Search

In this study, 42 urban soil samples were collected from the city centre of Uşak to determine heavy metals concentrations, cation exchange capacity (CEC), N, P, pH, SOM (soil organic matter), and texture. The goals were to evaluate and map the concentrations of As, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Zn, assess heavy metals contamination, and identify the potential ecological risks and their sources. Various assessment methods were used to evaluate potential ecological risk of heavy metals, including geoaccumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), degree of contamination (Cdeg), potential ecological risk (RI), and pollution load index (PLI). Spatial distribution maps were created for each heavy metal concentration and assessment method. The concentrations of the selected heavy metals in Uşak ranged from 11.60 to 90.50 mg/kg for As; 31.90 to 1,455.20 mg/kg for Cr; 7.67 to 45.62 mg/kg for Cu; 0.01 to 0.22 mg/kg for Hg; 83.10 to 484.90 mg/kg for Ni; 6.72 to 97.63 mg/kg for Pb; 0.06 to 0.34 mg/kg for Cd; and 19.90 to 89.30 mg/kg for Zn. The CEC values range from 2 to 15% with an average of 7%. N values vary between 0.01 to 0.05%. The soil pH values range from 7.0 to 8.5, with a mean of 7.9. SOM concentrations in the studied soils ranged from 1.8 to 2.7%, with an average of 2.2%. When compared to soil averages of the world, the results indicate that the As, Cr, and Ni concentrations were much greater. Igeo values of Ni and As indicate moderate to heavy contamination in the eastern part of the Uşak. EF values of As show a very high enrichment in the eastern, and northern parts of Uşak. Cdeg calculations show a moderate degree of contamination in the southeastern part of the city. The RI values reveal a moderate ecological risk in the eastern parts of the cıty. The PLI calculations indicate unpolluted to moderately polluted soils in most parts of Uşak. The presence of industrial sites in the east, and a leather tanning industrial site in the southeast validate that the source of the heavy metals contamination is anthropogenic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive levels of heavy metals in soil can significantly impact human health and ecological safety. Evaluating heavy metal pollution and identifying its sources are crucial for environmental management. This study investigates the status of heavy metal pollution in a southeastern region of China and aims to identify its sources using data from the first national soil pollution survey, which includes 282 sampling points. Indicators such as the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), the potential ecological risk index (RI), the hazard index (HI), and the total lifetime cancer risk (TLCR) were utilized to assess contamination levels. Geographic information systems (GIS), positive matrix factorization (PMF) receptor modeling, cluster analysis (ClusA) and human health risk assessments were integrated to analyze the sources of heavy metals. The results indicate that agricultural pollution sources have a minor impact on overall heavy metal contamination, with low ecological risk levels in the eastern and western regions. In contrast, the central region exhibited moderate risk, with areas of extremely high risk distributed across the central-west and central-south regions. PMF analysis identified pollution sources including natural origins, coal combustion, industrial emissions, and traffic, with contributions of 17.62%, 18.50%, 28.35%, and 35.56%, respectively. Overall, the carcinogenic risk in the study area is not high. Targeted recommendations were made in response to the pollution situation in the study area. This research enhances our understanding of heavy metal pollution in the soil of the study area and provides a reference for pollution source delineation in other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals pose significant threats to human health, particularly children. This study aimed to assess heavy metal pollution in children's playgrounds using surface dust as an indicator and to ascertain the associated exposure levels and health risks. A total of one hundred twenty dust samples were collected from the surface of playground toys in areas surrounding the cement factory in Bursa, Türkiye, on precipitation-free days. The heavy metal content of the samples was analyzed using ICP-MS. The average total concentration of heavy metals ranged from 2401 to 6832 mg/kg across the sampling sites, with the highest values observed at PG4, PG3, PG2, and PG1, respectively. The most commonly detected heavy metals in the samples included Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, As, and Ni. Statistical analysis revealed significant positive correlations (p < 0.01) among Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Pb, As, and Ni, with Cu and Pb also showing correlation (p < 0.05). PCA analysis identified three principal components explaining 79.905% of the total variance. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index values for heavy metals were found to be below the safe threshold (HQ < 1). Quantitative techniques such as the geoaccumulation index and enrichment factor are used to determine pollution levels at the sampling sites. Overall, the results indicate that cement factories significantly contribute to heavy metal pollution, with observed values varying based on proximity to the emission source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to determine the concentrations, distribution, and fate of potentially toxic elements [lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd)] in sediments of a hydropower plant water reservoir located in the Brazilian Cerrado biome (used as system model). The purpose of this study was achieved with an analysis of the level of contamination based on the geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and factor contamination (FC) and comparisons with values established by environmental legislation. The physical–chemical–biological properties of sediment samples, the distribution, and the fate of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the basin of the stream studied were also investigated using Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and principal component analysis (PCA). Cu, Hg, and Cd concentrations in the sediment samples from most of the points analyzed were above level II of the categorization stipulated in environmental legislation, characterizing sediments of poor quality. Moreover, Igeo and FC values indicated potential pollution of the water reservoir sediment by Cd. Concentrations of Cd exceeding 0.34 mg kg−1 surpassed the reference values for water quality established by Conama Resolution No. 454/2012, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing sediment quality monitoring strategies. Hence, the study water reservoir was classified as being moderately to extremely polluted due to the fate of potentially toxic metals in the sediment samples. Frequent monitoring of the sediment quality in watersheds with hydropower plants is indispensable for the assessment of water resources, considering the importance of the water supply and power generation for the population. Moreover, water contaminated by PTEs poses potential risks to river basins, as well as to human and animal health. The results of this work can assist in the investigation of other water reservoirs around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perpetually intensifying soil contamination is an anthropogenic phenomena, which is a global environmental concern. An important tool for the evaluation of contamination levels and ecosystem health is the assessment of soil quality, which can be used to evaluate prospective ecological threats to both organisms and the environment. The aim of this study was to quantify the soil heavy metal pollution levels to assess the site quality of three wildlife parks in different climatic zones of Punjab, Pakistan, where several wild animals were housed for the purpose of conservation. A robust method for calculation, absolute deviation from median (median ± (2 × MAD)), was used to compute geochemical background value of each heavy metal. Single (geoaccumulation index – Igeo and enrichment factor – EF) and complex (pollution load index (PLI)) indices were used to recognize whether the detected heavy metals Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd, Co, Mn and Ni levels in the soil are consequences of anthropogenic or natural sources. In comparison between sites, the heavy metal enrichment for Pb, Cr, Cd and Zn was recorded high at Jallo Forest and Wildlife Park succeeded by Murree Wildlife Park and Bahawalnagar Wildlife Park. Pb, Zn, Cd and Cr showed high EF values at Jallo Forest and Wildlife Park while Igeo values of Pb, Cr, Cd, Mn and Zn were greater at Murree Wildlife Park indicating high heavy metal geoaccumulation. The highest heavy metal contamination site with reference to soil quality was Murree Wildlife Park (PLI = 1.12), which was followed by Jallo Forest and Wildlife Park and Bahawalnagar Wildlife Park with PLI values 1.05 and 0.80, respectively. Analysis by hierarchical clustering (HCA) showed high degree of variation between heavy metal concentrations at all sites with the exception of Pb and Zn. As documented from the present study, significant levels of enrichment and contamination with heavy metals were recorded for soils of selected sites. Further assessment is mandatory because the chosen study sites were situated in climatically diverse areas with reference to environmental factors, topography, climatic condition and their impact on the accumulation patterns in soil as well as in animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal pollution of the bottom sediments in the Northern Caspian Sea region was assessed for the period from 2012 to 2021. The concentrations and pollution levels of heavy metals were determined using the standard indices as part of the industrial environmental monitoring at the license site in the northern part of the Caspian Sea. Based on the concentrations of all identified metals (zinc, copper, lead, cadmium, nickel, iron, and manganese), significant spatial and temporal variations were observed. The values obtained did not exceed those of international sediment quality standards, thus suggesting that the studied bottom sediments were only slightly polluted by heavy metals. However, certain areas showed high levels of pollution, such as the northwestern area with the elevated iron levels and the central area with the maximum lead and cadmium concentrations. The statistical analysis of geochemical parameters of the bottom sediments revealed distinct patterns in the distribution of heavy metals.

