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Antonangelo J, Zhang H. Assessment of portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) for plant-available nutrient prediction in biochar-amended soils. Sci Rep 2024; 14:20377. [PMID: 39223290 PMCID: PMC11369259 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Portable X-ray Fluorescence probe (pXRF) is a tool used to measure many elements quickly and efficiently in soil with minimal sample preparation. Although this sensing technique has been widely used to determine total elemental concentrations, it has not been calibrated for plant-available nutrient predictions. We evaluated the potential of using pXRF for fast plant-available nutrient quantification. Two experiments were conducted in soils treated with two types of biochars to obtain a practical range of soil pH (5.5 - 8.0) and organic carbon (2.0 - 5.5%). Biochars applied were derived from switchgrass (SGB) and poultry litter (PLB). The first experiment received biochars at application rates up to 8% (w/w) and had no plants. The second experiment had up to 4% of SGB or PLB planted with ryegrass (Lolium perenne). Linear regression (LR), polynomial regression (PolR), power regression (PowR), and stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) were the models tested. Regardless of the extraction method, phosphorus (P) showed a strong relationship between pXRF and several laboratory extraction methods; however, K prediction via pXRF was sensitive to the plant factor. The optimum soil available-P corresponding to the maximum P uptake in plant tissues can be assessed with pXRF. The LR was inconsistent for calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), and copper (Cu) and non-significant for magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn). Our results showed that pXRF is applicable to estimate P availability in soils receiving organic amendments. More evaluations are needed with diverse soil types to confirm the findings before using pXRF for fertilizer recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Antonangelo
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
| | - Hailin Zhang
- Plant and Soil Sciences Department, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
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Yang C, Hayhow C, Jackman E, Andrews D, Brabander D. Municipal Compost Public Health, Waste Management, and Urban Agriculture: A Decadal Study of Fugitive Pb in City of Boston, Massachusetts, USA. GEOHEALTH 2024; 8:e2023GH000810. [PMID: 38449815 PMCID: PMC10916439 DOI: 10.1029/2023gh000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Compostable materials constitute roughly half of waste generated globally, but only 5% of waste is actually processed through composting, suggesting that expanding compost programs may be an effective way to process waste. Compostable waste, if properly collected and processed, has value-added end use options including: residential and park landscaping, remediation of brownfield sites, and as growing media in urban agriculture (UA). Since 2001, our lab has partnered with The Food Project, a non-profit focused on youth leadership development through urban farming. From 2006 to 2022 we collected compost materials that were delivered to the farm from a variety of local sources and analyzed a suite of biogeochemical properties including lead (Pb) concentrations, organic carbon, and grain size distribution. Pb concentrations of Boston's municipal compost always exceeded the current City of San Francisco soil and compost purchase standard (80 μg/g). In 2012 Boston's composting program was halted when it exceeded the 400 μg/g Environmental Protection Agency's Pb in soil benchmark. Urban Pb is geomobile and must be managed to minimize resuspension and transport of fines whose Pb concentration is often elevated compared to bulk compost. Consequently, urban farmers have to source lower Pb compost from suburban suppliers at significantly greater cost. Over a 15 year period and through several city vendor contracts, Pb concentrations in municipal compost remain at levels that warrant continued surveillance and risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chansie Yang
- Department of Environmental StudiesWellesley CollegeWellesleyMAUSA
- Now at Department of BiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Claire Hayhow
- Department of GeosciencesWellesley CollegeWellesleyMAUSA
- Now at Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary SciencesMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMAUSA
| | - Emma Jackman
- Department of GeosciencesWellesley CollegeWellesleyMAUSA
| | | | - Daniel Brabander
- Department of Environmental StudiesWellesley CollegeWellesleyMAUSA
- Department of GeosciencesWellesley CollegeWellesleyMAUSA
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Cai Y, Han Z, Lu H, Zhao R, Wen M, Liu H, Zhang B. Spatial-temporal variation, source apportionment and risk assessment of lead in surface river sediments over ∼20 years of rapid industrialisation in the Pearl River Basin, China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 464:132981. [PMID: 37992505 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a highly toxic element and is not essential to the human body. Lead pollution caused by human activities and a high geological background is considered a global environmental issue. According to the China Geochemical Baseline (CGB) project, the Pearl River Basin had the highest Pb content in alluvial sediments of 30 first-level basins in China. For this reason, it is of great significance to determine the temporal and spatial variations in Pb and their influencing factors in the Pearl River Basin. In this study, 956 stream sediment samples collected in the 1980 s (early stage) and 129 river sediment samples collected from 2008 to 2010 (late stage) were used to study the background value and spatial-temporal variation characteristics of Pb in river sediments in the Pearl River Basin. The Pb source apportionment and an ecological risk assessment were also carried out. The background value of Pb (36.2 mg·kg-1) in the river sediments of the Pearl River Basin was significantly higher than that in China (22.1 mg·kg-1). The parent rocks determine the Pb background in sediments and the high Pb background areas mainly comprised carbonate rocks and acid volcanic rocks. Over 20 years of rapid industrialisation, the average Pb increased from 43.3 to 68.3 mg·kg-1 in the Pearl River Basin. The BCR analysis revealed that Pb mainly existed in the reducible phase (48 % on average) and residue phase (42 % on average). The enrichment factor and geo-accumulation index indicated that the late-stage sediments experienced more Pb pollution than the early-stage sediments. However, the risk assessment code (RAC) showed that there was a low ecological risk of Pb in the late-stage sediments. The factor analysis results for the two rounds of data were significantly different. The Pb content in early-stage sediments was closely related to Al2O3 and Zr, while Pb in the late-stage sediments was mainly related to Zn, As, Sb, Au and Hg, indicating that the increase in Pb in the later samples was mainly influenced by human activities. The Pb isotope composition of the late-stage sediments confirmed that low Pb content was mainly controlled by natural sources, while high Pb content was significantly affected by anthropogenic sources. Combining the results of spatial-temporal variation, chemical speciation and source apportionment indicated that the rapid rise of Pb in late-stage sediments in certain areas could be attributed to mining and smelting activities during the process of industrialisation over 20 years. The anthropogenic exogenous Pb could be immobilised by Fe-Mn (hydro)oxides when it entered the soil, so although there was a high background the ecological risk of Pb in river sediments was low. In the future, Pb pollution control and remediation needs to be strengthened in the Pearl River Basin to avoid the outbreak of potential ecological risks linked to Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqun Cai
- Department of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China
| | - Zhixuan Han
- Department of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Exploration of Nonferrous Metal Deposits and Efficient Utilization of Resources, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China; Institute of Mineral Resources, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Beijing 100037, China.
| | - Haotian Lu
- Department of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China
| | - Ruiwei Zhao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China
| | - Meilan Wen
- Department of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, China
| | - Hanliang Liu
- Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Langfang, Hebei 065000, China
| | - Bimin Zhang
- Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Langfang, Hebei 065000, China.
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Caporale AG, Porfido C, Roggero PP, Di Palma A, Adamo P, Pinna MV, Garau G, Spagnuolo M, Castaldi P, Diquattro S. Long-term effect of municipal solid waste compost on the recovery of a potentially toxic element (PTE)-contaminated soil: PTE mobility, distribution and bioaccessibility. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:122858-122874. [PMID: 37979102 PMCID: PMC10724333 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30831-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Compost from municipal solid waste (MSWC) can represent a resource for the environmental management of soils contaminated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), since it can reduce their mobility and improve soil fertility. However, the long-term impact of compost on soil recovery has been poorly investigated. To this end, the influence of a MSWC added at different rates (i.e. 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5% w/w) to a multi-PTE-contaminated (e.g. Sb 412 mg kg-1, Pb 2664 mg kg-1 and Zn 7510 mg kg-1) sub-acidic soil (pH 6.4) was evaluated after 6 years since its addition. The MSWC significantly enhanced soil fertility parameters (i.e. total organic carbon, Olsen P and total N) and reduced the PTE labile fractions. The distribution maps of PTEs detected through µXRF analysis revealed the presence of Zn and Pb carbonates in the amended soils, or the formation of complexes between these PTEs and the functional groups of MSWC. A higher oral, inhalation and dermal bioaccessibility of each PTE was detected in the soil fine-grained fractions (< 2 and 2-10 µm) than in coarse particles (10-20 and 20-50 µm). The MSWC amendment generally did not modify the PTE bioaccessibility, while the relative bioaccessibility of cationic PTEs was greater than that of anionic ones (e.g. Cd > Zn > Pb > Sb > As). Pb and Sb showed the highest hazard quotients (e.g. 2.2 and 10 for Sb and Pb, respectively, in children). Overall, the results indicated that the MSWC used can be an effective option for the recovery of PTE-contaminated soils, even in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Giandonato Caporale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Porfido
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via G. Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Roggero
- Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
- Nucleo Di Ricerca Sulla Desertificazione, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Anna Di Palma
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
- Research Institute On Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council (IRET-CNR) Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Adamo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, Portici, 80055, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Pinna
- Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Garau
- Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Matteo Spagnuolo
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via G. Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Castaldi
- Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
- Nucleo Di Ricerca Sulla Desertificazione, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Stefania Diquattro
- Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
- Nucleo Di Ricerca Sulla Desertificazione, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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Wang YL, Tsou MCM, Lai LC, Hseu ZY, Hsi HC, Chien LC. Oral and inhalation bioaccessibility of mercury in contaminated soils and potential health risk to the kidneys and neurodevelopment of children in Taiwan. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2023; 45:6267-6286. [PMID: 37289259 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-023-01633-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Health risk assessments of exposure to mercury (Hg) from soils via ingestion and inhalation are indispensable for Taiwanese people living in the vicinity of Hg-contaminated sites. In this study, anthropogenic soils were collected from various polluted sources in Taiwan. In vitro oral and inhalation bioaccessible fractions of Hg were analyzed to avoid from overestimating the exposure risk. Discrepancies in oral and inhalation bioaccessible levels of Hg in soils were found using different in vitro assays with different pH levels and chemical compositions. The freshly contaminated soil (soil S7) polluted by chlor-alkali production activity sampled before the site was remediated had the highest total Hg concentration of 1346 mg/kg, with the highest oral bioaccessibility of 26.2% as analyzed by SW-846 Method 1340 and inhalation bioaccessibility of 30.5% as analyzed by modified Gamble's solution. The lesser extent of aging of Hg in soil S7 increased the Hg availability for humans, which was also found based on results of a sequential extraction procedure. Results of the hazard quotient showed that soil ingestion was the main pathway causing non-carcinogenic risks for children and adults. Children were also exposed to higher risks than were adults due to higher frequencies of hand-to-mouth behaviors and lower body weights. Furthermore, hazard index results adjusted for oral and inhalation bioaccessible Hg were lower than those obtained based on the total Hg content; however, an unacceptable value of the non-carcinogenic risk (> 1) for children living near soil S7 was still observed. This study suggests that children living near sites polluted for a short period of time may suffer potential renal effects regardless of the bioaccessibility. Our findings provide suggestions for decision makers on setting new strategies for managing risks of Hg-contaminated soils in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Lin Wang
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | | | - Li-Chi Lai
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Zeng-Yei Hseu
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Cheng Hsi
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei, 10617, Taiwan.
