Metals and Inorganic Contaminants

Metals and semi-metals including lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium and arsenic are some of the most toxic contaminants of soil and groundwater.

Unlike hydrocarbons and other organic pollutants, they cannot be broken down by physical, chemical or biological agents. 

However, by manipulating site conditions in carefully controlled ways or by introducing engineered systems to a site, the mobility and toxicity of inorganic contaminants can be greatly diminished, reducing risks to acceptable levels and allowing regeneration to proceed.

Where contaminant removal remains the preferred option, ERS offers soil washing as a method to remove inorganic and organic contaminants. This intensive procedure can prove very cost-effective by significantly reducing the volume of contaminated material needing removal from site.