To understand the source, distribution and degree of pollution of heavy metals in the soil around a plateau municipal solid waste incineration plant, a municipal solid waste incineration plant in Lhasa was taken as the research object in this study. The soil surrounding the facility was sampled, and the contents of heavy metals, including Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni, Cd, As, and Hg, in the soil were analyzed. Then, heavy metal pollution and risk assessments were conducted using the geoaccumulation index method, Nemerow index method, and potential ecological risk index method. Additionally, correlation and principal component analysis were used to determine the correlation between heavy metals in the soil and their sources of pollution. The results showed that based on the Nemerow comprehensive pollution index, the soil surrounding the incineration plant generally had a low level of pollution. Through the analysis of individual potential ecological risk indices, it was found that only the heavy metal Cd presented moderate potential risks, while the other seven heavy metals had mild potential risks. The average value of the total potential risk coefficient was 107.31, which was less than 150, indicating that there was a slight potential risk associated with the soil around the incineration plant. There was significant correlation between six heavy metals, namely, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni, and Cd, in the soil around the incineration plant. Their pollution sources were similar, and their levels tended to be affected by the incineration plant. However, there was no significant correlation between the heavy metals As and Hg and the other six heavy metals. These two heavy metals had independent sources of pollution but were also influenced by human activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the distribution of heavy metals in agricultural soils in the vicinity of three large mining landfills of the Kizhnica mine in the Republic of Kosovo. The mining sector is one of the most important sectors of Kosovo's economic development, and the Kizhnica mine is one of the most important ore producers in Kosovo. Besides the positive aspects, the development of production also has some negative side effects, such as the generation of industrial waste and the possible contamination of surrounding areas, including agricultural land. Therefore, ten sampling sites were selected in the vicinity of the Kizhnica mine. These sites were characterized and assessed as the most important due to the anthropogenic impact of mineral processing and open-tailing waste deposits in Kizhnica. The concentration of Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Cd, Ni, Mn and Sb in the selected samples was determined using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry. The data obtained were used to create geochemical maps and calculate the contamination factor, pollution load index and geoaccumulation index. Cluster analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient and air spatial distribution patterns using the air dispersion model were used to evaluate within the area. The results showed that heavy metal levels are influenced by the anthropogenic nature of pollution, confirming a current ecological threat from mining activities in the region. In order to improve waste management, reduce the hazardous impacts of mining and contribute to the sustainable development of the region, the potential reuse of the deposited waste material in the construction industry is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy-metal contamination in river and ocean is a critical environmental issue that endangers marine ecosystems and human health. Therefore, conducting extensive research to devise effective mitigation measures is imperative. Sediment samples were taken randomly throughout the study area. Analysis was done to determine the presence of differentmetals, including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, lead, andmanganese. The assessment of different pollution levels was done by using various pollution indicators including "geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), enrichment factor (EF)" for accuracy. The Igeo measurement for Cd indicated varying pollution, ranging from moderate to significantly polluted, while Mn revealed no contamination. Elements such as Ni, Cr, Cu, andZn showedamoderatelevel of contamination. The contamination factor values exhibited a range of 0.436 (Pb) to 7.637 (Cd), with average values spanning from 0.9176 (Mn) to 4.9714 (Cd), suggesting significant regional variation. EF exhibits a pattern of contamination comparable to that of Igeo. The noncarcinogenic risk associated with exposure to Cd and As exceeded the higher limit (HI > 1) for children and adults. Furthermore, the carcinogenic risk presented by pollutants such as copper (Cu), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), cadmium(Cd), and chromium (Cr) was found to exceed the limits in children. In adults, only arsenic (As) and copper (Cu) were shown to represent a higher risk of cancer than the limit of 10-4. The PCA analysis revealed that two (PCs) accounted for more than 65% of the total variance in the River Ravi, as determined by eigenvalues greater than 1. This study underscores the importance of the ongoing monitoring and management of heavy-metal pollution to ensure sustainable marine ecosystem development and public health protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil pollution by heavy metals is a frequently encountered issue at many hazardous waste sites. Mining operations generate a significant volume of inert materials and waste, which are then deposited on the surface. The abandoned mine of Sidi Kambar could pose a major problem due to the potentially high concentrations of potentially toxic elements present in its discharges. To assess the level of soil contamination near the abandoned Pb-Zn mine in Sidi Kambar, heavy metal concentrations were determined in soil samples taken from the Essouk River. The results of the monitoring of the spatial evolution of metal trace elements (Zn, Pb, and Fe) during the month of February 2023 in the soil of this watercourse show that metal content is growing in the order: Pb > Zn > Fe. They also exhibit variations across the ten (10) study stations, ranging from 102.7 to 141.2 for Zn, 1918.8 to 3150.4 for Fe, and 115.5 to 134.5 for Pb. The degree and sources of contamination were determined by calculating metal contamination indices: the geoaccumulation index, the contamination factor, the degree of contamination, and the pollution load index. High levels of contamination have been observed around spills of mining waste, resulting in high levels of contamination. However, no cases of extremely high or ultra-high contamination were found in the mining fields of the studied area. Therefore, human activities could be the main factor in abandoned Pb/Zn mining areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of iron ore could cause heavy metals pollution in the soils, which threatens the ecosystem and human health. In this study, soil, stream sediment, tailings, rock, and atmospheric deposition samples were collected from an iron mine in