In situ retreival of contaminants or other substances using a barrier system and leaching solutions and components, processes and methods relating thereto

A method of extracting a desired material from a subterranean zone of interest, the method comprising:

• constructing an impermeable collection barrier to substantially contain the zone of interest, the impermeable collection barrier including at least one permeable portion exposed to the zone of interest allowing access to a collection system contained with the impermeable collection barrier;
• generating a flow of extraction solution effluent through the zone of interest by providing an extraction solution to the zone of interest to extract the desired material therefrom;
• and
• collecting the extraction solution effluent from the zone of interest using the at least one permeable portion.

A process for decontaminating a zone of interest, comprising:

• substantially isolating the zone of interest from a surrounding environment by providing a containment system including a collection barrier;
• creating a flow of a treatment effluent through the zone of interest by introducing a decontamination solution to the zone of interest;
• and
• removing the treatment effluent from the zone of interest through the collection barrier to treat at least one contaminant present in the zone of interest.

A method of treating a zone of interest, comprising:

• constructing an impermeable barrier to substantially contain the zone of interest;
• generating a restricted flow of effluent through the zone of interest by introducing a treatment solution to the zone of interest;
• providing at least one treatment solution introduction source constructed to introduce the treatment solution to the zone of interest;
• and
• collecting effluent from the zone of interest through the at least one removal pipe to remediate a contaminant therein.