Environmental site assessment: evaluation of contaminated soil pollution based on physical-chemical and microbiological analyses

Abstract

This paper presents existent levels of soils pollution with organochlorinated pesticides, Lindane and DDT, in the proximity of two former Lindane and DDT suppliers (historical pollution). There were taken soil samples inside and outside the factories from different depths (20-150 cm). Analytical determination for both locations emphasized the following aspects:  there are two pollution sources: ex-Lindane/DDT installations and the landfills with HCH isomers and other chlorinated organic compounds;  the limit values stipulated by Order 756/1997 were exceeded (alert levels) outside the factories (HCH max =637 g/kg d.w. respectively (HCH max =264 g/kg d.w.) Microbiological load (mesophiles) was 2x108 and 4x107 CFU/g at 220C and 370C respectively (maximum values). DDT presence in soil was detected only in one studied case and the maximum value was 92 g DDX/kg d.w. (outside the factory). Inside the factory/landfill the concentrations levels of HCH isomers and DDX in soil were much higher.