What does 'Free Product' in soil indicate?

'Free Product' in soil refers specifically to the presence of a liquid hydrocarbon, such as diesel or heating oil, that is not dissolved in water and exists as a separate phase. This indicates that there has been a release of the substance from a storage tank or pipeline, leading to oversaturation of the area with that particular liquid. This situation can arise after a spill or leak, where the lighter-than-water liquids accumulate either on the surface of the groundwater or within the soil pore spaces.

The identification of free product is crucial in environmental assessments as it signifies potential contamination that not only impacts the soil but can also affect groundwater resources. The presence of free product indicates an ongoing risk to the environment and may require immediate remediation efforts to prevent further environmental damage. Understanding this term helps in assessing the level of contamination and planning appropriate response actions.