Baotou City. The concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn, Al2O3, CaO, K2O, MgO, Na2O, SiO2, and Fe2O3, as well as the mineral composition and heavy metal speciation of the samples, were analyzed for pollution assessment and source identification of heavy metals. The results reveal that the concentration of Cu in the soils was significantly higher than the background value, and an unpolluted to moderately polluted state was the main pollution level. By analyzing the relationship between Cu/Al2O3 and CaO in different samples, as well as the characteristics of the chemical index of alteration (CIA), mineral composition, and the chemical speciation of Cu in soils and profiles, the results suggest that tailings were the source of Cu pollution in soils. The distribution characteristics of Cu and CaO in stream sediments indicated that hydraulic transport may be one of the main migration pathways. In addition, wind transport may also be a pathway of migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In northern Chile, economic activities related to mining and thermoelectric energy have existed in the city of Tocopilla since the early 1900s and metal concentrations in soils have likely been altered by historic anthropogenic activities. To assess the concentrations of Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Co, and Cr in urban soils of Tocopilla, a total of 70 superficial (2 cm) and 70 deep (20 cm) soil samples were collected in 2014. Furthermore, to analyze concentration changes in soils over time, 18 superficial (5 cm) samples were collected in 2020–2021. A numerical evaluation (geoaccumulation index, and enrichment factor), principal component analysis, and spatial distribution approach were applied to infer geogenic and anthropogenic influence on the concentrations of these elements. The main conclusions of this research indicate that urban soils of Tocopilla contain geogenic Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Co and Cr. However, elevated concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Pb cannot be attributed to a geogenic origin alone, as a proportion of their enrichment is considered to be anthropogenically sourced. The contamination of anthropogenic elements has been found to be related to historic copper mining and thermoelectric energy production. Furthermore, when compared to other sites globally, median concentrations of Cu (945 mg/kg in 2014 and 823 mg/kg in 2020) and Zn (305 mg/kg in 2014 and 196 mg/kg in 2020) in superficial urban soils are among the highest worldwide. Regarding 2020–2021 sampling, Zn and Pb concentrations have increased, while Cu, Cr, Co, and Ni have remained similar to the 2014 samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Klagison River in Sorong City is used by the sand mining industry to dispose of liquid waste. Consequently, turbidity and sedimentation occurred. This study aimed to analyze the water quality, heavy metal concentrations in sediments, and the relationship between the two. The sampling points were determined using the purposive sampling method. Data analysis included the pollution load index (PLI), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), and correlation analysis. The TDS value of the Klagison River ranged from 126 to 168 mg/L and turbidity range of 19.98 to 724 NTU. The analysis results pollution load index showed that the sediment with a PLI value of 0.557 was neither polluted nor lightly polluted. Index geoaccumulation showed Cr and Cu values of 100% (Igeo < 0), while Mn and Fe were 80% unpolluted (Igeo < 0) and 20% unpolluted or mildly polluted (0 < Igeo < 2). The concentrations of Cr, Mn, and Fe had a negative correlation with the water quality parameters of TDS and turbidity. The concentration of Cu has a positive correlation with the water quality parameters, TDS, and turbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal sewage sludge is the major by-product generated in the wastewater treatment process with reuse potential, but the presence of heavy metals (HMs) can be a limiting factor, which is why more detailed studies on their potential risks to the environment are necessary. In this research, the concentrations of eight HMs in sewage sludge for agricultural purposes from 11 municipal wastewater treatment plants of the Metropolitan Area of Lima-Callao were evaluated, during the years 2015, 2017 and 2020. In order to determine pollution levels, ecological risk, risk to human health and identify the main sources of contamination, the geoaccumulation index, the potential ecological risk index, the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk index, and multivariate statistical techniques (correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA)) were applied. The results showed high levels of pollution by Cu and Zn, and low levels of As. Likewise, a moderate to very high ecological risk was recorded, with Cd and Cu being the ones with the highest potential of ecological risk, restraining the use of sewage sludge for agriculture. Considering the economic activities present in the study area, the PCA and the HCA revealed that contamination by HMs derived mainly from industrial, commercial, and domestic activities; however, service activities also contributed to the concentrations of HMs. Finally, the study identified Cd and Cu as the metals of greatest concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy-metal contamination in river and ocean is a critical environmental issue that endangers marine ecosystems and human health. Therefore, conducting extensive research to devise effective mitigation measures is imperative. Sediment samples were taken randomly throughout the study area. Analysis was done to determine the presence of different metals, including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, lead, and manganese. The assessment of different pollution levels was done by using various pollution indicators including “geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), enrichment factor (EF)” for accuracy. The Igeo measurement for Cd indicated varying pollution, ranging from moderate to significantly polluted, while Mn revealed no contamination. Elements such as Ni, Cr, Cu, and Zn showed a moderate level of contamination. The contamination factor values exhibited a range of 0.436 (Pb) to 7.637 (Cd), with average values spanning from 0.9176 (Mn) to 4.9714 (Cd), suggesting significant regional variation. EF exhibits a pattern of contamination comparable to that of Igeo. The noncarcinogenic risk associated with exposure to Cd and As exceeded the higher limit (HI > 1) for children and adults. Furthermore, the carcinogenic risk presented by pollutants such as copper (Cu), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) was found to exceed the limits in children. In adults, only arsenic (As) and copper (Cu) were shown to represent a higher risk of cancer than the limit of 10−4. The PCA analysis revealed that two (PCs) accounted for more than 65% of the total variance in the River Ravi, as determined by eigenvalues greater than 1. This study underscores the importance of the ongoing monitoring and management of heavy-metal pollution to ensure sustainable marine ecosystem development and public health protection.