| | - Ling-Chu Chien
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Cánovas CR, Quispe D, Macías F, Callejón-Leblic B, Arias-Borrego A, García-Barrera T, Nieto JM. Potential release and bioaccessibility of metal/loids from mine wastes deposited in historical abandoned sulfide mines. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120629. [PMID: 36370976 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This study deals with the potential release of metal/loids from sulfide mine wastes upon weathering and the health risks associated with their accidental ingestion. To address this, a complete chemical and mineralogical characterization of a variety of sulfide mine wastes was performed alongside a determination of metal/loid bioaccessibility through leaching tests simulating human digestive and lung fluids. The mine wastes consisted predominantly of Fe (35-55% of Fe2O3) and exhibited high concentrations of trace metalloids such as As (382-4310 mg/kg), Pb (205-15,974 mg/kg), Cu (78-1083 mg/kg), Zn (274-1863 mg/kg), or Sb (520-1816 mg/kg). Most wastes with high concentrations of soluble compounds are considered hazardous according to the European regulations due to the exceedance of threshold values for As, Pb, Cr, Cu, Sb, sulfates, and Zn determined by standardized tests. In general terms, the absorption of waste-hosted metals through both digestive and respiratory routes was low compared to the total metal contents of the wastes, with values below 8% of the total concentration in wastes for most metal/loids including Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Tl, or U. However, some metals exhibited a significantly higher absorption potential, especially through the respiratory route, reaching values of up to 17% for Cr and 75% for Pb, highlighting the strong bioaccessibility of Pb in certain sulfide wastes. Despite the high metal/loid concentrations observed in the studied wastes, a health risk assessment indicated that some non-carcinogenic effects could be observed in children only following the accidental digestion of Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ruiz Cánovas
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Huelva, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Research Center on Natural Resources, Health and the Environment, University of Huelva, Campus "El Carmen", 21007, Huelva, Spain.
| | - Dino Quispe
- Department of Chemistry, Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad Del Cusco, Av. de La Cultura, 733, 921, Cusco, Peru
| | - Francisco Macías
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Huelva, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Research Center on Natural Resources, Health and the Environment, University of Huelva, Campus "El Carmen", 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Belén Callejón-Leblic
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Research Center on Natural Resources, Health and the Environment, University of Huelva, Campus "El Carmen", 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Ana Arias-Borrego
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Avenida Professor García González, 41012, Seville, Spain
| | - Tamara García-Barrera
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Research Center on Natural Resources, Health and the Environment, University of Huelva, Campus "El Carmen", 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - José Miguel Nieto
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Huelva, Campus El Carmen, Avenida 3 de Marzo S/n 21007, Huelva, Spain; Research Center on Natural Resources, Health and the Environment, University of Huelva, Campus "El Carmen", 21007, Huelva, Spain
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7
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Kumkrong P, Dy E, Tyo DD, Jiang C, Gedara Pihilligawa I, Kingston D, Mercier PHJ. Investigation of metal mobility in gold and silver mine tailings by single-step and sequential extractions. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 194:423. [PMID: 35553245 PMCID: PMC9098622 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10054-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Metal leachate from mine tailings has the potential to release toxic metals into the surrounding environment. A single-step extraction procedure mimicking rainwater and a three-step BCR sequential extraction procedure (acid, reducing and oxidizing conditions) were applied to gold (GMT) and silver (SMT) mine tailings. Major (Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, and Mn) and trace metals were monitored to better understand the mobility and geochemistry of these metals when exposed to various environmental leaching conditions. Rainwater extraction released only small quantities of metals, while the three-step BCR extraction was more effective in mobilizing metals from the tailings. Under the acidic conditions of BCR step 1, Ca, Mg, Cd, Cu, and Mn were released in high concentrations. The dissolution of Fe, Ca, and Mg were dominant along with Pb in step 2 (reducing conditions). In step 3 (oxidizing conditions), Fe was the most dominant species together with Co, Cu, Ni, and Se. A high fraction of Al, Be, Cr, Li, Mo, Sb, Tl, and V remained in the residue. From SMT, larger quantities of As, Ca, Cd, and Zn were released compared to GMT. The BCR extraction could be applied to tailings to predict the potential release of toxic metals from mine wastes; however, excessive amounts of Ca and Fe in the tailings could cause carry-overs and incomplete extraction and carry-overs, resulting in a misinterpretation of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramee Kumkrong
- National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0R6, Canada.
| | - Eben Dy
- National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Daniel D Tyo
- National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Cindy Jiang
- National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | | | - David Kingston
- National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0R6, Canada
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Milke KP, Mitchell KL, Hayes SM, Green CJ, Guerard JJ. Behavior of potentially toxic elements from stoker-boiler fly ash in Interior Alaska: paired batch leaching and solid-phase characterization. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:31059-31074. [PMID: 34686963 PMCID: PMC9054907 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15583-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant investigation of fly ash spills and mineralogical controls on the release of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) from fly ash, interactions with the surficial environment remain relatively poorly understood. We conducted 90-day batch leaching studies with paired analysis of supernatant and solid-phase mineralogy to assess the elemental release and transformation of fly ash upon reaction with aquatic media (18 MΩ cm-1 water and simulated rainwater). The fly ash in this study, collected from the University of Alaska Fairbanks stoker-boiler power plant, is high in unburned carbon (~20% LOI) and highly enriched in several PTEs relative to the upper continental crust. Supernatant concentrations of oxyanion-forming elements (e.g., As, Se, Mo, Sb) remained relatively low and constant, suggesting equilibrium with the solid phase, possibly ettringite [Ca6Al2(SO4)3(OH)12•26H2O], which is known to incorporate and sorb oxyanion-forming PTEs and was identified by X-ray diffraction. Synthetic precipitation leaching procedure (SPLP) results failed to capture important temporal trends. Lead and Ba supernatant concentrations consistently exceeded drinking water standards, as well as others upon exposure to simulated physiological solutions. Seven-day experiments with dissolved organic matter-isolate solutions indicated that for certain elements, liberation was influenced by carbon concentration and/or the identity of the isolate. Overall, this paired approach can serve as a model for future studies, bridging existing gaps between batch leaching and single-element mineralogical, sorption, or speciation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle P Milke
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - Kiana L Mitchell
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, 99775, USA
| | - Sarah M Hayes
- Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, U. S. Geological Survey, 12201 Sunrise Valley Dr., MS 954, Room 4C200, Reston, VA, 20192, USA.
| | - Carlin J Green
- Geology, Energy & Minerals Science Center, U. S. Geological Survey, 12201 Sunrise Valley Dr., MS 954, Room 4C200, Reston, VA, 20192, USA
| | - Jennifer J Guerard
- Chemistry Department, United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, 21402, USA
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Zhou P, Kong Y, Cui X. Inhalation Bioaccessibility of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in PM 2.5 under Various Lung Environments: Implications for Air Pollution Control during Coronavirus Disease-19 Outbreak. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:4272-4281. [PMID: 35333512 PMCID: PMC8982496 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c08052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Global spread of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is placing an unprecedented pressure on the environment and health. In this study, a new perspective is proposed to assess the inhalation bioaccessibility of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM2.5 for people with various lung health conditions. In vitro bioaccessibility (IVBA) was measured using modified epithelial lung fluids simulating the extracellular environment of patients with severe and mild lung inflammation. The average PAH IVBA in PM2.5 of 24.5 ± 4.52% under healthy conditions increased (p = 0.06) to 28.6 ± 3.17% and significantly (p < 0.05) to 32.3 ± 5.32% under mild and severe lung inflammation conditions. A mechanistic study showed that lung inflammation decreased the critical micelle concentrations of main pulmonary surfactants (i.e., from 67.8 (for dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine) and 53.3 mg/L (for bovine serum albumin) to 44.5 mg/L) and promoted the formation of micelles, which enhanced the solubilization and competitive desorption of PAHs from PM2.5 in the lung fluids. In addition, risk assessment considering different IVBA values suggested that PAH contamination levels in PM2.5, which were safe for healthy people, may not be acceptable for patients with lung inflammation. Because of the large number of COVID-19 infections, and the fact that some survivors of COVID-19 were observed to still show symptoms of interstitial lung inflammation, the finding here can provide important implications for both the scientific community and policy makers in addressing health risk and air pollution control during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution
Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution
Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution
Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, People’s Republic of China
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Davis FR, Ali HH, Rosenzweig JA, Vrinceanu D, Maruthi Sridhar BB. Characterization of Chemical and Bacterial Concentrations in Floor Dust Samples in Southeast Texas Households. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312399. [PMID: 34886125 PMCID: PMC8656971 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Indoor dust can be a major source of heavy metals, nutrients, and bacterial contamination in residential environments and may cause serious health problems. The goal of this research is to characterize chemical and bacterial contaminants of indoor, settled house dust in the Houston Metropolitan region. To achieve this, a total of 31 indoor dust samples were collected, along with household survey data, which were subsequently analyzed for elemental and bacterial concentrations. Microscopic and geospatial analysis was conducted to characterize and map potential hotspots of contamination. Interestingly Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn concentrations of all 31 indoor dust samples were significantly enriched and exceeded soil background concentrations. Furthermore, As, Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations in the dust samples were significantly correlated to the enteric bacterial load concentrations. Human health assessment revealed that cancer risk values via ingestion for Cd, Cr, and Ni were greater than the acceptable range. Of our 31 dust sample isolates, three Gram-negative and 16 Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria were identified, capable of causing a wide range of diseases. Our results demonstrate that both chemical and bacterial characterization of indoor dust coupled with spatial mapping is essential to assess and monitor human and ecological health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felica R. Davis
- Department of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA; (F.R.D.); (H.H.A.)
