International Journal of Waste Resources

Abstract

Mobility of Metals from Drill Cuttings

Justyna Kujawska and Wojciech Cel

Forecasting threats resulting from the presence of heavy metals in various elements of the environment plays an important role in environmental studies. Metals in solid environmental samples are found in many forms and phases that differ in respect of mobility, bioavailability and toxicity. Pollution from deposited drilling wastes can penetrate into the environment, particularly the heavy metals may be released to the environment through rainfalls. Rainfalls may alter the pH, redox conditions and may lead to migration of metals in surface and ground waters. The aim of the study was to determine whether drill cuttings contain metal forms capable of migration in aquatic and soil environment, which would increase their availability for flora and fauna.