Impacts of Contaminants from Different Sources on Geotechnical Properties of Soils

Abstract

Within sites affected by industrial, domestic, and agricultural contaminants, the geotechnical characteristics of soils are susceptible to a certain degree of deterioration. The resultant corrosion of concrete exacerbates the vulnerability of underground structures, posing a potential hazard to the stability of superstructures. However, the current lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the precise influence of contaminants from different sources on the geotechnical properties of soils underscores the critical need for further research in this field. This review aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of various impacts, revealing that the permeability, shear strength, and compressibility of soils can either increase or decrease depending on the specific contaminants present. Notably, even though these impacts may not manifest prominently in the short term, their persistence can endure over an extended duration. The primary objective of this comprehensive review is to draw the attention of the scientific community and policy makers to this issue, emphasizing the need to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard a habitable environment for present and future generations.