Removal of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cr(III) from sand by electromigration

Abstract

This study presents the results of a new electrokinetic soil remediation technique in which a conductive solution is inserted between the cathode and the soil being treated. In this arrangement, the heavy metals will no longer precipitate in the treated soil. They are transported out of the soil and precipitated in the conductive solution. Furthermore, the decrease in conductivity, due to metals precipitated in the soil, has been avoided. Six laboratory tests have been carried out to remove lead (II), cadmium (II) and chromium (III) from sand. The experimental results show that metal removal efficiencies higher than 90% can be reached.