, etc. To chemically remediate, suitable chemicals which will dissolve or emulsify the leaking liquid are the primary remediating agent. The remediation system is connected to the chemical source and activated by way of connecting to the connector of the tank remediation dispenser. Whereupon, the chemical remediation fluid is sprayed under suitable pressure over and through the pea gravel. It flows over and remediates the surfaces of the contaminated pea gravel and UST components. The chemical remediating fluids and hazardous liquids flow on to the bottom of the hole, into the system recovery piping, on to the sump, whereupon, it is pumped out. The fluids are pumped to a suitable container and disposed of in an approved manner. The system may then be flushed as needed with a suitable cleaning agent. Air sparging is used to remediate volatile or low viscosity hazardous liquids such as gasoline. In air sparging, a rapid air flow is the primary remediating agent. The remediation system is connected to a compressed air source and activated by connecting to the connector of the tank remediation dispenser. The pressurized air is forced under suitable pressure over and through the pea gravel. It flows over and remediates the surfaces of the contaminated pea gravel and UST components. The pressurized air and hazardous liquid vapor flow on to the bottom of the hole, into the system recovery piping, on to the sump, whereupon, they are vacuumed out. The system may then be flushed as needed with a suitable cleaning agent.

Fig. 6 illustrates a partially fragmented view of a tank showing the tank inspection and cleaning unit inside of the tank. Inspection of the tank is accomplished by way of the unit spotlight 54 illuminating the inside of the tank, the unit sensor 56 (for vapors or the like) and the maintenance unit operator viewing the inside of the tank 2 with the system camera 58. Cleaning of the tank is accomplished with the unit sprayer 60 dispensing cleaning agents and fluids under pressure into the inside of the tank, whereupon the agents or fluids clean the tank and are vacuumed by vacuum aerator 62 from the tank.

Fig. 7 shows an elevation view of an above ground tank 102 having a remediation system 108 with dispensers 116. Fig. 8 shows a top view of the remediation system 108. Remediation system 108 is installed in a pit enclosure 124 having liner 126 and filled with pea gravel 106. The pit enclosure is connected by piping 112 to sump 144 which is connected to well 104. The operation of the remediation system 108 is similar to that described above for the system used with underground tanks. Although certain presently preferred embodiments of the present invention have been specifically described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that variations and modifications of the various embodiments shown and described herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims and the applicable rules of law.

Claims

WHAT TS Γ.I.AIMP.D TS;

1. A method of remediating fluids leaked from a storage tank placed so as to communicate with an underground cavity lined with an impervious liner and having permeable medium interposed between the tank and liner, the method comprising the steps of: collecting fluid at a collection point for the collection and removal of leaked fluid, said collection point operative under the influence of gravity; and conveying one or more fluids for the removal of the leaked fluid through and around the tank, through the permeable medium and to the collection point.

2. A method as in claim 1 , wherein a first decontaminating fluid is conveyed through and around the tank, through the permeable medium and to the collection point.

3. A method as in claim 1, wherein a second flushing fluid is conveyed through and around the tank, through the permeable medium and to the collection point.

4. A method as in claim 1, wherein the collection point is a sump located at the lowest point within the lined cavity.

5. A method as in claim 1, wherein the fluid is conveyed by a trunk feeder, tank exterior sprayer, and tank interior sprayer.

6. A method as in claim 2, wherein the decontaminating fluid is selected from the group of fluids consisting of hot water, cultured microbes, chemical agents, and air.

7. A method as in claim 3, wherein the flushing fluid is a cleaning agent.

8. A method as in claim 1, wherein said fluid is introduced into said tank by spraying said fluid.

9. A method as in claim 1, wherein said fluid is introduced into said permeable medium by spraying said fluid through a leakage hole in said tank.

10. A self-flushing, and self-decontaminating, remotely monitored and controlled shock resistant, leak-proof secondary containment system comprising: a sloped trench floor provided in a pit, which is covered by a membrane liner, a stress resistant membrane sheet member along the inner and outer bottom surfaces of the pit membrane liner, a permeable stabilizing member to allow remediating fluid and flushing fluid to flow freely around contaminated members, a sump cavity member and perforated elongated tubular members for retrieving remediating and flushing fluids located in the lowest portion of the pit, a means for remotely monitoring and controlling leak detection, decontaminating, and flushing members, and a means for remotely monitoring and controlling members connected to perforated elongated tubular members located along the inner membrane at the bottom of the pit.

11. A secondary containment decontamination flushing and fluid recovery system comprising: a means for containing the leaked fluid within the secondary containment enclosure member; a means for removing the leaked fluid from the secondary containment enclosure member; a means for releasing cleaning agents throughout the secondary containment enclosure member; a means for releasing remediating fluid throughout the contaminated area; a means for cleaning the leaked product from the outside tank and piping surface members, the surface of the permeable material and other components within the enclosure members; and a means for removing the cleaning agent and remediating fluid from the enclosure member.

