An experiment in the electrokinetic removal of copper from soil contaminated by the brass industry

Chemosphere. 2006 May;63(6):950-5. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2005.08.068. Epub 2005 Nov 17.

Abstract

The feasibility of electrokinetic remediation of copper-contaminated soil was evaluated following eight days of electroreclamation. The results indicate that electrokinetic reclamation of Cu is totally ineffective in soil composed primarily of clay minerals and organic matter. The strong absorption of copper by this kind of soil, in our view mainly a result of retention by the clay component, makes it resistant to mobilization by the electrogenerated acidic front as well as by citrates (the competitors of natural chelating agents, i.e., humates). Such conditions, while adverse for the electroremediation process, may cause this kind of soil to act as a natural barrier to the leaching of copper ions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Absorption
  • Copper / analysis*
  • Electrodes
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Kinetics
  • Metallurgy*
  • Refuse Disposal / methods*
  • Soil / analysis*
  • Soil / standards
  • Soil Pollutants / analysis*
  • Zinc / analysis*

Substances

  • Soil
  • Soil Pollutants
  • brass
  • Copper
  • Zinc