Geochemical studies

Geochemical sampling. Photo: GTK

The chemical composition of bedrock, sediments, soils and water is fundamentally important to the health of all living things. Geochemical surveys provide information on the distribution of the elements for mineral resource assessment and exploration, as well as for environmental monitoring and remediation. For example, it is essential to know the natural background levels of heavy metals in soil and groundwater to assess and monitor the potential impact of mining or land-clearing activities.

Geochemical mapping

GTK provides flexible and customized geochemical sampling, analysis, and data management and interpretation for a wide range of studies at different scales. Our continually evolving sampling and laboratory analytical capabilities are combined with application of advanced data reduction, interpretation and visualization, including anomaly enhancement, pattern recognition and GIS-based spatial modeling and self-organizing maps (SOMS).

GTK has been a pioneer in regional geochemical surveys and in demonstrating both the exploration and environmental potential of geochemical data. Benchmark achievements include publication of the three-volume Geochemical Atlas of Finland, and through international collaboration, the multidisciplinary studies Environmental Geochemical Atlas of Central Barents Region, Geochemical Atlas of Eastern Barents Region, the Geochemical Atlas of Europe and Agricultural Soils in Northern Europe: Geochemical Atlas. GTK has also played a central role in developing global standards for geochemical mapping.

Monitoring and assessment of contaminated sites

GTK provides sound, comprehensive advice in planning and implementation of remedial studies at all stages from preliminary investigations, through information and risk assessment and ongoing site monitoring to specific remediation strategies. The process usually involves preparation of an action plan based on site history and other background information, followed by controlled sampling according to certified procedures, under specialist supervision.

Based on the results of laboratory analyses and field observations, element concentrations and other contamination characteristics are defined and potential dispersal processes and pathways for toxic compounds are outlined, taking into account potential impact to society and the natural environment. Following this phase of analysis and risk assessment, site-specific remediation strategies are implemented with ongoing monitoring as required.

GTK has applied these kinds of studies to contamination problems relating to landfill (including hazardous waste), abandoned mines, and industrial sites such as scrap yards, sawmills, fuel-filling stations and wood impregnation plant sites. Related projects have been undertaken in Russia, Germany, Sweden and Estonia.