ABSTRACT

This paper provides a review of different analytical methods available for the characterization of contaminated soils. These methods include X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) infrared (IR), and Raman Spectroscopy (RS). Principles, applications and implementation considerations for each method are reviewed, along with specific examples of how each method has recently been applied to the characterization of contaminated soils. Knowledge of the capabilities of all available analytical methods is instrumental in the development of a testing methodology that is tailored to produce required results with optimum efficiency.