Copyright of Iraqi National Journal of Earth Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of anaerobically stabilized sewage sludge (SS) converted into 90% dryness granules at different doses of control, 3% SS, 6% SS, and 9% SS on elemental composition of Festuca arundinacea Schreb. and physicochemical properties of soil. Color measurements were made with the CIE L* a* b* method unit; the highest color (4.10) and the highest coating score (5.7) were calculated for the 6% SS treatment. The highest biomass (9.11 g) was obtained from the 3% SS and the lowest (7.67 g) from the 9% SS dose. Plant height measurements were listed as follows: 3% SS (9.5 cm) > 6% SS (8.8 cm) > control (8.7 cm) > 9% SS (8.1 cm). Average bioaccumulation factor for the present heavy metals were ordered as: Cd (0.542) > Hg (0.452) > Cr (0.448) > Ni (0.246) > Pb (0.076). The lowest geoaccumulation index (Igeo) was obtained in Cr (-1.35) and the highest value in Cd (1.69). Available P, K, Ca, Mg were analyzed with ammonium acetate extraction method, and Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn in the soil extracted with DTPA were determined. In the soil samples, total N (0.180%) and available elements (mg kg-1) P (101.393), Ca (6502.570), Mg (609.433), Na (259.44), Fe (13.61), Cu (4.05), Zn (17.76), and B (1.00) were determined at high values in the 9% SS application. Heavy metals (mg kg-1) were extracted with aqua regia. Nickel (48.87), Pb (26.83), Cd (0.97), and Hg (153.12 µg kg-1) were determined at high values in the 9% SS application. Plant nutrients in the plant samples were extracted from acid digestion, and N (3.93%), P (0.51%), Mg (0.59%), Ca (1.77%), Zn (127 mg kg-1), and B (15 mg kg-1) were determined at high values in the 9% SS application. Heavy metals' (Ni, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Hg) content toxic effects were not observed in the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by Thailand's Bio-Circular Green Economy strategy, this study explores industrial waste utilization as a solution to mitigate the impacts of climate change and economic insecurity. This study involved interviews with farmers and field sampling across 131 sugarcane plantations, primarily in four districts in Kanchanaburi, western Thailand. The investigation aimed to assess heavy metal levels (As, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Cd, Hg) in the plantation soils and their accumulations in soils and biomass under various agricultural practices, including the uses of filter cake and vinasse (industrial wastes from sugar–ethanol industries). Spatial analysis showed that As often exceeded national soil-quality standards for agriculture (25 mg kg−1). The Cd, As, and Zn tended to accumulate at a high level in most soils, whereas Pb accumulated locally. Factors such as clay content, soil alkalinity (for As and Mn), soil organic matters (As, Mn, and Hg), and no/minimum tillage (Zn and Cd) promoted the metal accumulation. Factor analysis showed that natural geochemical processes govern the spatial variations of the metals. The application of filter cake led to soils with elevated Cr, Fe, As, Cd, and Mn content and a clayey organic-rich composition, while the vinasse resulted in soils with higher levels of Zn, Cu, Fe, and clayey saline. The bioconcentration factors (BCF) revealed that sugarcane generally accumulated Hg (BCF ~2.32−35.72), whereas Cu (2.67) and As (1.04) tended to accumulate in sandy-soil farmlands. The waste utilization, however, neither contributed significantly to the concern levels of soil metals nor enhanced the bioconcentration of the soil metals into the sugarcane biomass. Utilizing the waste as fertilizer could benefit cane yield, but further studies should focus on proper fertilization rates and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at investigating pollution sources and indicators in three study sites, namely, an industrial town (It), landfill (Lf), and wastewater treatment plant (WTP) in the vicinity of Ilam city, west of Iran. To achieve this objective, the sampling was performed from the topsoil (0–10 cm) of three sites (It, Lf, and WTP) with pollution potential. Some soil physico-chemical properties and total concentration of HMs including Cd, Pb, Ni, Cr, and Co, pollution indicators and sources of pollution were evaluated by statistical analysis. The results of the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), contamination factor (CF), and pollution load index (PLI) showed that the studied areas were contaminated with HMs. The highest average of Cd and Pb were 1.45 and 440.19 mg kg–1, respectively, in the Lf. Whereas, the highest average of Ni and Cr were 106.53 and 43.50 mg kg–1, respectively, in the IT, while the highest average of Co was 81.69 mg kg–1 in the WTP. According to the results of the principal components analysis (PCA) and clustering, a small part of the Pb, Ni, and Co amounts in the soils had the natural origin, while the results confirmed that a significant proportion of Pb, Cd, and Cr concentrations associated with human-caused hazards. Moreover, all areas (especially Lf and WTP sites) were highly contaminated with Cd. Due to the higher mobility of Cd and its human health hazards, this metal should be given more attention in the study sites of Ilam city. In general, based on our results, more paying attention needs to be considered by decision-makers and stakeholders to manage and control pollution production sources in the soils of the study sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important effluents in Guadiana Valley, Durango is El Tunal River, mostly used for agricultural and livestock supply. This river has been polluted by agricultural activity and wastewater discharges. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the current quality of water and agricultural soil near the river, to estimate the environmental situation of the agricultural sector and its main pollution sources. Hence, a total of 24 soil and five water samples were taken, analysing parameters of organic matter, pH, nutrients, and heavy metals(loid)s (As, Cd, Pb, Zn) in five agricultural areas. The randomised experimental design showed significant variations in soil (p < 0.05) of organic matter, nitrogen, As, and Pb between sampling points, confirming suitable conditions for agriculture. Although contamination by heavy metal(loid)s exists, it is below permitted levels. In contrast, the physicochemical quality of the water indicated high levels of phosphates, total dissolved solids, and total coliforms, mainly in the nearest site of a wastewater treatment plant, thus the quality of the water is not suitable for consumption and irrigation for sensitive crops. Nevertheless, rainfall contributes to improve the quality of the river by diluting pollutants. Moreover, constant use of this water might represent a risk to human health and agriculture as it could transport elements to crops or soil, becoming a severe environmental problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the degree of contamination of bottom sediments from two water reservoirs, Rejów and Wojciechów, with heavy metals based on geochemical criteria. These reservoirs differ in terms of their lifetime, capacity, and the size and land use of the catchment area. The sediment samples were analyzed for group of heavy metals (HM) including cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe). Additionally, the pH, particle size distribution of the sediments was examined and the content of organic matter expressed as losses on ignition (LOI), total content of nitrogen and phosphorus, TN and TP, respectively were determined. The degree of contamination of the sediments with selected HM was assessed using the enrichment factor, geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and potential ecological risk index. Analysis showed that the sediments from two reservoirs were characterized by high variability in both the content of HM and their contamination index, which may be related to the source of the elements, as well as with the development of the catchment areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of atmospheric heavy metal deposition in University of Lagos, Akoka campus was investigated using the moss Dicranum scorparium Hedw. Moss samples were collected from unplastered perimeter walls and rock surfaces at ten sampling sites labeled AJ: UBA Park (A), Ransome Kuti (B). Makama Hall (C), Faculty of Law (D), Moremi Car Park (E), Medical Centre (F), Ozoluwa BQs (G), High Rise Buildings (H), Honors Hall (I), Lagoon Front (J). A control sampling was done at First Estate, Amuwo-Odofin LGA. The concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) Perkin Elmer AA 800. The results obtained confirmed the presence of heavy metal in this order Zn > Pb > Cd > Cu > Ni. The concentration