Trenchless technologies, particularly cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), are increasingly preferred in urban areas due to minimal surface disruption, smaller work zones, and less impact on communities. However, environmental concerns have arisen regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are emitted during the CIPP processes. This research evaluates the emissions from CIPP liners, comparing them to the regulatory standards established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) to assess risks to workers and nearby residents. Case studies were conducted on sewer pipeline rehabilitation at various sites across the USA. Six CIPP installations were analyzed, varying in resin type, curing method, and pipe geometry. Air monitoring methods included the use of photoionization detectors (PIDs), Summa canisters, worker sampling, and EPA TO-18 testing, conducted at both inlet and outlet manholes. The findings indicate that UV curing using non-styrene-based resins is the most environmentally friendly option, as it produces emissions below regulatory thresholds.
Abbas et al. (Thu,) studied this question.