Abstract: The invention relates to a method for removing inorganic compounds from a section of soil. By regulating an electric voltage applied between two or more electrodes (1, 2) disposed in the section of soil (3) to values equal or below the electrokinetic point (61), inorganic compounds are electrochemically modified in situ in such a manner that they are electrokinetically mobilized and can be directly deposited on the electrodes (1, 2). According to the invention, the electrokinetic point (61) is adjusted and reached by applying a voltage to the electrodes (1, 2) and controlling it, once, after passing a first current/voltage zone (62) of a first gradient, a second current/voltage zone (63) of a second gradient that is smaller than the first gradient is reached.

Abstract: A method of removing harmful substances, particularly in the region of the earth's surface, wherewith an electrical voltage is applied to electrodes introduced into the soil. To remove the harmful substances, an electric field is established in situ by the electrical voltage, the intensity of which field is so great that harmful substances which are not electrokinetically transportable are broken up and/or degraded in place.