of Zn, Cd and Pb were greater than the FME and UNEP threshold limiting values. The analysis of the anthropogenic influence of the pollutants on the environment revealed that Zn (4.24mg/L) despite its highest abundance is a moderate contaminant in the study locations. Contamination factor (CF) suggests that locations B, D, F, G and J are seriously contaminated (C5) while locations A, C, E, H, and I are extremely contaminated (C6). The index of geo-accumulation revealed that all the studied locations are in the Igeo7 category indicating extremely pollution with the assayed metals. The difference in the occurrence of anthropogenic activities was seen to be the major factor responsible for the variations in the concentration of heavy metals accumulated by the mosses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Tea Science is the property of Journal of Tea Science Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Urban surface deposited sediments (USDS) are unique indicators of local pollution that pose a potential threat to the living environment and human health. Ekaterinburg is a highly populated metropolitan area in Russia with rapid urbanization and industrialization activities. In Ekaterinburg's residential areas, about 35, 12, and 16 samples are represented by green zones, roads, driveways, and sidewalks, respectively. The total concentrations of heavy metals was detected using a chemical analyzer inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Zn, Sn, Sb, and Pb have the highest concentrations in the green zone, while V, Fe, Co, and Cu represent the utmost values on roads. Moreover, Mn and Ni are the prevailing metals in the fine sand fraction of driveways along with sidewalks. Broadly, the high pollution in the studied zones is generated by anthropogenic activities and traffic emissions. The potential ecological risk (RI) was observed in high risk (IR > 600), even though the results of all heavy metals reveal no adverse health effects from the considered noncarcinogenic metal for adults and children by different exposure pathways except the children's exposure to Co in case of the dermal contact, where the HI values of Co for children in the studied zones are higher than the proposed level (> 1). In all urban zones, the total carcinogenic risk (TLCR) values are predicted as a high potential inhalation exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymetallic ore processing plants are serious sources of heavy metal pollution. The present study examined the degree of pollution of surface soils with the metals zinc, cadmium, lead, and copper in the single-industry town of Kentau, Kazakhstan, where an enterprise for the processing of lead–zinc ore has been operating for a long time. This enterprise ceased operations in 1994, and this study may be of interest in terms of assessing the current ecological state of urban soils after a 27-year period of possible soil self-cleaning processes. The study showed that the surface soils of Kentau retain fairly high concentrations of metals. The maximum detected concentrations of zinc, cadmium, lead, and copper were 592 mg/kg, 1.651 mg/kg, 462 mg/kg, and 82.5 mg/kg, respectively. According to the classification of the geoaccumulation index, the soils of the town belong to pollution classes II, III, and IV with moderate and strong pollution. The calculated potential ecological risk factor indicates that cadmium poses a considerable potential ecological risk, while lead showed a moderate ecological risk. In general, according to the obtained values of potential ecological risk factors, metals can be arranged in the following order: Cd > Pb > Zn > Cu. In this study, a five-step sequential extraction procedure by the method of A. Tessier was used, and the mobility factors of metals were calculated. Based on the data obtained, it was found that cadmium and lead have the highest mobility and, consequently, availability for biota in modern conditions, which may pose a potential risk to public health in the town. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the accumulation influence of heavy metals by industrial activities, the cultivated soils around different industrial areas were sampled and analyzed. The results of the analysis of the 10 heavy metal concentrations in the soil samples were Mn > Zn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Pb > As > Sn > Cd > Hg, with the average concentrations of all heavy metals exceeding the environment background values. The Kriging spatial interpolation method showed that heavy metal hotspots were concentrated in sample collection sites closer to coal-fired thermal power plants, gangue hills and coal transport traffic sections. Almost all elements have different levels of Igeo contamination, mostly concentrated at the lightmoderate level, and Cu, Zn, Cd and Sn mainly covered four levels from non-pollution to moderatestrong pollution levels. The percentages of EF exceedance points for heavy metals Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Sn, Hg and Pb were 57%, 65%, 87%, 70%, 96%, 87%, 100%, 26% and 26%, respectively. PC1 is contributed by Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, As and Cd accounting for 45.5%, and may be traffic and vehicle emission source; and PC2 is explained by Mn, As, Sn and Pb representing 19.5%, and could be natural source; and PC3 is dominated by Hg for 13% affected by coalfired generation activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the level of heavy metal contamination in the spoil heaps of the former Ain Aouda mine (Taza). In this regard, solid samples of the study area were sampled. The set of analyses carried out have detected the presence of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), arsenic (As) and nickel (Ni) that remain in these metal discharges. The calculation of contamination/pollution indices: the Geo Accumulation Index (Igeo), the Enrichment Factor (EF) and the Pollution Index (IP) were used to predict the extent of heavy metal contamination. The results of this study suggest that the spoil heaps reveal polymetallic contaminations allowing the trace metal elements to be classified in the following order Zn ˃ Pb ˃ As ˃ Cu > Ni. Knowing well that the alteration and erosion of this stock of mine waste could contribute to the degradation of the natural environment by these elements that are present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on spatial distribution and potential sources of heavy metals in agricultural lands is very important for human health and food safety. In this study, pollution degree of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) in Yüksekova Plain, located on the border in the southeastern part of Turkey, was evaluated by geoaccumulation index (Igeo), modified contamination factor (mCdeg), and Nemerow pollution index (PINemerow) combined with spatial autocorrelation using deep learning algorithms. A total of 304 soil samples were collected from two different depths (0–20 and 20–40 cm) in the study area, which covered 17.5 thousand ha land. Covariates were determined for spatial distribution models of Pb, Cd, and Ni by factor analysis (FA). Spatial distribution models for surface soils were developed using pedovariables (silt, sand, clay lime, organic matter, electrical conductivity, pH, Ca, and Na) determined by the FA and Igeo and mCdeg values by artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models. The estimation success of models for different depths was assessed by root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute percent error (MAPE), and Taylor diagrams. The RMSE and MAPE values showed a strong correlation between heavy metal contents and the covariates. The RMSE values of ANN-Ni0-20, ANN-Ni20-40, ANN-Pb0-20, ANN-Cd0-20, and ANN-Cd20-40 models (0.01240, 0.07257, 0.0039, 0.00045, 0.00044, and 0.04607, respectively) confirmed the success of the models. Likewise, the MAPE values between 0.2 and 8.5% indicated that all models were very good predictors. In addition, the Taylor diagrams showed that the estimation performance of ANFIS and ANN models are compatible. The IgeoNi and IgeoPb values in both models at both depths indicated that strongly to extremely polluted (4–5) areas are quite high in the study area, while the IgeoCd values revealed that unpolluted areas are widespread. The mCdeg index value showed a moderate to high contamination at the first depth, while very high contamination at the second depth in most of the study area. Spatial distribution of PINemerow revealed that moderate pollution (2–3) is common in both soil depths of the study area. The PINemerow of subsurface layer was between 0.91 and 1 (warning limit class) in a small part of the study area. The results showed that vertical mobility of heavy metals is closely related to pedovariables. In addition, the