Solidification and stabilization refer to a group of
cleanup methods that prevent or slow the release of
harmful chemicals from wastes, such as contaminated
soil, sediment, and sludge. These methods usually do
not destroy the contaminants. Instead, they keep them
from “leaching” above safe levels into the surrounding
environment. Leaching occurs when water from rain
or other sources dissolves contaminants and carries
them downward into groundwater or over land into
lakes and streams.