| | - Hanan H. Ali
- Department of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA; (F.R.D.); (H.H.A.)
| | | | - Daniel Vrinceanu
- Department of Physics, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA;
| | - Balaji Bhaskar Maruthi Sridhar
- Department of Earth and Environment, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-305-348-1930
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11
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Tomašek I, Damby DE, Stewart C, Horwell CJ, Plumlee G, Ottley CJ, Delmelle P, Morman S, El Yazidi S, Claeys P, Kervyn M, Elskens M, Leermakers M. Development of a simulated lung fluid leaching method to assess the release of potentially toxic elements from volcanic ash. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 278:130303. [PMID: 33819884 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Freshly erupted volcanic ash contains a range of soluble elements, some of which can generate harmful effects in living cells and are considered potentially toxic elements (PTEs). This work investigates the leaching dynamics of ash-associated PTEs in order to optimize a method for volcanic ash respiratory hazard assessment. Using three pristine (unaffected by precipitation) ash samples, we quantify the release of PTEs (Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, Zn) and major cations typical of ash leachates (Mg, Na, Ca, K) in multiple simulated lung fluid (SLF) preparations and under varying experimental parameters (contact time and solid to liquid ratio). Data are compared to a standard water leach (WL) to ascertain whether the WL can be used as a simple proxy for SLF leaching. The main findings are: PTE concentrations reach steady-state dissolution by 24 h, and a relatively short contact time (10 min) approximates maximum dissolution; PTE dissolution is comparatively stable at low solid to liquid ratios (1:100 to 1:1000); inclusion of commonly used macromolecules has element-specific effects, and addition of a lung surfactant has little impact on extraction efficiency. These observations indicate that a WL can be used to approximate lung bioaccessible PTEs in an eruption response situation. This is a useful step towards standardizing in vitro methods to determine the soluble-element hazard from inhaled ash.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Tomašek
- Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Department of Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Physical Geography (FARD), Department of Geography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - David E Damby
- U.S. Geological Survey, Volcano Science Center/California Volcano Observatory, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Carol Stewart
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Claire J Horwell
- Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience, Department of Earth Sciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Pierre Delmelle
- Earth & Life Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Suzette Morman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Denver Federal Center, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Sofian El Yazidi
- Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Department of Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Claeys
- Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Department of Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthieu Kervyn
- Physical Geography (FARD), Department of Geography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Elskens
- Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Department of Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine Leermakers
- Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Department of Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Zupančič M, Šušteršič M, Bavec Š, Gosar M. Oral and inhalation bioaccessibility of potentially toxic elements in household dust from former Hg mining district, Idrija, Slovenia. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2021; 43:3505-3531. [PMID: 33570697 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-00835-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the main sources of potential chronic exposure to potentially toxic elements is household dust, especially in an environment with known point sources of PTE pollution. The literature review clearly shows that the total concentrations of an element in the environment do not provide information to predict its bioavailability. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the oral and inhalation bioaccessibility of PTE present in household dust in the small town of Idrija, the site of the former mercury mine. Unified bioaccessibility method was used to assess oral bioaccessibility of PTE in the stomach and intestine, while inhalation bioaccessibility was assessed by extraction of household dust samples with two synthetic extraction solutions-Gamble's solution (GS) and artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF). A low bioaccessibility of mercury was observed in all synthetic solutions (less than 3%). The highest bioaccessibility of PTE was observed in ALF solution, especially for Zn, Pb and Cd. Only a slightly lower bioaccessibility of these three elements was also observed in the stomach, while the bioaccessibility of other elements in the gastric phase was less than 40%. In general, the bioaccessibility of all elements decreased in the intestine. With the exception of Cr, the lowest bioaccessibility of the elements was observed in GS. Daily ingestion and inhalation doses of PTE from household dust were calculated and their values were below the available recommended or tolerable daily intakes of PTE from food according to the European Food Safety Authority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Zupančič
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Špela Bavec
- Geological Survey of Slovenia, Dimičeva ulica 14, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mateja Gosar
- Geological Survey of Slovenia, Dimičeva ulica 14, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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13
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Castro-Larragoitia J, Morton-Bermea O, Pérez-Rodríguez RY, Razo-Soto I, Montes-Ávila I, Hernández-Álvarez E, Arellano-Álvarez ÁA. Metal(loid) exposure on children from a historical metallurgical site. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2021; 43:2803-2817. [PMID: 33411168 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-020-00795-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The data obtained in this study represent a comprehensive assessment of human exposure to metal(loids) enriched in the environment, derived from metallurgical activities in Cedral, a town in North-Central Mexico. A multi-elemental analysis (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn and Sb) shows high metal(loid) content in environmental media (tailings samples, dust samples and particulate matter < 2.5 µm collected in the urban area). Blood samples from school-age children were collected and analyzed to determine exposure levels. The assessment of the data obtained from this study shows that Sb and Cd are highly enriched elements in the environment of Cedral; their respective levels in the blood samples analyzed are 10.9 and 11.3 times higher than their pediatric reference levels. The statistical analysis indicates a strong relationship between metal(loid)s in blood samples and both dust and PM2.5 samples, which reveal that ingestion and inhalation could represent important exposure routes for metal(loid) intake. Continuous monitoring in the area is paramount to assess the health impact posed by the different routes of exposure. It is also important to implement health education programs to decrease the population's exposure to metal(loid)s and to design urgent remediation measures, to be implemented as soon as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Castro-Larragoitia
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Manuel Nava 8, 78290, San Luis Potosí, Mexico.
| | - Ofelia Morton-Bermea
- Instituto de Geofísica, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04150, Mexico, DF, Mexico
| | | | - Israel Razo-Soto
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Manuel Nava 8, 78290, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Isidro Montes-Ávila
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Manuel Nava 8, 78290, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
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14
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Song H, Chung H, Nam K. Effect of monovalent and divalent ion solutions as washing agents on the removal of Sr and Cs from soil near a nuclear power plant. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 412:125165. [PMID: 33540261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Solutions of monovalent and divalent ions, including calcium, magnesium, ammonium, and potassium, were tested in the removal of Sr and Cs from soil near a nuclear power plant. The Ca2+ and K+ solutions exhibited removal efficiencies of 68.2% and 81.3% for Sr and Cs, respectively. This high performance was probably due to the physicochemical similarities between 'Ca and Sr' and 'K and Cs'. Alternatively, the Mg2+ and NH4+ solutions performed much worse, despite having the same valences as Ca2+ and K+, respectively. Ca2+ and K+ solutions could also simultaneously remove cationic toxic metals present with the nuclides, albeit much less efficiently (30-40%). For anionic metalloid As and anionic toxic metal Cr, the efficiency was even lower (< 20%). The five-step sequential extraction experiment confirmed that all chemical forms of Sr and Cs, except the residual form, were extensively removed by the Ca2+ and K+ solutions, respectively. For comparison, widely used washing agents exhibited removal efficiencies of 25-30%. Notably, Fe2+ and Mn2+ ions were hardly detected in the Ca2+ solution, while their concentrations were much higher in the common washing agents, suggesting the involvement of an ion-exchange mechanism in Sr and Cs removal, rather than a Fe/Mn oxide dissolution mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hojae Song
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hyeonyong Chung
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kyoungphile Nam
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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15
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Boim AGF, Patinha C, Wragg J, Cave M, Alleoni LRF. Respiratory bioaccessibility and solid phase partitioning of potentially harmful elements in urban environmental matrices. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 765:142791. [PMID: 33097248 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Studies regarding the role of geochemical processes in urban environmental matrices (UEM) and their influence on respiratory bioaccessibility in humans are scarce in humid tropical regions, especially in Brazil. Contaminated UEM are potentially hazardous to humans if particles <10 μm in diameter are inhaled and reach the tracheobronchial region. In this study, we evaluated samples collected in Brazilian UEMs with a large environmental liability left by former mining industries and in a city with strong industrial expansion. UEM samples were classified into soil, sediment and mine tailings according to the characteristics of the collection sites. The respiratory bioaccessibility of potentially harmful elements (PHE) was evaluated using artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF, pH 4.5), and the BCR-sequential extraction was performed to evaluate how the respiratory bioaccessibility of the PHE was related to the solid phase partitioning. The bioaccessible fraction (BAF) ranged from 54 to 98% for Cd; 21-89% for Cu; 46-140% for Pb, 35-88% for Mn and; 41-84% for Zn. The average BAF of the elements decreased in the following order: Soil: Cd > Pb > Mn > Zn > Cu; Tailing: Pb > Cd > Zn > Mn > Cu; and Sediments: Pb > Mn > Cd > Zn > Cu. BCR-fractions were useful to predict the PHE bioaccessibility (R2 = 0.79-0.98), thus suggesting that particle geochemistry and mineralogy can influence PHE behaviour in the pulmonary fluid. Therefore, this approach provides a combination of quantitative and qualitative data, which allows us to carry out a more realistic assessment of the current situation of the potentially contaminated site and possible alternatives for decision making by the stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexys Giorgia Friol Boim
