Use of geoelectrical methods to evaluate undustrial contamination near Setúbal, Portugal

This study consists on the estimation of contaminated soil volumes to be removed or remedied in a small industrial area near Setubal, Portugal, using geoelectrical methods. The area was used for a long period of time as a deposit of iron fillings impregnated with lubricating oil with high Zn content that can jeopardize its environmental quality. As a complement of a preliminary chemical analysis survey conducted to identify the problem, Induced Polarization and DC Resistivity surveys were also carried out, and results were related with Fe concentrations. Zn concentrations were estimated after Fe concentration and critical areas were identified using international standards. Bearing in mind these results, contaminated soil volumes were estimated.