Chemical Analysis of Contaminated Land

Book excerpt: This book provides a unique source of reference on the chemical analysis of potentially contaminated land. It assists in specifying appropriate analyses, relevant strategies for carrying out analyses, and methods of interpreting results within the new risk-based legislative framework for contaminated land. It addresses all aspects of the analysis, from delivery of the samples to the laboratory to the presentation of the results to the clients. Emphasis is placed on concentrated, tabular data, wherever possible. Problems of analysis are highlighted and solutions are proposed. Asbestos is covered in detail in the chapter on inorganic parameters, and a chapter is included on the new techniques of ecotoxicity measurement. Directed equally at the analytical chemist and the environmental scientist or engineer responsible for commissioning analyses of potentially contaminated soil or water samples, the book is written in a way that will prove helpful to both new and experienced practitioners. As such, it is one of the first volumes to bridge the gap between the customer and the supplier.