Abstract: Sampling devices and process are the key factors in the environmental investigation of contaminated soils. This paper compares the aspects of the contaminated soil investigation with the traditional geotechnical sampling and testing procedures. The soil and water sampling devices that are commonly used in different contaminated sites and various soil stratigraphy are reviewed and commented. The key technical procedures in the investigation are also introduced in detail in the paper. The future development of contaminated soil sampling device and drilling process are reviewed. It is concluded that the current soil and water sampling devices should be appropriately modified to meet the requirements of the contaminated soil investigations.

Key words: contaminated site, environmental site investigation, sampling device, drilling process