- Department of Soil Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), 13418-900 Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Carla Patinha
- GEOBIOTEC, Geosciences Department, Aveiro University, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joanna Wragg
- British Geological Survey, Environmental Science Centre, Nicker Hill, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK
| | - Mark Cave
- British Geological Survey, Environmental Science Centre, Nicker Hill, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK
| | - Luís Reynaldo Ferracciú Alleoni
- Department of Soil Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), 13418-900 Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Almeida VOD, Pereira TCB, Teodoro LDS, Escobar M, Ordovás CJ, Dos Santos KB, Weiler J, Bogo MR, Schneider IAH. On the effects of iron ore tailings micro/nanoparticles in embryonic and larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 759:143456. [PMID: 33218813 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Iron ore tailings (IOT) represent a major problem in the mining industry worldwide due to large volumes of waste disposed in mine sites. IOT are exposed to the environment and subjected to wind and water dispersion, even under non-catastrophic scenarios as dam collapses, and the effects of these particles to the biota are still mostly unknown. This work aimed to prepare and to characterize a suspension containing the finest (micro/nano range) particles of IOT and to evaluate its effects on development and behavior of zebrafish (Danio rerio), at both embryonic and larval stages. IOT suspension comprised 37 mg L-1 of a multi-mineral material mainly composed by hematite and quartz, in a size-range of 33-1400 nm. Regarding in vivo toxicological assays, no robust alterations were recorded in functional, morphological and behavioral end-points analyzed, although a significant adhesion of IOT particles on zebrafish chorion was observed, without a prejudice of embryo hatching. Under applied conditions, iron ore particles did not present harmful effects to the initial stages of zebrafish development, and the particle size range and potential interactions with SiO2 content might be behind such effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vítor Otacílio de Almeida
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Mineral e Ambiental, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Minas, Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, CEP: 91.501-970, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Talita Carneiro Brandão Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lilian de Souza Teodoro
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Manuella Escobar
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Carolina Junqueira Ordovás
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Karine Batista Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Mineral e Ambiental, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Minas, Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, CEP: 91.501-970, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Weiler
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Mineral e Ambiental, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Minas, Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, CEP: 91.501-970, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maurício Reis Bogo
- Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, CEP: 90.619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Escola de Medicina, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690, CEP: 90.610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ivo André Homrich Schneider
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Mineral e Ambiental, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Minas, Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Escola de Engenharia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, CEP: 91.501-970, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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17
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Khelifi F, Caporale AG, Hamed Y, Adamo P. Bioaccessibility of potentially toxic metals in soil, sediments and tailings from a north Africa phosphate-mining area: Insight into human health risk assessment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 279:111634. [PMID: 33213991 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The risk assessment of phosphate mining/processing industrial activities on the environment and human health is crucial to properly manage and minimize the risks over time. In this work, we studied the inhalation and dermal bioaccessibility of potentially toxic metals (PTM) in different particle-size fractions of urban soil, sediments and tailings from Gafsa-Metlaoui phosphate mining area, to assess afterwards the non-carcinogenic (NCR) and carcinogenic (CR) risks for the health of local citizens and workers constantly exposed to airborne particulate matter (PM) originating from these sources of contamination. Samples were separated in particle-size fractions by centrifugation and consecutive cycles of sedimentation and decanting. The pseudo-total concentrations and bioaccessible fractions of PTM were extracted by aqua regia and in vitro bioaccessibility tests, respectively. Both sediments and tailings showed higher-than-background concentrations of PTM (mainly Cd, Zn and Cr), with a tendency to accumulate these metals in fine particles (<10 μm). In urban soil, only Cd was above the background concentration. The bioaccessibility of PTM via inhalation was significantly higher in artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF) than in simulated epithelial lung fluid (SELF): basically, Cd was the most bioaccessible metal (relative bioaccessibility up to 80%), followed by the medium-to-high bioaccessible Zn (47%), Pb (46%) and Cu (39%), and the least bioaccessible Cr (16%). In synthetic skin surface liquid (NIHS 96-10), only Cd was bioaccessible at worrying extent (20-44%). On the basis of US.EPA risk assessment, the exposure to PTM bioaccessible fractions or pseudo-total concentrations would not cause serious NCR and CR risks for human health. Significant health risks (Hazard Index >1 and CR > 10-4), especially for children, can occur if ingestion route is also considered. The findings underline the need for adequate protection of contaminated soil, sediments and mine tailings laying nearby urban agglomerates, to reduce the health risks for inhabitants and workers of Gafsa-Metlaoui mining area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten Khelifi
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, University of Carthage, Jarzouna, 7021, Bizerte, Tunisia; Laboratory for the Application of Materials to the Environment, Water and Energy Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, University of Gafsa, Campus Sidi Ahmed Zarroug, 2112, Gafsa, Tunisia
| | - Antonio G Caporale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.
| | - Younes Hamed
- Laboratory for the Application of Materials to the Environment, Water and Energy Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, University of Gafsa, Campus Sidi Ahmed Zarroug, 2112, Gafsa, Tunisia
| | - Paola Adamo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre on the "Earth Critical Zone" for Supporting the Landscape and Agroenvironment Management (CRISP), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
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18
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Tonhá MS, Garnier J, Araújo DF, Cunha BCA, Machado W, Dantas E, Araújo R, Kutter VT, Bonnet MP, Seyler P. Behavior of metallurgical zinc contamination in coastal environments: A survey of Zn from electroplating wastes and partitioning in sediments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 743:140610. [PMID: 32659555 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The contamination of coastal environments by metallurgical wastes involves multiple biogeochemical processes; accordingly, understanding metal behavior and risk evaluation of contaminated areas, such as Sepetiba Bay (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), remains challenging. This study coupled Zn isotopic analyses with sequential extractions (BCR) to investigate the mechanisms of Zn transfer between legacy electroplating waste and the main environments in Sepetiba Bay. This metallurgical waste showed a light bulk isotopic signature (δ66/64ZnbulkJMC = +0.30 ± 0.01‰, 2 s, n = 3) that was not distinct from the lithogenic geochemical baseline, but was different from signature of mangrove sediment considered as anthropogenic end member (δ66/64ZnJMC = +0.86 ± 0.15‰) in a previous isotopic study in this area. Zn isotopic compositions of sediment samples (ranging from +0.20 to +0.98‰) throughout the bay fit a mixing model involving multiple sources, consistent with previous studies. In the metallurgic zone, the exchangeable/carbonate fraction (ZnF1) exhibited high Zn concentrations (ZnF1 = 9840 μg g-1) and a heavy isotopic composition (δ66/64ZnF1JMC = +1.10 ± 0.01‰). This finding showed that, in some cases, the bulk isotopic signature of waste is not the most relevant criterion for evaluating trace metal dispersion in the environment. Indeed, based on the BCR, it was observed that part of the anthropogenic metallurgical Zn was redistributed from the exchangeable/carbonate fraction in the waste to the surrounding mangrove sediment. Then, this contaminated sediment with heavy δ66/64Zn values was exported to other coastal environments. In Sepetiba Bay, contaminated sediments revealed a large concentration of ZnF1 fraction (up to 400 μg g-1) with a heavy Zn isotopic signature. This signature also matched the Zn isotopic signature of oysters in Sepetiba Bay reported by other studies; hence, measurement of the isotopic exchangeable/carbonate fraction has important implications for tracing the transfer of anthropogenic Zn to biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myller S Tonhá
- Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Geociências, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, L2, Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Jeremie Garnier
- Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Geociências, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, L2, Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Laboratoire Mixte International "Observatoire des Changements Environnementaux" (LMI OCE), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement/University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Brasilia, Brazil.
