Abstract

In this study the leachability of metals from nineteen natural topsoils in the Netherlands has been investigated. The percolates were analyzed on the elements As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr Cu, Hg, K, Mg, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, V and Zn. The acidity, cation exchange capacity and the content of metals, clay and organic carbon of the soils have been determined. The following features were been derived: - Relationship was found between the content of clay and the content of Ba, Cr, K, Co, Cu, Mg, Na, Ni, Sn, V and Zn and between the content of organic carbon and Cd, Pb and Hg. - The emission measured by means of the column test showed correlation with the elemental content of Ca, Cd, Co, Pb, Mg and Na. - With the exception of Co, Cu and Hg, a significant relation was found between the emission on one hand and the organic content and cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soil on the other hand. - In general there was no significant correlation found between emission and the clay content or pH. - The emission of Ca, Mg and Na measured by means of the column test correlated well with emission measured by means of the availability test.