The application of solar cells in the electrokinetic remediation of metal contaminated sediments

Abstract

In this study, solar cells were used to generate an electric field for the electrokinetic remediation of metal contaminated sediment (Nickel, Cadmium, Zinc). For determination of metals mobility, bioavailability and potential toxicity, sequential extraction procedure, simultaneously extracted metals (SEM) and acid-volatile sulphide ratios (AVS) were performed before, during and after treatment.After 21 days of treatment, 63% Ni, 82% Cd and 58% Zn was removed from the anode region. The application of the electric field changed the chemical composition of the sediments. The risk assessment analysis based on pseudo total metals content, the risk assessment code and the relationship between SEM and AVS, indicates that a simple singular approach for risk assessment analysis and evaluation of the quality of sediments is not enough.