Phytoremediation: A sustainable method for cleaning up the contaminated sites

In Chile, there are several abandoned mine tailing impoundments near population centers that need to be remediated. In this study, the ability of Oxalis gigantea, Cistanthe grandiflora, and Puya berteroniana to remove Zn, Ni, and Cr from mine tailings was evaluated. The plants’ removal efficiency, bioconcentration, and translocation factors regarding these metals were determined to assess the ability of certain endemic species from Northern and Central Chile to extract or stabilize metals. After a period of seven months, the chemical analysis of plants and tailings, together with the statistical treatment of data, indicated the inability of all the species to translocate Ni, Cr, or Zn with a translocation factor lower than one. The results showed the stabilizing character of Oxalis gigantea, Puya berteroniana, and Cistanthe grandiflora for Zn, with a bioconcentration factor close to 1.2 in all cases, and the same ability of the latter two species for Cr, with a bioconcentration factor of 1.5 in the case of Cistanthe grandiflora and 1.7 for Puya berteroniana. Finally, a removal efficiency of 9.3% was obtained with Cistanthe grandiflora for Cr and 15% for Ni; values lower than 6.4% were obtained for Zn in all cases. Improvements in the process should be sought to enhance the performance of these species for the accumulation of the target metals.

show abstract

“…The bioconcentration factor ( BCF ) was obtained for the roots using Equation (2) [ 39 , 44 , 45 , 46 , 47 ].…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

An Assessment of the Metal Removal Capability of Endemic Chilean Species

Lazo

Urtubia

et al. 2022

IJERPH

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…Phytoremediation strategies for heavy metal pollution mainly include phytovolatilization, phytostabilization and phytoextraction. The mechanisms involve the production of root exudates that enhance heavy metals mobility and the production of metal-chelating agents (e.g., metallothionines, phytochelatins and antioxidant compounds) [ 111 ]. Phytovolatilization means that pollutants are absorbed by the roots, transferred to the leaves and volatilized through the stomata (transpiration), in which toxic metals are converted to less toxic and volatile compounds (such as Hg).…”

Section: In Situ Remediation Technologymentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Plants have the capability to isolate or fix/stabilize contaminants in the rhizosphere by absorption at the root surface or precipitation within the root zone. This process is called phytostabilization [ 111 , 114 ]. The plants must have dense rooting systems, a relatively long life and self-propagating capacity [ 108 ].…”

Section: In Situ Remediation Technologymentioning

confidence: 99%

In Situ Remediation Technology for Heavy Metal Contaminated Sediment: A Review

Chai

2022

IJERPH

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Sediment is an important part of the aquatic ecosystem, which involves material storage and energy exchange. However, heavy metal pollution in sediment is on the increase, becoming an important concern for the world. In this paper, the state-of-art in situ remediation technology for contaminated sediment was elaborated, including water diversion, capping, electrokinetic remediation, chemical amendments, bioremediation and combined remediation. The mechanisms for these techniques to reduce/immobilize heavy metals include physical, electrical, chemical and biological processes. Furthermore, application principle, efficiency and scope, advantages and disadvantages, as well as the latest research progress for each restoration technology, are systematically reviewed. This information will benefit in selecting appropriate and effective remediation techniques for heavy metal-contaminated sediment in specific scenarios.

show abstract