A review of the distribution coefficients of trace elements in soils: Influence of sorption system, element characteristics, and soil colloidal properties

Knowledge about the behavior and reactions of separate soil components with trace elements (TEs) and their distribution coefficients (Kds) in soils is a key issue in assessing the mobility and retention of TEs. Thus, the fate of TEs and the toxic risk they pose depend crucially on their Kd in soil. This article reviews the Kd of TEs in soils as affected by the sorption system, element characteristics, and soil colloidal properties. The sorption mechanism, determining factors, favorable conditions, and competitive ions on the sorption and Kd of TEs are also discussed here. This review demonstrates that the Kd value of TEs does not only depend on inorganic and organic soil constituents, but also on the nature and characteristics of the elements involved as well as on their competition for sorption sites. The Kd value of TEs is mainly affected by individual or competitive sorption systems. Generally, the sorption in competitive systems is lower than in mono-metal sorption systems. More strongly sorbed elements, such as Pb and Cu, are less affected by competition than mobile elements, such as Cd, Ni, and Zn. The sorption preference exhibited by soils for elements over others may be due to: (i) the hydrolysis constant, (ii) the atomic weight, (iii) the ionic radius, and subsequently the hydrated radius, and (iv) its Misono softness value. Moreover, element concentrations in the test solution mainly affect the Kd values. Mostly, values of Kd decrease as the concentration of the included cation increases in the test solution. Additionally, the Kd of TEs is controlled by the sorption characteristics of soils, such as pH, clay minerals, soil organic matter, Fe and Mn oxides, and calcium carbonate. However, more research is required to verify the practical utilization of studying Kd of TEs in soils as a reliable indicator for assessing the remediation process of toxic metals in soils and waters. MS: Mono-sorption system; CS: competitive sorption system; Fluvial: fluvial soil (Entisols); Lacus: Lacustrine soil (Entisols); Marine: sandy soil (Entisols); Aridis: Aridisols; Entis: Entisols; Vertis: Vertisols; Mollis: Mollisols; Histos: Histosols; Alfis: Alfisols. Effect of soil types on Cd and Zn distribution coefficient, Kd medium (Lkg−1) under mono-metal and competitive sorption system. [Display omitted] •Distribution coefficient (Kd) of trace elements (TEs) in soils has been reviewed.•Proves the link between Kd and sorption system, element types, and soil properties•