Geochemical studies
Geochemical sampling. Photo: GTK
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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.
