Title: Determination of distribution coefficient: a critical review

Authors: Pankaj Pathak; D.N. Singh; G.G. Pandit; R.R. Rakesh

Addresses: Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400076, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400076, India ' Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Section, Environmental Assessment Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085, India ' Process Development Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085, India

Abstract: Geomaterials (soils and rocks) exhibit peculiar physical, chemical, mineralogical and biological properties, which influence their interaction with the contaminant(s) to a great extent. This interaction can be quantified by employing a parameter 'Distribution coefficient', k_d, which plays an important role for determining sorption and desorption characteristics of the contaminant when it interacts with geomaterial(s). Apart from the soil specific properties, k_d depends upon the pH of the pore solution, ambient temperature, type and concentration of competitive ions, the presence of microorganisms, etc. Usually, batch, column and lysimetric tests are employed for determining k_d. However, it has been observed that k_d varies in a wide range and the methodologies adopted for its determination have their limitations and shortcomings. As such, these methodologies are being critically evaluated by researchers so that they may be modified or replaced by new ones, which are easy to adopt and yield reliable results quickly. With this in view, efforts have been made in this paper to highlight the importance and role of parameters that influence determination of k_d. Further, details of the studies related to determination of k_d as reported by earlier researchers and a commentary on the guidelines for determining it are also presented in this paper.

Keywords: geomaterials; contaminants; interaction; sorption; desorption; critical evaluation; distribution coefficient; soil contamination; environmental pollution.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2014.062980

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2014 Vol.14 No.1, pp.27 - 64

Received: 01 Sep 2012
Accepted: 27 May 2013
Published online: 31 Jul 2014 *

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