“Synchrotron radiation and isotopic analysis for deciphering polluted soil remediation techniques” par Diego Baragano (Spanish Council for Scientific Research – CSIC))

Soil health has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its crucial role in environmental stewardship and human survival. Among the factors contributing to soil degradation and declining soil health, pollution has emerged as a critical concern. To address this issue, various soil remediation techniques have been developed to mitigate the impact of contaminants, including soil stabilization through the application of amendments. This approach is gaining popularity due to its cost-effectiveness and environmentally friendly nature. A variety of amendments, particularly iron-based materials, have been investigated, with nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) receiving significant attention in recent years. However, the mechanisms through which this amendment facilitates soil remediation, especially under field conditions and over the long term, remain poorly understood. Recent efforts have focused on elucidating the mechanisms of pollutant immobilization in soils and their effects on plant growth, employing advanced techniques such as synchrotron radiation and isotopic analysis. This talk will present a summary of the latest research findings in this field.