Fluoride and chromium concentrations in soil adjacent to remedially treated distribution poles
IRG/WP 96-50066
D C R Sinclair, G M Smith, A Bruce, H J Staines, P Durrant
Soils adjacent to Rentex treated 'on-line' distribution poles were analysed for total fluoride and chromium content for comparison with background values of these elements. Soil samples 6 cm and 25 cm downslope of selected poles were recovered at 1 week, 1 month, 6 and 12 months after treatment. Background soil samples were taken 50 m from the poles at sampling times. Fourteen poles were selected for use on the basis of groundline moisture content. Results indicated significant fluoride and chromium soil contamination adjacent to the treated poles. Preservative loss appeared to increase up to 6 months after treatment and was associated with pole moisture content. Results are discussed in terms of the relationship between preservative efficacy and environmental impact.