| | - Daniel F Araújo
- Laboratoire de Biogéochimie des Contaminants Métalliques, Ifremer, Centre Atlantique, F44311 Nantes Cedex 3, France
| | - Bruno C A Cunha
- Institute of Geosciences, University of São Paulo, rua do Lago, 562, São Paulo 05508-080, Brazil
| | - Wilson Machado
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Geoquímica, Campus do Valonguinho, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Elton Dantas
- Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Geociências, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, L2, Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rafael Araújo
- Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Geociências, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, L2, Asa Norte, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Vinicius T Kutter
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Geociências (Geoquímica), Universidade Federal Fluminense, Outeiro São João Batista s/n - Centro, Niterói, RJ 24020-141, Brazil
| | - Marie-Paule Bonnet
- Laboratoire Mixte International "Observatoire des Changements Environnementaux" (LMI OCE), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement/University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Patrick Seyler
- Laboratoire Mixte International "Observatoire des Changements Environnementaux" (LMI OCE), Institut de Recherche pour le Développement/University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Brasilia, Brazil; Unité Mixte de Recherche 5569 Hydrosciences Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le développement, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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19
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Tian S, Li K, Møller P, Ying SC, Wang L, Li Z, Roursgaard M, Liang T. Assessment of reactive oxygen species production and genotoxicity of rare earth mining dust: Implications for public health and mining management. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 740:139759. [PMID: 32569908 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mining rare earth elements (REEs) can release large amounts of metal(loid)-rich dust, which can pose significant health risks to local residents. However, compared to other types of particulates, toxicity of mining dust has been largely overlooked. To provide experimental evidence on toxicity of REE mine dust, the study assessed the oxidative stress potential and genotoxicity of inhalable particles collected in a REE mining area, and associated toxicological response with source compositions. Both source types (i.e., mine and tailing area) and distances from source (i.e., industrial and residential areas) were considered when selecting the 44 sampling sites. The particle samples contained 2.3-3.5 folds higher concentrations of tested metal(loid)s than background concentrations in soil. Specially, elevated Fe, REEs, Cd, Pb were found. In spite of low cytotoxicity in lung epithelial A549 cells, there was increased cellular ROS production by of particle exposure. Samples with higher mining-originated source contributions (Provenance Index <0.3) had higher cellular ROS production (1.72 fold, 95%CI: 1.66-1.79 fold) than samples with lower mining contributions (1.58 fold, 95%CI: 1.52-1.65 fold). The factors soil (~46%), mine (~22%), and heavy metal (~20%) sources were recognized by source apportionment analysis as the main contributors to cellular ROS production; importantly, mine and heavy metal sources counted more in industrial samples. While samples generated genotoxicity, there were no differences in DNA damage between the location groups of sampling. Collectively, the results indicate that particles in mining areas may cause ROS production and DNA damage in lung cells depending on mine dust. Coupled with the long-range transportation potential of mine dust, safety measures on open pit and dust disposal sites should be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kexin Li
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Samantha C Ying
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Lingqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiyi Li
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Tao Liang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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20
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Ren H, Yu Y, An T. Bioaccessibilities of metal(loid)s and organic contaminants in particulates measured in simulated human lung fluids: A critical review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:115070. [PMID: 32806460 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Particle-bound pollutants can pose a health risk to humans. Inhalation exposure evaluated by total contaminant concentrations significantly overestimates the potential risk. To assess the risk more accurately, bioavailability, which is the fraction that enters into the systemic circulation, should be considered. Researchers have replaced bioavailability by bioaccessibility due to the rapid and cost-efficient measurement for the latter, especially for assessment by oral ingestion. However, contaminants in particulates have different behavior when inhaled than when orally ingested. Some of the contaminants are exhaled along with exhalation, and others are deposited in the lung with the particulates. In addition, a fraction of the contaminants is released into the lung fluid and absorbed by the lung, and another fraction enters systemic circulation under the action of cell phagocytosis on particulates. Even if the release fraction, i.e., release bioaccessibility, is considered, the measurement faces many challenges. The present study highlights the factors influencing release bioaccessibility and the incorporation of inhalation bioaccessibility into the risk assessment of inhaled contaminants. Currently, there are three types of extraction techniques for simulated human lung fluids, including simple chemical solutions, sequential extraction techniques, and physiologically based techniques. The last technique generally uses three kinds of solution: Gamble's solution, Hatch's solution, and artificial lysosomal fluid, which are the most widely used physiologically based simulated human lung fluids. External factors such as simulated lung fluid composition, pH, extraction time, and sorption sinks can affect release bioaccessibility, whereas particle size and contaminant properties are important internal factors. Overall, release bioaccessibility is less used than bioaccessibility considering the deposition fraction when assessing the risk of contaminants in inhaled particulates. The release bioaccessibility measurement poses two main challenges: developing a unified, accurate, stable, simple, and systematic biologically based method, and validating the method through in-vivo assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helong Ren
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Guangzhou Key Laboratory Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yingxin Yu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Guangzhou Key Laboratory Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Synergy Innovation Institute of GDUT, Shantou, 515041, China.
| | - Taicheng An
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Guangzhou Key Laboratory Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Synergy Innovation Institute of GDUT, Shantou, 515041, China
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21
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Doyi INY, Strezov V, Isley CF, Yazdanparast T, Taylor MP. The relevance of particle size distribution and bioaccessibility on human health risk assessment for trace elements measured in indoor dust. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 733:137931. [PMID: 32438193 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Trace metal contaminants in indoor dust pose a significant potential exposure risk to people because of the time spent indoors and the readily ingested and inhaled fine-grained composition of indoor dusts. However, there is limited trace metal data available on the specific interaction of dust particle size fraction and their respective bioaccessibility/bioavailability and its consequent effect on health risk assessment. This study addresses this knowledge gap by examining bioaccessible and bioavailable trace element concentrations (As, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) in 152 discrete size fractions from 38 indoor vacuum samples from a larger dataset (n = 376) of indoor dust from Sydney, Australia. Arsenic, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn were most concentrated in the 90-150 μm fraction with Cr and Mn being more concentrated in < 45 μm fraction. Dust particle size fractions < 45 μm, 45-90 μm, 90-150 μm and 150-250 μm were analysed for their individual gastric phase (G-alone) in vitro trace element bioaccessibilities. Lead exposure risk was estimated using the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) children's model. Mean Pb bioaccessibility was 59.6%, 42%, 62% and 62.2% for < 45 μm, 45-90 μm, 90-150 μm, and 150-250 μm, respectively. Mean Pb absolute bioavailability (ABA) was lower at 26.2%, 18.4%, 27.2% and 27.3% for size fractions < 45 μm, 45-90 μm, 90-150 μm, and 150-250 μm, respectively. The predicted blood Pb (PbB) levels for a hypothetical child aged 1 to 3 years for each of the dust particle size fractions was > 5 μg/dL. Lead concentrations measured in the selected dust samples show a potential for adverse health impacts on young children with the greatest risk being from indoor dust sized 90-150 μm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel N Y Doyi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Vladimir Strezov
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Cynthia F Isley
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Tahereh Yazdanparast
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Mark Patrick Taylor
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
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22
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Mehta N, Cipullo S, Cocerva T, Coulon F, Dino GA, Ajmone-Marsan F, Padoan E, Cox SF, Cave MR, De Luca DA. Incorporating oral bioaccessibility into human health risk assessment due to potentially toxic elements in extractive waste and contaminated soils from an abandoned mine site. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 255:126927. [PMID: 32417510 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The waste rock, tailings and soil around an abandoned mine site in Gorno (northwest Italy) contain elevated concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTE) exceeding the permissible limits for residential uses. Specifically, the maximum concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn were 107 mg/kg, 340 mg/kg, 1064 mg/kg, and 148 433 mg/kg, respectively. A site-specific human health risk assessment (HHRA) was conducted for residential and recreational exposure scenarios, using an approach based on Risk Based Corrective Action (RBCA) method, refined by incorporating oral bioaccessibility data. Oral bioaccessibility analyses were performed by simulating the human digestion process in vitro (Unified BARGE Method). Detailed analysis of oral bioaccessible fraction (BAF i.e. ratio of bioaccessible concentrations to total concentrations on <250 μm fraction) indicated BAF of As (5-33%), Cd (72-98%), Co (24-42%), Cr (3-11%), Cu (25-90%), Ni (17-60%), Pb (16-88%) and Zn (73-94%). The solid phase distribution and mineralogical analyses showed that the variation of BAF is attributed to presence of alkaline calcareous rocks and association of PTE with a variety of minerals. The HHRA for ingestion pathway, suggested that bioaccessibility-corrected cancer risk reached up to 2.7 × 10-5 and 0.55 × 10-5 for residential and recreational senarios respectively (acceptable level is 1 × 10-5). The hazard index (HI) recalculated after incorporation of oral bioaccessible concentrations for a residential scenario ranged from 0.02 to 17.9. This was above the acceptable level (>1) for 50% of the samples, indicating potential human health risks. This study provides information for site-specific risk assessments and planning future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Mehta
- Queen's University Belfast, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Belfast, BT9 5AH, UK; University of Torino, Department of Earth Sciences, Torino, 10125, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Cipullo
- Cranfield University, School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, UK
| | - Tatiana Cocerva
- Queen's University Belfast, School of Natural and Built Environment, Belfast, BT9 5AG, UK
| | - Frederic Coulon
- Cranfield University, School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, UK
| | | | - Franco Ajmone-Marsan
- University of Torino, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, Grugliasco, 10095, Italy
| | - Elio Padoan
- University of Torino, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, Grugliasco, 10095, Italy
| | - Siobhan Fiona Cox
- Queen's University Belfast, School of Natural and Built Environment, Belfast, BT9 5AG, UK
| | - Mark R Cave
- British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham, NG12 5GG, UK
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23
