Distribution, transformation and bioavailability of trivalent and hexavalent chromium in contaminated soil

The purpose of this study was to investigate solid-phase distribution, transformation, and bioavailability of Cr in Cr(III) and Cr(VI) contaminated soils. The effects of EDTA treatment on solid-phase distribution of Cr in soils were also examined. The results show that Cr in both initially Cr(III)- and Cr(VI)-contaminated soils was mainly present in the organic matter bound fraction. Chromium had similar solid-phase distribution and similar overall binding intensity in both Cr(III)- and Cr(VI)-contaminated soils after a growing season. Transformation between Cr(III) and Cr(VI) took place in both Cr(III)- and Cr(VI)-treated soils. Chromium in the Cr(III)-contaminated soils was mostly present as Cr(III), while Cr in Cr(VI)-treated soils was mainly transformed into Cr(III). About 2% of Cr in native non-treated soils was found as Cr(VI). EDTA treatment increased Cr in soluble and exchangeable fraction in Cr(III)-treated soils. In both Cr(III)- and Cr(VI)-contaminated soils, Cr in oxide bound and organic matter bound