At approximately 23:30 on 10 October 2011 the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) contacted the National Response Center (NRC) concerning a release of Triethylene Glycol from the abandoned Emchem Corporation.
Based on initial assessments, triethylene glycol is leaking at a rate of 3-4 gallons per minute from a failed valve at the bottom of an 18,000 gallon Above Ground Storage Tank (AST). The cause of the leak is believed to be the result of uneven tank settling due to soft saturated ground caused by a significant rain event on 9 October 2011. Three other 18,000 gallon ASTs have also experienced uneven settling causing concern for the overall structural integrity of the tanks. The exact quantity of material stored in the four respective tanks is about 26,000 gallons. The owner/operator of the facility died more than a year ago.
EPA, START and ERRS mobilized to the site very early on 11 October 2011. The release was secured by removing the contents of the four precarious ASTs and transferring the liquids to Frac Tanks to await final disposal arrangements. EPA crews demobilzed on 12 October 2011. EPA crews will return to complete the disposal of the removed material. Further site assessment will be conducted.