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Li J, McDonald-Gillespie J. Airborne Lead (Pb) From Abandoned Mine Waste in Northeastern Oklahoma, USA. GEOHEALTH 2020; 4:e2020GH000273. [PMID: 32995686 PMCID: PMC7507453 DOI: 10.1029/2020gh000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Active and abandoned mines pose serious health threats to humans, aquatic, and terrestrial biota. Northeastern Oklahoma, home to a number of Native American Tribes, is part of the well-known Tri-State Mining District. More than 100 years of mining production in this area has left numerous, large chat piles in the surrounding environment. Despite numerous studies and efforts on the restoration of metal contamination in this area, no studies have attempted to distinguish the contributions of different sources, particularly from the atmospheric deposition, of metals to the aquatic environment. Here, we analyzed the atmospheric deposition of Pb from Picher, a town surrounded by chat piles, and Tulsa, a primary metropolitan area in northeastern Oklahoma, from 2010 to 2016. We found that chat piles in Picher contain ~20% and 6% of fine particles that are subjective to windborne transport and human inhalation, respectively, and these fine particles contain disproportionally high concentrations of Pb. Despite the absence of industrial and human activities, airborne Pb in Picher is 2-5 times higher than that of Tulsa. A conservative estimate showed that airborne Pb may contribute up to 10% of annual Pb mass flux to a lake 18 km away from the chat piles in Picher and probably a much higher contribution for soil and water located adjacent to Picher. Despite known limitations, our study represents the first attempt to evaluate the significance of Pb-laden airborne particulate matter from a large-scale abandoned mining area where the humans are particularly vulnerable to metal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junran Li
- Department of Geosciences The University of Tulsa Tulsa OK USA
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24
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Kumkrong P, Mercier PHJ, Pihilligawa Gedara I, Mihai O, Tyo DD, Cindy J, Kingston DM, Mester Z. Determination of 27 metals in HISS-1, MESS-4 and PACS-3 marine sediment certified reference materials by the BCR sequential extraction. Talanta 2020; 221:121543. [PMID: 33076103 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.121543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The BCR sequential extraction procedure developed by the European Community Bureau of Reference was applied to the three marine sediment certified reference materials (CRMs). These CRMs are designated as HISS-1, MESS-4, and PACS-3 and comprise respectively pristine, moderately-contaminated, and highly-contaminated sediments, respectively. The study aimed to provide values of extractable elements in reference materials of varied geological origin to support method development and quality control efforts. Concentrations of 27 elements extracted in the three sequential extraction steps and in the residue were determined. The extraction steps consisted of: Step 1 - acetic acid extraction (targeting the exchangeable, water- and acid-soluble fraction); Step 2 - hydroxylammonium chloride extraction (targeting the reducible fraction); and Step 3 - hydrogen peroxide extraction (targeting the oxidizable fraction). The results from two independent laboratories using the sequential extraction procedure for the 27 elements were combined using the DerSimonian-Laird method of analysis implemented in the NIST Consensus Builder software. The percent recovery (sum steps vs total metal content) of 27 elements ranged from 68% to 125% in HISS-1, 76%-119% in MESS-4, and 70%-125% in PACS-3, based on the certified values. The combined uncertainty (k = 2) was from 1% to 39% for HISS-1, 3%-45% for MESS-4, and 3%-21% for PACS-3. Comparing the three extraction steps, the uncertainty of Step 3 was the highest for all the three CRMs. The agglomerate sediments in MESS-4 resulted in high uncertainty when compared to HISS-1 and PACS-3. The method validation showed the BCR sequential extraction procedure can apply to other elements including As, Co, Li, Mn, and V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramee Kumkrong
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | - Ovi Mihai
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel D Tyo
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jiang Cindy
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - David M Kingston
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Zoltán Mester
- National Research Council Canada, 1200, Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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25
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Loredo-Portales R, Bustamante-Arce J, González-Villa HN, Moreno-Rodríguez V, Del Rio-Salas R, Molina-Freaner F, González-Méndez B, Archundia-Peralta D. Mobility and accessibility of Zn, Pb, and As in abandoned mine tailings of northwestern Mexico. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:26605-26620. [PMID: 32372357 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09051-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Generation, storage, and management of waste coming from industrial processes are a growing worldwide problem. One of the main contributors is the mining industry, in particular tailings generated by historical mining, which are barely maintained, especially in developing countries. Assessing the impact of a mining site to surrounding soils and ecosystems can be complex, especially when determining mobility and accessibility of the contaminants is required to perform ecological and human health risk assessment. As an effort to obtain information regarding mobility and accessibility of some potentially toxic elements (Zn, Pb, and As) from an historical mining site of northwestern Mexico, the abandoned mine tailings of San Felipe de Jesús in central Sonora and adjacent agricultural soils were investigated. Mobility and accessibility were assessed by means of sequential extraction procedures and using simulated physiological media. Additionally, an assessment of accidental oral intake was calculated considering the bioaccessible fractions. Results show that higher concentrations of contaminants were found in sulfide-rich tailings (Zn = 92,540; Pb = 21,288; As = 19,740 mg kg-1) compared with oxide-rich tailings (Zn = 43,240; Pb = 14,763; As = 13,401 mg kg-1). Concentrations in agricultural soils were on average Zn = 4755, Pb = 2840, and As = 103 mg kg-1. Zinc was mainly recovered from labile fractions in oxide-rich tailings (~ 60%) and in a lower amount from sulfide-rich tailings (~ 30%). Pb and As were mainly associated with residual fractions (80-95%) in both types of tailings. The percentage of mobile fractions (sum of water-soluble, exchangeable, and bound to carbonate fractions) in agricultural soils was as follows: Zn ~ 60%, Pb ~ 15%, and As ~ 70%. Regarding the phytoaccessible fraction, the studied elements in mine tailings and agricultural soil samples exceeded the threshold limits, except for As in agricultural soils. According to data obtained, toxic effects were also calculated. As for daily oral intake for non-carcinogenic effects in adults and children, only Pb and As exceeded reference dose values, especially in children exposed to sulfide-rich tailings and agricultural soils. Regarding carcinogenic effects of Pb and As, most of the samples were above acceptable risk values.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Loredo-Portales
- CONACYT-Estación Regional del Noroeste, Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Colosio y Madrid s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico.
| | - Jesús Bustamante-Arce
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Metalurgia, Universidad de Sonora, Blvd. Luis Encinas y Rosales s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Héctor Ney González-Villa
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Metalurgia, Universidad de Sonora, Blvd. Luis Encinas y Rosales s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Verónica Moreno-Rodríguez
- Ingeniería en Geociencias, Universidad Estatal de Sonora, Av. Ley Federal del Trabajo s/n, Col. Apolo, 83100, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Rafael Del Rio-Salas
- Estación Regional del Noroeste, Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Colosio y Madrid s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
- Laboratorio Nacional de Geoquímica y Mineralogía-LANGEM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Francisco Molina-Freaner
- Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Colosio y Madrid s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Blanca González-Méndez
- CONACYT-Estación Regional del Noroeste, Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Colosio y Madrid s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Denisse Archundia-Peralta
- CONACYT-Estación Regional del Noroeste, Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Colosio y Madrid s/n, 83000, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
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26
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Meza-Figueroa D, Barboza-Flores M, Romero FM, Acosta-Elias M, Hernández-Mendiola E, Maldonado-Escalante F, Pérez-Segura E, González-Grijalva B, Meza-Montenegro M, García-Rico L, Navarro-Espinoza S, Santacruz-Gómez K, Gallego-Hernández A, Pedroza-Montero M. Metal bioaccessibility, particle size distribution and polydispersity of playground dust in synthetic lysosomal fluids. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 713:136481. [PMID: 31954252 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.136481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Inhalation of playground dust-derived fine particles in schoolyards poses a risk from exposure to metal(oids) and minerals. In this work, we obtained the total concentration and bioaccessibility of metal(oids) with Gamble Solution (GS) and Artificial Lysosomal Fluid (ALF) synthetic solutions, simulating the extracellular neutral pH environment of the lung and the intracellular conditions of the macrophage, respectively. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Dynamic Light Scattering analysis (DLS) techniques were used to characterize particles with a size smaller than 2.5 μm, which can be assimilated by macrophages in the deep part of the lung. Arsenic (As), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) showed concentrations of 39.9, 147.9, 286, 1369, 2313, 112,457 mg·kg-1, respectively. The results indicated that all studied elements were enriched when compared to (i) local geochemical background and (ii) findings reported in other cities around the world. Bioaccessibility of metal(oids) in GS was low-moderate for most studied elements. However, in ALF assays, bioaccessibility was high among the samples: for lead (Pb = 34-100%), arsenic (As = 14.7-100%), copper (Cu = 17.9-100%), and zinc (Zn = 35-52%) possibly related to hydrophobic minerals in dust. SEM and DLS image analysis showed that playground dust particles smaller than 2.5 μm are dominant, particularly particles with a size range of 500-600 nm. The polydispersity detected in these particle sizes showed that most of them might be crystalline compounds (elongated shapes) forming agglomerates instead of combustion particles (spheres). Moreover, the circularity detected varies from 0.57 to 0.79 (low roundness), which corroborates this finding. The presence of agglomerates of ultrafine/nanoparticles containing highly bioaccessible metals in playground sites may have severe implications in children's health. Therefore, further studies are required to characterize the size distribution, structure, shape and composition of such minerals which are essential factors related to the toxicology of inhaled dust particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Meza-Figueroa
- Department of Geology, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Marcelino Barboza-Flores
- Department of Physics Research, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Francisco M Romero
- Institute of Geology, National University of Mexico, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegación Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Mónica Acosta-Elias
- Department of Physics Research, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Hernández-Mendiola
- Institute of Geology, National University of Mexico, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegación Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | | | - Efrén Pérez-Segura
- Department of Geology, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Belem González-Grijalva
- Department of Geology, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | | | - Leticia García-Rico
- Center of Research in Food and Development, A.C. Carretera a la Victoria km 0.6, Hermosillo, Sonora 83304, Mexico
| | - Sofía Navarro-Espinoza
- Nanotechnology PhD Program, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Karla Santacruz-Gómez
- Physics Department, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Ana Gallego-Hernández
- Department of Physics Research, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico
| | - Martín Pedroza-Montero
- Department of Physics Research, University of Sonora, Rosales y Encinas, Hermosillo, Sonora 83000, Mexico.
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27
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Metal Content of Stream Sediments as a Tool to Assess Remediation in an Area Recovering from Historic Mining Contamination. MINERALS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/min10030247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead and zinc mining was booming in the early 1900s in and near Joplin, Missouri; a town within the Tri-State Mining District, USA. After the ore became depleted, mining companies moved out, leaving a profoundly disturbed land. Presently, over 90% of the land has been remediated. We collected sediment samples along two creeks flowing through the historically contaminated area that have been identified as major contributors of metals to downstream reservoirs, Center Creek (14 samples) and Turkey Creek (30 samples). Sediment metal content was determined by aqua regia extraction, the potentially bioavailable fraction by 0.11 M acetic acid extraction, and toxicity by ΣPEC-QCd,Pb,Zn. Zinc and lead content in sediments were high in both creeks notwithstanding remediation actions; e.g., median concentrations of 521 mg/kg Pb and 5425 mg/kg Zn in Center Creek, corresponding to 19 and 52 times the background concentration. The metals’ distribution followed no discernible pattern downstream. The potentially bioavailable fraction varied between 0.36% (Pb, Center Creek) and 4.96% (Zn, Turkey Creek). High toxicity was found in 40% of the samples in Turkey Creek and 78.5% of the samples in Center Creek. While this level of toxicity would likely affect aquatic organisms, its limited mobility under alkaline conditions suggests a lesser threat to humans. On the other hand, this high toxicity will likely persist in sediments for at least a few decades, based on their high metal content and low mobility.