ANN and ANFIS models are capable of exhibiting the heterogeneity in the spatial distribution pattern of high variation in the data. Thus, the locations with extreme contamination have been accurately determined. The pollution indices calculated considering the commonly used international reference values revealed that heavy metal pollution in some part of the study area reached the detrimental levels for human health and food safety. The results suggested that the pollution indices were more successful than simple heavy metal concentrations in interpreting the pollution risk levels. High-resolution spatial information reported in this study can help policy makers and authorities to reduce heavy metal emissions of pollutants or, if possible, to eliminate the pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Spanish colonial era, ships frequently transported mercury across the Atlantic to the New World to be used in gold mining. As many of those eventually sank, shipwrecks may represent a local source of mercury contamination in the marine environment. In this context, evaluating mercury contamination in coastal sediments and mercury magnification in marine food webs is crucial for understanding mercury dynamics and estimating exposure to marine life in locations where shipwrecks occurred. This study investigated mercury concentration present in coastal sediments and biota from three distinct groups: macroalgae (Asparagopsis armata and Ulva lactuca), gastropods (Littorina striata and Patella candei gomesii) and crustaceans (Palaemon elegans and Pachygrapsus marmoratus) collected in the Azores Archipelago, Portugal (one site near a 16th-century shipwreck and others in locations further away). Mercury analyses indicated that the sediments and species from the shipwreck area had significantly higher mercury levels than the other areas. Fine sediments showed values above those established in sediment quality guidelines; however, considering the mercury concentration of the total sediment fraction, adverse biological effects are not expected to occur. Moreover, increased mercury concentration from primary producers to consumers reinforced the biomagnification potential of this metal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landasan Ulin is a center for vegetable production, and it has an important role in producing vegetables for the city of Banjarbaru. Agricultural soil in this study was assessed for heavy metal contamination using the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (Cf i), the degree of contamination (Cd), the degree of modified contamination (mCd), and the Pollution Load Index (PLI) as well as magnetic susceptibility. Samples were collected from topsoil and analyzed using magnetic susceptibility and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The average concentration of heavy metals in the sampling area A is Fe>Zn>Mn>Cu>Hg, and the area B is Fe>Mn>Zn>Cu>Hg. Magnetic susceptibility values in area A is higher than in area B and the value of magnetic susceptibility can be used as a proxy for monitoring heavy metal concentrations, especially Zn in this area. Zn and Cu exceeded the threshold set by the Indonesian Standards Institute. Igeo results show that the research area is moderately contaminated with Cu, Zn, and Hg. According to Cf i, the soil was classified as low contaminated with Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Hg, as well as Cd and mCd. The PLI results show that in both area, drastic corrective action is not required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of metallic (Cd, Ni, Fe, Pb, Cu) contamination in the sampled sediments of five stations (S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5) from Woji creek bed between August and October 2019 was appraised using pollution load index (PLI), contamination factor (CF) and geoaccumulation index (Igeo). Results from the sediment analysis showed that Cd was not detected in stations 1, 3 and 5 in September, however, there was a high concentration of Cd in station 3 in October (43.590 ± 2.013 mg/kg). The concentration of Ni was highest in station 4 in August (247.682 ± 6.026 mg/kg). The mean spatial concentration of Pb ranged from 57.774 ± 75.647 mg/kg in October to 344.153 ± 112.184 mg/kg in August. Spatially, the highest concentration of Fe was measured in August (23.945 ± 17.828 mg/kg). Station 2 had the lowest concentration of Fe in the sediment temporally (5.667 ± 6.381 mg/kg) while station 3 had the highest concentration (19.496 ± 24.090 mg/kg); 37.188 ± 27.821 mg/kg (station 3) was the highest mean temporal concentration Cu, while station 2 had the lowest mean concentration of Cu (0.471 ± 0.358 mg/kg).The PLI values were in the trend: S3 (2.58 x 1015) >S4 (5.29 x 1014) > S1 (3.52 x 1014) > S5 (3.71 x 1013) > S2 (4.64 x 1012).These results indicated that the highest concentration of studied metals was found in S3 (except for Ni in S4), which emphasised the possible input of metallic matter into the sediment from the various operations along the creek connected with the disposal of metallic particulate wastes. All the metals present in the sampled sediments (except for Cu in S2) had concentrations between threshold effect level (TEL) and probable effect levels (PEL), which suggests the influence of unfavourable biological processes taking place from time to time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, heavy metal pollution in soils has become a serious threat to many communities in the developing countries due to rapid urbanisation and industrialisation, thereby exposing different populations to adverse ecological and health risks. The purpose of this study was to assess the pollution status, pollution sources, ecological and human health risks of heavy metals in industrial soils from the densely populated Ajao area, southwestern Nigeria. Several numerical models revealed low extent of heavy metal pollution in the industrial soils. Chemometric analysis identified anthropogenic inputs as the major sources of pollution in the soils. Ecological risk index showed that all the analysed heavy metals pose low ecological risks. Daily exposure assessment for ingestion, dermal contact and inhalation showed that children are more exposed than the adult population. Hazard index revealed that most of the samples pose low-high chronic risks due to ingestion by adults. However, all the samples were observed to pose medium-high chronic health risks due to ingestion by children. Except Cd, all the carcinogens pose negligible cancer risk due to ingestion by the adult population; but Ni, Cr and Cd pose significant cancer risk to children. Furthermore, Ni and Cd tend to pose high lifetime cancer risk (LCR) to adults. However, Ni, Cr and Cd pose high LCR to the children population. Therefore, emphasis should be placed on Ni, Cr and Cd in any attempt to halt or mitigate further heavy metal pollution in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess the quality of agricultural soils, which accumulate additional amounts of heavy metals from fertilization and modify their bioavailability, with the use of interdependencies between their biological and chemical properties conditioned by the distance from communication routes. Our results indicated that heavy metals had an impact on enzyme activity in soils and their accumulation was significantly related to the distance from the edge of the road, location of sampling sites, date of soil sampling, and years of research. It was found that the greatest amounts of zinc, cadmium, lead, and copper were accumulated at a distance of 5–20 m from the edge of the road. The highest enrichment factor and geoaccumulation index values were recorded for Pb, followed by Zn, Cu, and Cd. Principal component analysis and regression models showed that the activities of phosphatase and dehydrogenases seem to be the best bioindicators of contamination of roadside soils used for agricultural purposes. Since their activity is related to soil's organic carbon content, inputs of organic fertilizers and crop residues should be ensured in the agroecosystems along roadsides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in soil and plants is a risk factor to human well-being and the environment. Soil and leaves from a traditional medicinal plant, Vachellia karroo, known as the sweet thorn plant, were assessed to determine the extent of pollution by PTEs from gold mine tailings in a case study area of Matjhabeng Local Municipality, South Africa. A risk classification tool was developed using the different indicators of pollution quantified to describe the pollution risk at each sampling site. High concentrations of copper, cadmium, lead, nickel, and zinc were measured in the soil, which exceeded the maximum permissible soil quality limits. The enrichment factor and geoaccumulation