Geochemical modulation of bioavailability and toxicity of nitroaromatic compounds to aquatic plants

Nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) are prominent soil and sediment contaminants that are strongly adsorbed by smectites at extents that depend on hydration properties of the exchangeable cation. Potassium smectites adsorb nitroaromatics much more strongly than calcium smectites, so that adjustment of K+ versus Ca2+ occupation on cation exchange sites in smectites can be used to modulate the retention and release of nitroaromatics. We suggest that this modulation can be used to advantageously manage the bioavailability and toxicity of NACs during bioremedation. We have measured the toxicity of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) to duckweed grown in smectite suspensions and utilized Ca2+/K+ exchange to retain or release 2,4-DNT. Retention by potassium smectite reduced bioavailability and hence toxicity to duckweed. Addition of Ca2+ to replace K+ by ion exchange released adsorbed 2,4-DNT, which is toxic to duckweed. So smectites can be used to sequester or release 2,4-DNT predictably and provide means to control bioavailability and environmental toxicity.