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Bourliva A, Papadopoulou L, da Silva EF, Patinha C. In vitro assessment of oral and respiratory bioaccesibility of trace elements of environmental concern in Greek fly ashes: Assessing health risk via ingestion and inhalation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 704:135324. [PMID: 31837861 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Fly ash engender significant environmental and human health problems due to enhanced contents of potentially harmful trace elements (TrElems). This study aims to evaluate human exposure to TrElems via a combined ingestion (i.e., oral bioaccessibility) and inhalation (i.e., respiratory bioaccessibility) pathway. Five fly ash samples were collected from power plants operating in the main lignite basins of Greece, while the ingestible (<250 μm) and inhalable (<10 μm) particle size fractions were utilized. The Unified Bioaccessibility Method (UBM) was utilized to assess the oral bioaccessibility, while the respiratory bioaccessible fractions were extracted using the Artificial Lysosomal Fluid (ALF). All studied FAs exhibited significantly higher contents in Ba, Cr, Ni, V and Zn. Cadmium was presented relative enriched in the finer size fraction (<10 μm), while Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni and V were depleted. The UBM-extractable concentrations fluctuated greatly among the studied FAs, while notably lower bioaccessible contents were recorded in the gastrointestinal phase. On the other hand, ALF-extractable concentrations were surprisingly higher than the corresponding UBM-extractable ones in the gastric phase. The oral bioaccessibility of the studied TrElems ranged from 12.5 to 100%, while respiratory bioaccessibility presented high values exceeding 45% on average. A significant effect of fly ash type on human bioaccessibility was revealed. Thus, high-Ca FAs exhibited significantly higher bioaccessibility of the studied TrElems via ingestion, while a relatively higher bioaccessibility via inhalation was observed for high-Si FAs. Regarding non-carcinogenic health risk via ingestion and inhalation, Cr and Co exhibited the highest HQing and HQinh values, however there were significantly lower than safe level (HQ < 1). On the contrary, Cr was the dominant contributor to carcinogenic risk with CR values being well above threshold or even tolerable risk levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bourliva
- School of Geology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Lambrini Papadopoulou
- Department of Mineralogy-Petrology-Economic Geology, School of Geology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eduardo Ferreira da Silva
- GEOBIOTEC, Department of Geoscience, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carla Patinha
- GEOBIOTEC, Department of Geoscience, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Zhong L, Liu X, Hu X, Chen Y, Wang H, Lian HZ. In vitro inhalation bioaccessibility procedures for lead in PM 2.5 size fraction of soil assessed and optimized by in vivo-in vitro correlation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 381:121202. [PMID: 31550658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In order to assess and optimize frequently used in vitro inhalation bioaccessibility procedures for heavy metals in the inhalation risk assessment, in vivo inhalation bioavailability of Pb in simulated atmosphere fine particles (PM2.5) from aging soils spiked with lead compounds and field soils in lead-zinc mining areas was investigated via intranasally instilled experiments with these PM2.5 suspensions to mice and Pb bioaccessibility was extracted by using four frequently used in vitro procedures (Gamble Solution, simulated lung fluid, simulated epithelial lung fluid and artificial lysosomal fluid). Mouse exposure experiments showed that Pb was mainly distributed in the liver, kidneys, blood and spleen. Based on the kidney model, in vitro inhalation bioaccessibility of Pb extracted with optimized Gamble Solution, in which solid to liquid ratio (S/L) was optimized to 1:1000 g ml-1 and DTPA was proved to be the key effective component, showed a strong linear relationship with its in vivo inhalation bioavailability (y = 1.07x - 3.86, R2 = 0.73). Moreover, in vitro bioaccessible and bioavailable fractions of Pb were mainly from acid exchangeable and reducible fractions of Pb in PM2.5. Altogether, optimized Gamble Solution was suggested for the analysis of in vitro bioaccessibility for risk-based assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laijin Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Centre of Materials Analysis, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Xiaolan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Centre of Materials Analysis, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Xin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Centre of Materials Analysis, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
| | - Yijun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Centre of Materials Analysis, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Hong-Zhen Lian
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Centre of Materials Analysis, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
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Gosselin M, Zagury GJ. Metal(loid)s inhalation bioaccessibility and oxidative potential of particulate matter from chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-contaminated soils. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 238:124557. [PMID: 31422311 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Field-collected chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-contaminated soils and associated particulate matter (PM) were characterized for their total metal(loid)s content (As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) and physicochemical properties. Copper, Ni, Pb and Zn fractionation (using sequential extraction) and inhalation bioaccessibility (using two lung fluids) of trace elements were assessed in PM samples. In Gamble's solution (GS), low average bioaccessibility (up to 12%) was observed for As, Cu, Mn, and Ni. A strong correlation (r = 0.92, p < 0.005, n = 9) between the soluble and exchangeable fraction (F1) and bioaccessibility in GS was observed for Cu. Inhalation bioaccessibility in artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF) was higher for Cu (avg. 78.5 ± 4.2%), Mn (avg. 56.8 ± 12.1%), Zn (avg. 54.8 ± 24.5%) and As (avg. 45.4 ± 18.8%). Strong correlations between inhalation bioaccessibility in ALF and the mobile (i.e. F1+F2) metal fraction were observed for all tested metals (i.e. (Cu (r = 0.95, p < 0.005), Ni (r = 0.79, p < 0.05), Pb (r = 0.92, p < 0.005) and Zn (r = 0.98, p < 0.005)), n = 9). The oxidative potential (OP) of PM was also assessed using an ascorbate (AA) depletion assay (OPAA). Mobile Cu fractions were deemed to be the main factor influencing OPAA ((F1 (r = 0.99, p < 0.005), F2 (r = 0.97, p < 0.005)), n = 9) in PM samples. A strong correlation (r = 0.94, p < 0.005, n = 10) was also observed between Cu bioaccessibility in GS and OPAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Gosselin
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal (QC), H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Gerald J Zagury
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal (QC), H3C 3A7, Canada.
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White SJO, Hemond HF. Emerging investigator series: atmospheric cycling of indium in the northeastern United States. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2019; 21:623-634. [PMID: 30920568 DOI: 10.1039/c8em00485d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Indium is critical to the global economy and is used in an increasing number of electronics and new energy technologies. However, little is known about its environmental behavior or impacts, including its concentrations or cycling in the atmosphere. This study determined indium concentrations in air particulate matter at five locations across the northeastern United States over the course of one year, in 1995. Historical records from a Massachusetts bog core showed that indium atmospheric concentrations in this region changed only modestly between 1995 and 2010. Atmospheric indium concentrations varied significantly both geographically and temporally, with average concentrations in PM3 of 2.1 ± 1.6 pg m-3 (1 standard deviation), and average particle-normalized concentrations of 0.2 ± 0.2 μg In per g PM3. Peaks in the particle-normalized concentrations in two New York sites were correlated with wind direction; air coming from the north contributed higher concentrations of indium than air coming from the west. This correlation, along with measurements of indium in zinc smelter emissions and coal fly ash, suggests that indium in the atmosphere in the northeastern United States comes from a relatively constant low-level input from coal combustion in the midwest, and higher but more sporadic contributions from the smelting of lead, zinc, copper, tin, and nickel north of the New York sample sites. Understanding the industrial sources of indium to the atmosphere and how they compare with natural sources can lead to a better understanding of the impact of human activities on the indium cycle, and may help to establish a baseline for monitoring future impacts as indium use grows.
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Mobility of Metals in Sediments Contaminated with Historical Mining Wastes: Example from the Tri-State Mining District, USA. SOIL SYSTEMS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/soilsystems3010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Tri-State Mining District (TSMD) of Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma was a world class zinc (Zn) and lead (Pb) producer. Mining ceased in the 1950s, leaving behind a large amount of mine wastes. Although much of the affected areas have been remediated, stream sediments may still contain toxic levels of these metals. The mobility of the metals was determined for sediment samples from Turkey Creek, Missouri. The median values of the metal content were 2700 mg/kg Zn, 161 mg/kg Pb, and 10.8 mg/kg Cd. These concentrations marginally surpass the sediment quality guidelines that differentiate between toxic and nontoxic conditions. Mobility was determined by sequential extraction of two phases—bioavailable and Fe-oxides. The fraction of the metal available to biota was 7.7% for Zn, 5.0% for Cd, and 0.4% for Pb, whereas the Fe-oxide fraction retained 25% of Zn, 21% of Pb, and 35% Cd. These values roughly agree with the values reported for other areas of the TSMD. Fractionation provides an estimate of the amount of metal available at the present conditions and gives the amount of metal available should the pH and/or Eh vary. The methodology puts an emphasis on ecosystem health and can be applied to other areas where Zn–Pb concentrations in soils and sediments are a concern.
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Li R, Tang C, Li X, Jiang T, Shi Y, Cao Y. Reconstructing the historical pollution levels and ecological risks over the past sixty years in sediments of the Beijiang River, South China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 649:448-460. [PMID: 30179810 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.08.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Three sediment cores were collected from the Beijiang River to investigate the effects of human activities on the geochemical fractions of trace metals (Ni, Cr, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and Fe) and to reconstruct the ecological risks for the period 1951-2015. Cd had the highest concentration in exchangeable and carbonate fractions and was probably contributed by smelting wastewater. High Cu, Zn and Pb contents were observed in the iron oxide fraction (mean values of 32.2%, 38.2% and 43.9%, respectively), reflecting the influence of mining activities. Flood events led to coarser sediment grain sizes and higher trace metal residual fractions at upstream sites (S1 and S2). Similar to the mining history of the basin, the excess metal fluxes of Cu, Zn, Pb, and Fe in the 210Pb-dating core (S3) increased slowly from 1951 to 1987, increased rapidly from 1988 to 1998 and decreased gradually after 1999 because of government intervention. However, the excess Cd flux decreased continuously from 1951 to 1961, increased from 1961 to 2005, and declined by approximately 78.2% from 2005 to 2014. The excess Ni and Cr fluxes increased noticeably after 1996 because of the increasing sedimentation rate after the construction of the Feilai Gorge Dam. The enrichment factor (EF) and ratio of secondary and primary phases (RSP) indicated that sediments (S3) were moderately to strongly polluted by Cu, Zn and Pb from 1961 to 2007 and extremely polluted by Cd from 1951 to 2011. Human activities increased the bioavailable metal concentrations and resulted in a high risk of toxicity to benthic organisms, especially during intense mining activity (1990s) and Cd pollution incidents (2005). Cd and Pb were primarily responsible for the sediment toxicity in the Beijiang River. The integrated pollution and risk assessment methods provided a clearer understanding of the aquatic environmental quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135 Xingangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Changyuan Tang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135 Xingangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
| | - Xing Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135 Xingangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
| | - Tao Jiang
- School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135 Xingangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
| | - Yanping Shi
- School of Economics and Statistics, Guangzhou University, No. 230 Waihuanxi Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Yingjie Cao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135 Xingangxi Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
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Synergistic Mechanism of Rare-Earth Modification TiO2 and Photodegradation on Benzohydroxamic Acid. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app9020339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Rare earth elements are plentiful in Gannan area, China, and there is a large amount of wastewater from all kinds of mines. In this paper, rare-earth modification TiO2 composites (RE/TiO2, RE = La, Ce, Gd, Yb) was studied by theory computation and experimental performance. The prepared RE/TiO2 was investigated for the degradation of benzohydroxamic acid (BHA) as a typical residual reagent in wastewater from beneficiation. The crystallinity, morphology, specific surface area, light absorption, and composition of compound were investigated by various techniques. As a result of computation and experimentation, four different electron configurations of rare earth all retained the anatase phase of TiO2 and reduced the band gap of TiO2 to some degree compared with pure TiO2. Different rare-earth elements and calcination temperatures resulted in different removal effects on BHA. The optimum doping contents were 0.75% (500 °C), 0.20% (500 °C), 0.70% (500 °C) and 0.50% (450 °C) for La, Ce, Gd, Yb respectively. All the RE/TiO2 composites studied in this research still possessed good photoactivity after four runs, which supports the theoretical and practical basement for the photocatalytic treatment of mining and metallurgy wastewater.