index results also confirmed heavy soil pollution by copper, nickel, and zinc, with exceptionally heavy pollution by cadmium and selenium. The PTEs in the soil were in an exchangeable form, with the sweet thorn plant accumulating lead and selenium at toxic levels, which poses a risk to the health of the local people as the plant is used for medicinal purposes. The overall pollution risk classification tool of the sampling sites showed that 17% were high-risk areas, 53% were moderate-risk areas, and 20% of the sites were low-risk areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Peruvian Amazon plain has abundant natural resources and is home to great biodiversity, which makes it an area with high economic potential. However, the use of its resources through various activities has contributed to the release of heavy metals (HMs) into its soils, generating severe pollution problems which have mainly affected the health of local populations and their ecosystems. Currently, there are no comprehensive studies that have identified the specific sources of contamination by HMs in the soils of this part of the Peruvian territory. In this sense, this research aims to identify the possible sources of contamination by HMs in the soils of the Peruvian Amazon plain to focus efforts on the establishment of adequate measures for the protection of the health of people and the ecosystem. In the present study, samples of topsoils (0–20 cm depth) and subsoils (100–150 cm depth) were collected for the analysis of 11 HMs (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, Zn, Be, and Hg) in 48 sites located in four regions of the Peruvian Amazon plain (Loreto, Amazonas, San Martín, and Ucayali), over the year 2019. The enrichment factor and geoaccumulation index were applied to assess contamination levels of HMs. The results indicated that topsoils and subsoils presented a greater enrichment by the elements Be and Pb, and were classified as moderately contaminated. Likewise, the integral analysis of these indexes together with principal component analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, correlation analysis, and coefficient of variation allowed the identification of potential sources of contamination by HMs. As a result, Fe, Co, Zn, Ni, V, and Cr were associated with natural or lithogenic sources (parent material, crude oil deposits, and organic matter decomposition). Hg was attributed to anthropogenic sources (illegal gold mining, atmospheric deposition, and vehicle emissions). Be, Pb, Cu, and Mn originated from natural sources (parent material, crude oil deposits, decomposition of organic matter, and forest fires) and anthropogenic (areas degraded by solid waste, illegal gold mining, agriculture, and hydrocarbons). These findings provide essential information to establish regulations and prevent and control HM contamination in soils of the Peruvian Amazon plain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted on some agricultural clayey soils in Kafr El-Sheikh governorate in order to explore the effect of different sources of heavy metal pollution on the type and quantity of some tested metals (Cu, Cr, Mn, Zn and Pb) in these soils. Also, to identify the distribution of these metals among the different components of tested soils. The different indicators (Ci f, Igeo and Ei f) of pollution with these elements were calculated in each soil to determine the significance of the pollution of each metal under different pollution conditions. The results of this study showed a difference in the content and type of tested metals (Cu, Cr, Mn, Zn and Pb) compared to the control (virgin soil). Consequently, the data of this study showed a difference in the values of the pollution indicators for each metal in the tested soils, affected by the different sources of pollution and amount of heavy polluting metals that reached to each soil. Likewise, the results of the chemical forms for each tested metal showed that they are concentrated in each of the following soil fractions F3 and F4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews research on phytoremediation (2002–2021), particularly for the estimation of plant efficiency and soil pollution indices, examining the extraction of metals from soil and plants growing under both artificial (spiked with specific metal) and natural conditions. From the analysis of >200 published experimental results, it was found that contamination factor and geo-accumulation index as well as translocation and bioconcentration factors are the most important soil pollution and plant efficiency metrices, respectively, which are gaining importance to assess the level of metal pollution and its transfer from soil to plant to find a better metal clean-up strategy for phytoremediation. To access the metal concentration, it was found that the most widely accepted extractants to dissolve and extract the metals from the soil and plant were HNO3 and HClO4 (mainly in 5:1; v/v or 4:1; v/v), which are used both in natural and artificial metal contamination studies. Moreover, plants such as Pteris vittata, Monochoria korsakowi, Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Poa pratensis, Ricinus communis, and Siegesbeckia orientalis can act as hyperaccumulators under both natural and artificial experiments and can be directly implemented into the fields without checking their further efficiency in phytoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhalation and/or ingestion of toxic heavy metals enriched in road dust have toxic effects on humans. From inhalation and ingestion of dust, release of readily bioavailable elements sorbed on to dust, could lead to health issues such as lung or skin cancer, kidney dysfunction, hypertension, dermal lesions, peripheral neuropathy, and vascular disease. On 49 road dust and soil samples collected in the Metro Detroit area, we analyzed a suite of trace metals in 1.5. The PI values for Cr, Ba, Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), and Selenium (Se) indicate elevated levels and for Ba, Cr, and Zn up to a moderate level. PLI values in >50% of road dusts were ≥3, indicating many sites are ‘heavily polluted’. The PLI value in Detroit road dust is higher than those reported for some other global cities including Shanghai. Observed strong correlations between Cr-Zn and Cadmium (Cd)-Silver (Ag) likely indicate a common metal source. Cluster analysis of data for Cd, Arsenic (As), Pb, and Zn appears to be distinct between different proximally related clusters, while Nickel (Ni) and Ba are potentially more distinct between property type clusters. In general, metal concentrations of industrial samples are more commonly distinct with over half of metals (≥6 of 11) differing from residential and/or soil samples. Three generalized “groups” were identified from the combination of hierarchical cluster and PCA analyses followed by varimax rotation: Group 1 characterized by Cr, Cd, Ni, Ag, Zn, and Copper (Cu); Group 2 characterized by Pb, As, Mercury (Hg), and minor Ba; and Group 3 characterized by Se. This is the first study to report all four metrics of metal pollution along with rigorous statistical analysis.

Background and Objective: Today, soil and water pollution with heavy metals is one of the major challenges around the world. The aim of this study is to investigate the contamination of soils around a lead and zinc mine. Materials and Methods: In the summer of 2019, 100 soil samples were taken from the mine vicinity and the characteristics of texture, acidity, salinity, calcium carbonate, organic matter and heavy metals chromium, cobalt, zinc, lead and cadmium were measured. Pollution indices including pollution factor (PI), enrichment coefficient (EF), geoaccumulation (Igeo), toxicity probability (MERMQ), contamination load (PLI), background enrichment (PIN), pollution security (CSI) and Nemerow index (PINemerow) ) Were calculated. Correlation between soil variables and determination of metal origin were determined using Pearson correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) analysis. Results: The average concentrations of chromium, cobalt, zinc, lead and cadmium were obtained as 92, 21.33, 453.98, 351.24 and 4.28 mg/kg, respectively. The metals pollution evaluated based on PI, EF and Igeo indices were moderate for chromium and cobalt, considerable for zinc and significant for lead and cadmium. The results of MERMQ, PLI, PIN, CSI and PINemerow indices showed high soil contamination with heavy metals. According to the PCA test, the elements lead, zinc and cadmium are in a group with high correlation with each other that are of anthropogenic origin. Chromium and cobalt with a correlation of 88% also showed the same geological origin. Conclusion: mining activities should be done with more caution and measures should be taken to reduce pollution.

