Phytoextraction of metals from soils: how far from practice?
For most trace elements, the technique of phytoextraction needs significant improvements to become practically feasible. Calculations for Cd revealed that the amount of Cd taken up by Thlaspi caerulescens or Salix spp. needs at least to be the double of the present amount to slightly decrease the Cd concentration in the upper 0.5m of the soil within a period of 10 years. Additionally, metals taken up by the plants might pose an important risk. Alternatives as bioavailable contaminant stripping and phytostabilization might be more appropriate.
Van Nevel
Lotte
L
Laboratory of Forestry, Department of Forest and Water Management, Ghent University, Geraardsbergsesteenweg 267, B-9090 Melle, Belgium. lotte.vannevel@ugent.be
Mertens
Jan
J
Oorts
Koen
K
Verheyen
Kris
K
D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D018533:Biomass; D018556:Crops, Agricultural / Q000378:metabolism; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D010944:Plants / Q000378:metabolism*; D012989:Soil Pollutants / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D014131:Trace Elements / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*
D012989:Soil Pollutants; D014131:Trace Elements