GTK offers a proficient yet cost-effective services for identifying acid sulfate soils, assessing the related risks and managing environmental impacts.
GTK’s acid sulfate soil surveys form a service that enables the identification of acid sulfate soils and taking them into account in all land use measures such as peat production, wetland construction, ditching, and infrastructure construction. Our experts’ extensive knowledge of the soil is an advantage when interpreting the occurrence and risk management of acid sulfate soils.
The basic service includes the following
The analysis of the samples and the risk assessment cover matters such as determination of the acid generation potential and sulfide concentration of the soil. The recommended measures include the planning of preventive measures such as neutralisation (lime treatment).
The identification and risk assessment of acid sulfate soils can also be carried out using quick methods at the GTK research laboratory or, if necessary, on site.
In addition, GTK arranges training on the identification of acid sulfate soils and related risk assessments. Sampling, sample handling and classification as well as sample analyses can also be covered during the training.
GTK`s service supports the objective of the EU Water Framework Directive and the national river basin management plans to improve the chemical and ecological status of surface waters. Acidity and metals leaching from acid sulfate soils have been identified in the river basin management plans as one of the most significant factors deteriorating the state of coastal river waters.
The aim with the service is to improve the quality of surface waters and groundwater, especially in coastal areas where acid sulfate soils are commonly found. By planning risk management measures, the acidity and metal load from acid sulfate soils on watercourses can be effectively reduced.
Acid sulfate soils can be a harsh corrosion environment for various structures, steel, and concrete. Identification of acid sulfate soils and related risk management are the best ways to prevent these disadvantages.
GTK surveys can also be used to plan the management and utilisation of surplus acid sulfate soil from construction as ecologically as possible while also reducing the amount of soil to be deposited. The emissions from the neutralisation of masses can be reduced by measures such as calculating the lime volume or alternatively by replacing lime with industrial side-stream materials.
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