Stormwater ponds can provide flood protection and efficiently treat stormwater using sedimentation. As the ponds also host aquatic biota and attract wildlife, there is a growing concern that the sediment bound pollutants negatively affect aquatic organisms and the surrounding ecosystem. In this study, we used three methods to assess the accumulation and the potential ecological risk of 13 different heavy metals and metalloids (e.g. trace elements) including both elements that are frequently monitored and some which are rarely monitored in sediment from 5 stormwater ponds located within catchments with predominately industrial activities. Ecological risk for organisms in the older ponds was observed for both commonly (e.g. Cd, Cu, Zn) and seldom (e.g. Ag, Sb) monitored trace elements. The 3 methods ranked the degree of contamination similarly. We show that methods usually used for sediment quality assessment in aquatic ecosystems can also be used for screening the potential risk of other trace elements in stormwater ponds and may consequently be useful in stormwater monitoring and management. Our study also highlights the importance of establishing background conditions when conducting ecological risk assessment of sediment in stormwater ponds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals contamination in soil is one of the global issues, posing a threat not just to the environment but also to human health. Identifying the source and distribution of heavy metal pollutants around mining areas can provide a scientific basis for future environmental control. Distributions of the heavy metals (Cd, Cr, As, and Ni) in this study were evaluated using descriptive and multivariate statistics and further described using a geostatistical approach and pollution indices. The total content of Cr, Cd, and Ni in surface soil was observed with a higher concentration level according to the Dutch target values and the 95% Investigation Levels determined for Malaysia soil. Statistical analyses, geostatistics, and GIS mapping suggested that Cd, Cr, and Ni were derived mainly from anthropogenic sources, including mining and agricultural activities, while As could be derived from lithogenic and anthropogenic sources. Geoaccumulation index analysis demonstrated that the contamination that occurred with Cd posed the greatest risk of contamination, followed by Cr, Ni, and As. A spatial interpolated map showed a higher concentration of heavy metals in the vicinity of the mining area. These findings highlight the effectiveness of principal component analysis, geostatistics, and geospatial analyses in evaluating heavy metal contents in the study area. The obtained results could be used by authorities to identify areas requiring remediation management and establish scientific baseline data related to soil quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry litter and its biochar has been used recently as alternative effective soil organic amendments due to their significant effect of improving soil properties. However, detailed information on this organic amendment's contribution to the bioavailability of heavy metals in the soil is still lacking. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of incorporated poultry litter and its biochar on bioavailable Zn, Pb, and Cd concentrations in the soil using various assessment contamination methods. The soil samples treated with poultry litter and its biochar at different application rates of 0, 15, 30, 60, 120 g/kg were collected from a greenhouse pot experiment. The study results indicate a decreasing order in concentrations as follows; Zn (2.04 mg/kg) > Pb (0.22 mg/kg) > Cd (0.02 mg/kg). Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) for Zn was moderate (0 < Igeo < 1) to heavy contamination (Igeo = 1.00), while Pb Igeo values were within the moderate contamination (0 < Igeo < 1) in all treated soils. Furthermore, Zn and Pb yielded contamination factor (CF) values within the ranges of low contamination (CF < 1) to moderate contamination (1 < CF < 3), nonetheless Zn exhibited the highest CF compared to Pb and Cd. Higher values of Pollution Load Index (PLI > 1) were observed, indicating the pollution level. Those PLI values point out the need to evaluate bioavailable heavy metals levels rather than total metal concentration for risk assessment of soil contamination by organic amendments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the vulnerability of Araromi residents to toxic (trace) metal pollution, we estimated the ecological risk of the sediments in the coastal area. The concentration of the metals (ppm) followed the trend: Fe (16,265–90,512) > Mn (116.3–1657) > Zn (16.5–338) > Cu (2.62–75.5) > Cr (4.5–29.25) > Pb (2–104.5) > Co (2.5–26) > Ni (1.45–22.75) > Cd (0.0015–1.5). Sediments from Oke Siri‐2, Idi Gbengben‐1, Oke Meji, Idi Gbengben‐3, and Ola Baba evidenced significant or extremely high enrichments. The degree of pollution of the trace metal was Pb > Cd > Zn > Fe > Mn > Co > Cu > Cr > Ni. Furthermore, the derived geoaccumulation index and contamination factor revealed that Pb, Cd, and Zn exhibited low‐high pollution levels. In contrast, Cr, Ni, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Co showed zero potential for ecological risks. The hazard index suggested that children and adults were not susceptible to any potential carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic effects. Also, the consensus‐based sediment quality guidelines revealed no adverse effects caused by toxic metals as the metals have values below the probable effect concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Street dust samples were collected from industrial and commercial cities (Jamshedpur and Ranchi during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons) for detecting the levels of Cr, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, As, Co, Al, and Mn. The industrial city recorded higher metal concentrations compared to commercial. Similar trend of pseudo-total metal concentrations was observed in both the seasons at industrial city (Al > Mn > Zn > Cr > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cd) and only monsoon season at commercial city (Al > Mn > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd). Zn > Cd was the most bioaccessible metal throughout the cities (monsoon and post-monsoon). The geochemical parameters (Igeo, EF, CF) were highest for Cd and lowest for Ni (both cities for the two seasons). Pollution Load Indices (PLI zone) were highest during the post-monsoon season in the industrial city. The highest carcinogenic risk was posed by Cr ranging from 1.87E-05 to 4.80E-05, in both the cities through ingestion and inhalation pathways. Children were found at higher risks, while the bioaccessible fractions posed neither carcinogenic nor non-carcinogenic threats to the population. Principal component analysis and correlation analysis indicated the influence of vehicular and industrial emissions, especially steel industry and coal-based thermal power plants as the major source of metals in street-dust. The outcomes of this work will be useful in providing baseline information of pollution along with their consequent environmental and human health risks of Jharkhand state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, the authors attempt to explain the importance of pH in soil environment studies and show what mistakes to avoid when measuring pH and interpreting the results obtained. The tests conducted (i.e., extraction in aqua regia, buffer capacity determination, and the impact of acidification on the amount of heavy metals extracted from soils) demonstrated how soil pollution and buffer capacity affect the pace of extracting cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) cations from heavily polluted and unpolluted soils following gradual acidification. It was shown that soil acidification caused a significant increase in metal mobility in the following order Cd > Zn > Pb and that the highest decrease in pH was observed after adding the first portion of acid. Further addition of acid caused a gradually lower decrease in pH. Soils from the polluted area presented a high buffer capacity. The control samples displayed a distinctly poorer resistance to pH changes in the soil environment. Special focus was placed on cadmium due to its high mobility in soils, even with neutral and slightly alkaline pH. The analyses revealed that in areas heavily polluted by long‐term industrial activity (Igeo > 5 for Zn, Pb and Cd), it is very important to conduct extensive geochemical studies related to the presence and circulation of particularly toxic elements. This is because every environmental factor, especially pH, may significantly affect their mobility, causing metal ions to become more or less active or increasing or decreasing environmental risk related to their presence. Highlights: Soil acidification caused a significant increase in metal mobility in the following order: Cd > Zn > Pb.A special focus needs to be placed on Cd due to its high mobility in soils (up to 70% of total concentration), even with neutral and slightly alkaline pH.A higher pH buffering capacity would lead to a lower increase in percentage of bioavailable pollutants with an increase in acidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]