Impact of physiochemical properties, microbes and biochar on bioavailability of toxic elements in the soil: a review

Environ Geochem Health. 2022 Nov;44(11):3725-3742. doi: 10.1007/s10653-021-01157-w. Epub 2021 Nov 22.

Abstract

The pollution of toxic elements (TEs) in the ecosystem exhibits detrimental effects on the human health. In this paper, we debated remediation approaches for TEs polluted soils via immobilization methods employing numerous amendments with reverence to type of soil and metals, and amendment, immobilization competence, fundamental processes and field applicability. We argued the influence of pH, soil organic matter, textural properties, microbes, speciation and biochar on the bioavailability of TEs. All these properties of soil, microbes and biochar are imperative for effective and safe application of these methods in remediation of TEs contamination in the ecosystem. Further, the application of physiochemical properties, microbes and biochar as amendments has significant synergistic impacts not only on absorption of elements but also on diminution of toxic elements.

Keywords: Heavy metals; Immobilization; Microbial communities; Soil amendment; Soil properties.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Availability
  • Charcoal / chemistry
  • Ecosystem
  • Environmental Restoration and Remediation*
  • Humans
  • Metals, Heavy* / analysis
  • Soil / chemistry
  • Soil Pollutants* / analysis

Substances

  • biochar
  • Soil
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Metals, Heavy
  • Charcoal