12. A secondary containment decontamination, flushing and fluid recovery system as defined in claim 11, wherein spraying members release agents selected from the group of agents consisting of hot water, microbes, chemicals, air and cleaning agents to decontaminate and flush leaked fluids from the surfaces of contaminated components within the secondary containment enclosure.

13. A secondary containment decontamination flushing and fluid recovery system as defined in claim 11, wherein vacuuming and pumping members remove fluids from contaminated components within the secondary containment enclosure.

14. A method for remediating and repairing underground tank systems, comprising the steps of: providing a cavity in the ground, defining a substantial interior volume for a hazardous fluids and vapors and remediating fluids or vapors containment means, the bottom of said cavity being sloped; providing a fluid conveying means at the base of said cavity; placing a liner in said cavity, said liner being impervious for containment of hazardous fluids and vapors, and remediating fluids and vapors, the liner and sloped cavity together constituting a flushing containment vessel; placing a cushioning means in the cavity between the ground and said liner and contoured in a manner similar to the sloped base of the cavity, and serving as a buffer to negate the friction and puncture effects of the ground on the liner means in the cavity; positioning a recovery means for conveying air, vapor, fluids and other debris in a desired direction in the flushing containment vessel and located in a manner consistent with allowing remediating and flushing fluids to flow by means including gravitational force; locating a pump or vacuum device at the lowest point of the flushing containment vessel and connected to a sump; locating a sump at the lowest point in the flushing containment vessel for collecting and allowing for the recovery of remediating and flushing, vapor, fluids, debris and other matter, conveyed by the sump; suspending an underground storage tank in a permeable material, said permeable material being a series of unevenly shaped and sized particles that will allow leaked or spilled hazardous liquids, air, and vapor and remediating fluids, vapor, and microbes, and flushing fluids and vapors, to flow by gravitational forces, vacuum pressure or by pumping through cavities therein; conveying remediating fluids, vapors, microbes or other agents to the area designated for remediation by a remediating means comprising a trunk feeder, a tank exterior dispenser, and tank interior dispenser said remediating means being located inside of or in close proximity to the outside of the underground storage tank, and positioned in such a manner as to allow for the disbursement of remediating fluids, vapors, and other agents along the exterior walls, the interior walls, and through the leakage cavity of the underground storage tank, the piping trench of the tank system, and through the permeable material within the flushing containment vessel; conveying flushing fluids, vapor, or other agents to the exterior of the tank by a flushing means comprising trunk feeder, and exterior dispenser means, said flushing means being located in such a manner as to allow for the disbursement of flushing fluids, vapors, and other agents along the exterior walls of the underground storage tank, the piping trench of the tank system, and throughout the permeable material within the flushing containment vessel; determining the type and quantity of contamination, and other data relating to the hazardous vapor, and hazardous liquids contained within or in proximity to the recovery means located within the flushing containment vessel, by sensor means are located in or adjacent to the recovery means the sensor means being connected to data controllers means, and data processing means, by way of suitable signals transmission and receiving means; monitoring and controlling remediation and flushing; recovering vapor from the remediation system by introducing inlet airflow through perforated or open members of the remediation system, and venting or vacuuming vapors from the remediation system; preventing leaks by reducing atmospheric pressure within the tank thus stopping or reducing fluid flow from the tank; repairing holes in the tank.

15. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the bottom of the cavity is arranged in a sloped-trenched configuration, constituting, the base of the flushing containment vessel, which is located in the interior and along the base of a similarly contoured, membraned storage tank secondary containment vessel, for retaining and conveying remediating and flushing fluids and other fluidic materials to the recovery means.

16. The invention in accordance with claim 14, wherein the fluid recovery means are axially, elongated perforated pipe members, placed along the length of, to the lower points of, the sloped-trenched member, located in the contoured base of the flushing containment vessel and provides a means for the recovered fluids to travel on to a portion of the sump means, located at the lowest point within the system.

17. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the permeable materials base is grated pea gravel arranged in the same manner as the sloped-trenched contoured base of the flushing containment vessel.

18. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the lower flushing trunk feeder means communicate with the lower flushing spray means, and are non-perforated fluid conveying means which serve to convey the remediating fluids, or agents from the mobile service and maintenance means, through a manifold system means to the lower flushing spray means.

19. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the remediating exterior dispensing means communicate with the lower flushing trunk means, and are perforated, elongated, tubular, fluid conveying means which serve as a means of releasing remediating agents, microbes or other remediating agents along the outside tank and piping surfaces, and throughout the flushing containment vessel, and act as means for cleaning the leaked product from the outside tank and piping surface means, the surface of the permeable material and other components within the flushing containment vessel and the interior flushing spray means, disburses fluids, vapors, microbes and other agents through the leakage cavity of the storage tank, on to the recovery means.

20. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the upper flushing trunk means communicate with the upper flushing dispensing means, and are non-perforated fluid conveying means which serve to convey the flushing and remediating fluids, or agents to the flushing spray means.

21. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the upper flushing spray means communicate with upper flushing trunk means and are perforated fluid conveying means which flush the remediating agents and the leaked product from the outside surface of the tank and piping means the surface of the permeable material and other components within the enclosure means, on to the recovery means.

22. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the remediation sensor means are located within or adjacent to the fluid recovery piping, and serve to sense the effects of the remediating agents on the leaked hazardous liquids and vapors, and also assist in detecting leaks from storage tanks, and from piping into the flushing containment vessel.

23. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the sensors means being connected by way of cabling means or signals conveying means, to analysis and controlling means, wherein analysis and controlling signals are transmitted over wire means and radio transmission means to a receiving, processing and local control means, whereupon the processed signal is further transmitted over long distance wire means and long distance radio transmission means, to a regional remote control station.

24. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein data controllers means communicate with the sensor means, whereby the signal is processed and responded to, and the remotely controlled sensor is interrogated and the remediation and flushing equipment is monitored and further controlled as needed.

25. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein data processing means communicate with data controller means whereby data from the remediating analysis process within the flushing containment vessel is evaluated with the detection signal that was transmitted over wire means and radio transmission means to receiving, processing and local control means, whereupon the processed signal is further transmitted over long distance wire means and long distance radio transmission means, to the regional remote control station, whereby the signal is processed and responded to, and the remotely controlled sensor is interrogated and the flushing and remediation equipment is monitored and further controlled.

26. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the monitoring/control members provide local and remote monitoring of remediation and flushing system components and provides control over the remediation and flushing system.

27. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein the means for preventing leaks in storage tanks is a manually or power operated valve, and vacuum means, connected to the vent piping, which when activated, reduces or eliminates atmospheric pressure within the tank thus stopping or reducing fluid flow from the tank.

28. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein a service module provides necessary high, medium, and low pressure pump, vacuum, air and fluid conveying means, electric pneumatic, mechanical and hydraulic power means, manual, electric, pneumatic and hydraulic valve and regulating means, fluid, chemical and microbe storage and dispensing means, control, communicating and other means to operate, maintain and service the remediation and repair means.

29. The method in accordance with claim 14, wherein repair members provide a varied means for repair and restoration of leaking storage tanks, said repair member allow for either manual or robotics repair means to close and repair any leak cavities or holes and render the tank capable of containing liquids.

30. The method in accordance with claim 17, wherein the permeable materials base is grated pea gravel or similar unevenly shaped and sized means, the surface of said permeable materials means form a bio-reactor means, whereby microbes, bacteria, enzymes, or other such matter will cultivate and serve as the bio-remediation means for the system.

31. An underground storage tank self-decontamination and monitoring/control system comprising in combination: a cavity dug in the ground, defining a substantial interior volume for hazardous fluids and vapors and decontaminating fluids or vapors containment means, the bottom of said cavity being sloped and having a fluid conveying means at its base; a liner means impervious for containment of hazardous fluids and vapors, and decontaminating fluids and vapors, the liner means and sloped cavity together constitute a flushing containment vessel for the hazardous liquids and vapors decontamination system; cushioning means placed in the cavity between the ground and said liner means and contoured in a manner similar to the sloped based of the cavity, and service as a buffer to negate the friction and puncture effects of the ground on the liner means at the base of the cavity; a recovery means for conveying air, vapor, fluids and other debris in a desired direction, being positioned in the flushing containment vessel and located in a manner consistent with allowing decontaminating and flushing fluids to flow to the sump means, located at the lowest point of the flushing containment vessel; the sump means located at the lowest point in the flushing containment vessel for collecting and allowing for the recovery of decontaminating and flushing, vapor, fluids, debris and other matter by way of a conveying means; an underground storage tank means suspended in a permeable means, said permeable means having a series of unevenly shaped and sized means that will allow leaked or spilled hazardous liquids, air, and vapor decontaminating fluids, vapor and microbes, and flushing fluids and vapors, to flow through cavities contained within; a decontaminating means comprising trunk feeder means, tank exterior spraying means, and tank interior spraying means, for conveying decontaminating fluids, vapors, microbes or other agents to the area designated for decontamination, said decontaminating means being located inside of or in close proximity to the outside of the underground storage tank, and positioned in such a manner as to allow for the disbursement of decontaminating fluids, vapors, and other agents along with the exterior walls, the interior walls, and through the leakage cavity of the underground storage tank, the piping trench of the tank system, and through the permeable material means within the flushing containment vessel; a flushing means comprising trunk feeder means, and exterior spraying means, which will convey flushing fluids, vapor, or other agents to the exterior of the tank, said flushing means being located in such a manner as to allow for the disbursement of flushing fluids, vapors, and other agents along the exterior walls of the underground storage tank, the piping trench of the tank system, and throughout the permeable material means within the flushing containment vessel; sensor means located in or adjacent to the recovery means for determining the type and quantity of contamination, and other data relating to the hazardous vapor, and hazardous liquids contained within or in proximity to the recovery means located within the flushing containment vessel, the sensor means being connected to data controllers means, and data processing means, by way of suitable signals transmission and receiving means; a monitoring and controlling means, providing necessary monitoring, controlling, power, signal and voltage means and other required monitoring and controlling means necessary to monitor and control the underground storage tank decontamination and flushing systems; and a vapor recovery means, for introducing inlet airflow through any perforated, or open member of the system, and venting, vacuuming or otherwise recover vapors from the decontaminating system.

32. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the bottom of the cavity is arranged in a sloped-trenched configuration, constituting, the base of the flushing containment vessel, which is located in the interior and along the base of a similarly contoured, membraned underground storage tank secondary containment vessel, for retaining and conveying decontaminating and flushing fluids and other fluidic materials to the recovery means.

33. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the fluid recovery means are axially, elongated perforated pipe members, placed along the length of, to the lower points of, the sloped-trenched member, located in the contoured base of the flushing containment vessel and provides a means for the recovered fluids to travel on to a portion of the sump means, located at the lowest point within the system.

34. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the permeable materials base, is grated pea gravel or other similar unevenly shaped or sized means, arranged in the same manner as the sloped-trenched contoured base of the flushing containment vessel.

35. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the decontaminating trunk feeder means communicate with the decontaminating spray means, and are non- perforated fluid conveying means which serve to convey the decontaminating fluids, or agents from the mobile service and maintenance means, through a manifold system means to the decontaminating spray means.

36. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the decontaminating exterior spraying means communicate with the decontaminating trunk means, and are perforated, elongated, tubular, fluid conveying means which serve as a means of releasing decontaminating agents, microbes or other remediating agents along the outside tank and piping surfaces, and throughout the flushing containment vessel, and act as means for cleaning the leaked product from the outside tank and piping surface means, the surface of the permeable material and other components within the flushing containment vessel and the decontaminating interior spray means, disburses fluids, vapors, microbes and other agents through the leakage cavity of the underground storage tank, on the recovery means.

37. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the flushing trunk means communicate with the flushing spraying means, and are non-perforated fluid conveying means which serve to convey the flushing fluids, or agents to the flushing spray means.

38. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the flushing spray means communicate with flushing trunk means and are perforated fluid conveying means which flush the deα>nt-_m-r_ating agents and the leaked product from the outside surface of the tank and piping means, the surface of the permeable material and other components within the enclosure means, on the recovery means.

39. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the decontamination sensor means are located within or adjacent to the fluid recovery piping, and service to sense the effects of the decontaminating agents on the leaked hazardous liquids and vapors, and also assist in detecting leaks from underground storage tanks, and from piping into the flushing containment vessel.

40. A system in accordance with claim 31, whereby the sensors means being connected by way of suitable cabling means or signals conveying means, to suitable analysis and controlling means, wherein analysis and controlling signals are transmitted over wire means and radio transmission means to a receiving, processing and local control means, whereupon the processed signal is further transmitted over long distance wire means and long distance radio transmission means, to the regional remote control station.

41. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein data controllers means communicate with the sensor means, whereby the signal is processed and responded to, and the remotely controlled sensor is interrogated and the decontamination and flushing equipment is monitored and further controlled as needed.

42. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein data processing means communicate with data controller means whereby data from the decontaminating analysis process within the flushing containment vessel is evaluated with the detection signal that was transmitted over wire means and radio transmission means to receiving, processing and local control means, whereupon the processed signal is further transmitted over long distance wire means and long distance radio transmission means, to the regional remote control station, whereby the signal is processed and responded to, and the remotely controlled sensor is interrogated and the flushing and decontamination equipment is monitored and further controlled as desired.

43. A system in accordance with claim 31, wherein the monitoring/control members provide necessary local and remote monitoring of decontamination and flushing system components and provides control over the decontamination and flushing system as desired.

44. A system in accordance with claim 34, wherein the permeable materials base is grated pea gravel or similar unevenly shaped and sized means, the surface of said permeable materials means form the bio-reactor means, whereby microbes, bacteria, enzymes, or other such matter will cultivate and serve as the bio-remediation means for the system.