Metal Immobilization Influence on Bioavailability and Remediation for Urban Environments

Immobilization of soil contaminants, such as lead, via phosphate amendments to alter the chemical environment of metals into highly insoluble forms is a well established process. The literature has documented numerous examples of highly contaminated Pb sites at shooting ranges, battery manufacturing facilities, etc treated with various forms of phosphate sources to reduce extractable Pb translating to reduced bioavailability and increased environmental stability. However, few immobilization studies explore the impact of Pb contaminated residential soils with regard to children's health. This presentation will highlight past success stories of metal immobilization in residential settings. In addition, an introduction to a multi-disciplinary collaboration entitled “PAYDIRT” will provide preliminary details for a New Orleans city-wide effort to immobilize metal contaminants in residential, public, and commercial soils coupled with a clean soil cap.