Potentials of Miscanthus×giganteus grown on highly contaminated Technosols

• Published in: Journal of geochemical exploration 2013-03, Vol.126-127, p.78-84
• Main Authors: Wanat, Nastasia, Austruy, Annabelle, Joussein, Emmanuel, Soubrand, Marilyne, Hitmi, Adnane, Gauthier-Moussard, Cécile, Lenain, Jean-François, Vernay, Philippe, Munch, Jean Charles, Pichon, Martin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Arsenic; Heavy metals; Lead; Miscanthus × giganteus; Phytostabilization; Technosol
• ISSN: 0375-6742; 1879-1689
• DOI: 10.1016/j.gexplo.2013.01.001

Mining activities produce a huge amount of contaminated wastes inducing potential risks for groundwater and/or food chain. As classical remediation solutions are very expensive, the necessity to find alternative rehabilitation is needed. The aim of this study was to assess the growth of Miscanthus×giganteus (high lignocellulosic biomass used as biofuel) on highly contaminated mining media. In the way to control the parameters, experiments were conducted during 3months in phytotron from composite mining soils without inputs developed from a former gold mine rich in arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and antimony (Sb). Results gave evidence of a clear aerial biomass reduction, whereas no real impact on physiological activity and development, as well as a very low translocation factor of contaminants to aerial parts are effective. The major conclusions are (i) the capacity of Miscanthus×giganteus to grow on highly contaminated soils, and (ii) its short-term use as soils phytostabilizer by cropping the plant without any inputs. ► Feasibility of Miscanthus×giganteus growth on highly contaminated soils ► Low transfer of metal and metalloid to aerial parts is effective. ► Miscanthus×giganteus is a good candidate for revegetalization or stabilization of mine soils.