Simultaneous Immobilization of Heavy Metals from Multi-metal Contaminated Soil Amended with Chrysopogon Zizanioides Root Micro Powder

Remediating soils contaminated with heavy metals is widely acknowledged as one of the most challenging issues due to the non-degradable nature of these pollutants. Among a variety of approaches, the in situ immobilization of heavy metals has garnered significant attention and emerged as a promising solution for remediating soil contaminated with these pollutants. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential of various materials in immobilizing heavy metals, consequently reducing their bioavailability and phytoavailability in contaminated soil. This study evaluated the simultaneous immobilization efficiency of vetiver root micro powder (VRMP) for immobilizing Pb, Cd and Cr from multi-metal contaminated soil. A comparative analysis was undertaken using batch studies, column leachate experiments and pot leachate experiments to assess the mobility of these heavy metals. Incorporating VRMP into the multi-metal contaminated soil resulted in an increase in pH and leading to a subsequent decrease in the mobility of heavy metals. Four different VRMP proportions (0%, 1%, 5% and 10%) were studied to suggest the optimal dosage of VRMP required for the effective remediation. The findings indicated that the soil treated with 10% VRMP demonstrated a greater immobilization efficiency. This research suggests a green technology with an eco-friendly approach for remediating heavy metal contaminated soil.