Review of stabilization/solidification technique for remediation of heavy metals contaminated lands

Recently, stabilization/ solidification of heavy metals contaminated soils (HMCS) using lime, cement, and other binders has been widely adopted in geoenvironmental engineering practice. In this paper, the mechanisms of heavy metal-soil-binder interaction are overviewed based on literature studies. The performance of various leaching test standards for solidified HMCS is compared and discussed. The unconfined compression strength properties and influencing factors of solidified/ stabilized heavy metal contaminated soils are also presented. The leaching properties, durability and long-term performance of HMCS from domestic and international studies are summarized. Finally, based on the current studies in China, it is suggested that the minimum strength requirement of HMCS should be given; and test specification of dynamic leaching tests should be built as the assessment criteria of contaminated lands remediation.