Bioavailability of Contaminants in Soils and Sediments


Book Description

Bioavailability refers to the extent to which humans and ecological receptors are exposed to contaminants in soil or sediment. The concept of bioavailability has recently piqued the interest of the hazardous waste industry as an important consideration in deciding how much waste to clean up. The rationale is that if contaminants in soil and sediment are not bioavailable, then more contaminant mass can be left in place without creating additional risk. A new NRC report notes that the potential for the consideration of bioavailability to influence decision-making is greatest where certain chemical, environmental, and regulatory factors align. The current use of bioavailability in risk assessment and hazardous waste cleanup regulations is demystified, and acceptable tools and models for bioavailability assessment are discussed and ranked according to seven criteria. Finally, the intimate link between bioavailability and bioremediation is explored. The report concludes with suggestions for moving bioavailability forward in the regulatory arena for both soil and sediment cleanup.







Recent Advances in Trace Elements


Book Description

Comprehensive and multidisciplinary presentation of the current trends in trace elements for human, animals, plants, and the environment This reference provides the latest research into the presence, characterization, and applications of trace elements and their role in humans, animals, and plants as well as their use in developing novel, functional feeds, foods, and fertilizers. It takes an interdisciplinary approach to the subject, describing the biological and industrial applications of trace elements. It covers various topics, such as the occurrence, role, and monitoring of trace elements and their characterization, as well as applications from the preliminary research to laboratory trials. Recent Advances in Trace Elements focuses on the introduction and prospects of trace elements; tackles environmental aspects such as sources of emission, methods of monitoring, and treatment/remediation processes; goes over the biological role of trace elements in plants, animals, and human organisms; and discusses the relevance of biomedical applications and commercialization. A compendium of recent knowledge in interdisciplinary trace element research Uniquely covers production and characterization of trace elements, as well as the industrial and biomedical aspects of their use Paves the way for the development of innovative products in diverse fields, including pharmaceuticals, food, environment, and materials science Edited by well-known experts in the field of trace elements with contributions from international specialists from a wide range of areas Unique in presenting comprehensive and multidisciplinary information of the key aspects of trace elements research in a digestible form, this book is essential reading for the novice and expert in the fields of environmental science, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, pharmaceutical science, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical sciences. It is also valuable for companies that implement new products incorporating trace elements to the market.




Vermiculture Technology


Book Description

Exploring the dramatic growth and changes in the field of vermicomposting since 1988, this comprehensive review assesses the advancements made in government-funded projects in the U.S. and UK. It discusses outdoor and indoor windrows, container systems, wedge systems, and low labor-requirements. It also examines fully-automated continuous flow vermicomposting reactor systems that can process more than 1000 tons of organic wastes per reactor. The book highlights the science and biology behind the use and efficacy of vermicomposting and details the technology of the past, present, and future.