How can stabilization of contaminated filter media be achieved?

Raising the pH of the contaminated filter media through the addition of a supplement like lime is effective for stabilization. Lime, which is calcium hydroxide, reacts with acidic contaminants and helps to neutralize them, leading to a more balanced environment that can facilitate the breakdown of pollutants. Increased pH can also enhance the microbial activity necessary for the remediation processes, thus improving the overall effectiveness of the treatment system.

In contrast, decreasing the pH could lead to increased solubility of certain contaminants, making them more mobile and potentially more hazardous. Freezing the media does not contribute to stabilization, as it merely temporarily halts biological activity without addressing the underlying contamination issues. Chemical neutralization that does not alter pH may not effectively promote the necessary conditions for biological processes crucial for stabilization, making it less effective than raising the pH with lime.