Extraction and fractionation methods for exposure assessment of trace metals, metalloids, and hazardous organic compounds in terrestrial environments

It is demonstrated that similar methodologies are applicable to the exposure assessment of inorganic and organic pollutants in contaminated and native soils/sediments of different type and origin. A special emphasis is given to the correlation between the results of chemical extraction/fractionation and the data on the biouptake of trace metals, metalloids, and hazardous organic compounds by plants and soil organisms. Application of extraction techniques to the assessment of potentially biodegradable fractions of organic pollutants is also discussed and evaluated. Recent developments in dynamic extraction methods, which mimic natural scenarios more correctly than the batchwise counterparts, are presented in detail.