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Vriens B, Peterson H, Laurenzi L, Smith L, Aranda C, Mayer KU, Beckie RD. Long-term monitoring of waste-rock weathering at the Antamina mine, Peru. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 215:858-869. [PMID: 30408882 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.10.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The weathering of mine waste rock can cause release of metal-laden and acidic drainage that requires long-term and costly environmental management. To identify and quantify the geochemical processes and physical transport mechanisms controlling drainage quality, we monitored the weathering of five large-scale (20,000 t) instrumented waste-rock piles of variable and mixed-composition at the Antamina mine, Peru, in a decade-long monitoring program. Fine-grained, sulfidic waste rock with low-carbonate content exhibited high sulfide oxidation rates (>1 g S kg-1 waste rock yr-1) and within 7 years produced acidic (pH < 3) drainage with high Cu and Zn concentrations in the g L-1 range. In contrast, drainage from coarse, carbonate-rich waste rock remained neutral for >10 years and had significantly lower metal loads. Efficient metal retention (>99%) caused by sorption and secondary mineral formation of e.g., gypsum, Fe-(oxy)hydroxides, and Cu/Zn-hydroxysulfates enforced strong (temporary) controls on drainage quality. Furthermore, reactive waste-rock fractions, as small as 10% of total mass, dominated the overall drainage chemistry from the waste-rock piles through internal mixing. This study demonstrates that a reliable prediction of the timing and quality of waste-rock drainage on practice-relevant spatiotemporal scales requires a quantitative understanding of the prevailing in-situ porewater conditions, secondary mineralogy, and spatial distribution of reactive waste-rock fractions in composite piles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bas Vriens
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2020-2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Holly Peterson
- Department of Geology, Guilford College, 5800 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC, 27403, USA
| | - Laura Laurenzi
- BGC Engineering Inc., 500-980 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1N9, Canada
| | - Leslie Smith
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2020-2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Celedonio Aranda
- Compañia Antamina Minera S.A., Av. El Derby No. 055, Santiago de Surco, Lima, Peru
| | - K Ulrich Mayer
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2020-2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Roger D Beckie
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2020-2207 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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Kastury F, Smith E, Karna RR, Scheckel KG, Juhasz AL. Methodological factors influencing inhalation bioaccessibility of metal(loid)s in PM 2.5 using simulated lung fluid. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 241:930-937. [PMID: 29929159 PMCID: PMC6517839 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.05.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In this study, methodological factors influencing the dissolution of metal(loid)s in simulated lung fluid (SLF) was assessed in order to develop a standardised method for the assessment of inhalation bioaccessibility in PM2.5. To achieve this aim, the effects of solid to liquid (S/L) ratio (1:100 to 1:5000), agitation (magnetic agitation, occasional shaking, orbital and end-over-end rotation), composition of SLF (artificial lysosomal fluid: ALF; phagolysosomal simulant fluid: PSF) and extraction time (1-120 h) on metal(loid) bioaccessibility were investigated using PM2.5 from three Australian mining/smelting impacted soils and a certified reference material. The results highlighted that SLF composition significantly (p < 0.001) influenced metal(loid) bioaccessibility and that when a S/L ratio of 1:5000 and end-over-end rotation was used, metal(loid) solubility plateaued after approximately 24 h. Additionally, in order to assess the exposure of metal(loid)s via incidental ingestion of surface dust, PM2.5 was subjected to simulated gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) solutions and the results were compared to extraction using SLF. Although As bioaccessibility in SLF (24 h) was significantly lower than in simulated GIT solutions (p < 0.05), Pb bioaccessibility was equal to or significantly higher than that extracted using simulated GIT solutions (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzana Kastury
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia.
| | - E Smith
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Ranju R Karna
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA; United States Environmental Protection Agency, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Land and Material Management Division, Research and Technology Evaluation Branch, Cincinnati, OH 45224-1701, USA
| | - Kirk G Scheckel
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Land and Material Management Division, Research and Technology Evaluation Branch, Cincinnati, OH 45224-1701, USA
| | - A L Juhasz
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
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Temporal Variation and Ecological Risk Assessment of Metals in Soil Nearby a Pb⁻Zn Mine in Southern China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15050940. [PMID: 29747376 PMCID: PMC5981979 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15050940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Metal contamination in soil from tailings induces risks for the ecosystem and for humans. In this study, the concentrations and ecological risks of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn in soil contaminated by a tailing from Yangshuo (YS) lead and zinc (Pb–Zn) mine, which collapsed for more than 40 years, were determined in 2015. The mean concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cu, and Cd were 1301.79, 768.41, 82.60, and 4.82 mg/kg, respectively, which, with years of remediation activities, decreased by 66.9%, 61.7%, 65.4%, and 65.3% since 1986, but still exceed the national standards. From 1986 to 2015, soil pH increased significantly, with available concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cu and Cd decreasing by 13%, 81%, 77%, and 67%, respectively, and potential ecological risk indexes (Er) of the determined metals decreasing by more than 60%. Horizontally, total contents and percentages of available concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cu, and Cd decreased with the distance from the tailing heap in SD village, while pH values showed the reverse pattern. Vertically, Zn and Cd, Pb, and Cu showed similar vertical distribution patterns in the soil profiles. There was a slight downward migration for the determined metals in soil of M and H area and the mobility was in the order of Cd > Zn > Pb > Cu. It can be concluded that although concentrations and ecological risks of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn in soil decreased significantly, SD village is still a high risk area, and the priority pollutant is Cd.
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Abraham J, Dowling K, Florentine S. Controlled burn and immediate mobilization of potentially toxic elements in soil, from a legacy mine site in Central Victoria, Australia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 616-617:1022-1034. [PMID: 29107365 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.10.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Conducting controlled burns in fire prone areas is an efficient and economic method for forest management, and provides relief from the incidence of high severity wild fires and the consequent damage to human property and ecosystems. However, similar to wild fires, controlled burns also affect many of the physical and biogeochemical properties of the forest soil and may facilitate remobilization of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) sequestered in vegetation and soil organic matter. The objective of the current study is to investigate the mobilization of PTEs, in Central Victorian forest soils in Australia after a controlled burn. Surface soil samples were collected two days before and after the controlled burn to determine the concentration of PTEs and to examine the physicochemical properties. Results show that As, Cd, Mn, Ni and Zn concentrations increased 1.1, 1.6, 1.7, 1.1 and 1.9 times respectively in the post-burn environment, whereas the concentrations of Hg, Cr and Pb decreased to 0.7, 0.9 and 0.9 times respectively, highlighting considerable PTE mobility during and after a controlled burn. Whilst these results do not identify very strong correlations between physicochemical properties of soil and PTEs in the pre- and post-burn environments, PTEs themselves demonstrated very strong and significant correlations. The mobilization of As, Hg and other toxic elements raise potential health concerns as the number of controlled burns are projected to increase in response to climate change. Due to this increased level of PTE release and remobilization, the use of any kinds of controlled burn must be carefully considered before being used as a forest management strategy in mining-affected landscapes which include areas with high PTE concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joji Abraham
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3353, Australia.
| | - Kim Dowling
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3353, Australia
| | - Singarayer Florentine
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3353, Australia
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Pelfrêne A, Douay F. Assessment of oral and lung bioaccessibility of Cd and Pb from smelter-impacted dust. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:3718-3730. [PMID: 29168133 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0760-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Soil and dust contamination by metals engenders significant environmental and health problems in northern France where a lead smelter was in activity for more than a century. This study aims to examine the long-term effects of the smelter, 10 years after its closedown, on the presence of metal in sidewalk dust for a better assessment of the local population's exposure to Cd and Pb. The investigation included: (i) the metal distribution in different dust particle sizes and (ii) the assessment of metal bioaccessibility via ingestion and inhalation of dust. Seventy-two sidewalk dust samples were collected using a dust-sampling vacuum. The samples were sieved to collect different particle sizes from 0.3 to 1000 μm. The unified bioaccessibility method (UBM) was employed to evaluate the oral bioaccessibility of metals in the different particle sizes. The pulmonary bioaccessible fraction of Cd and Pb via the finest particles was extracted with lung-simulating solution (artificial lysosomal fluid). Ten years after the smelter closedown, (i) a strong relationship was observed between the concentrations of metals in dust and the distance to the former smelter, whatever the particle size; (ii) both total and oral bioaccessible concentrations of metals were high in the finest fraction (0.3-5 μm) and decreased when the particle size increased; (iii) a higher oral bioaccessibility of Cd and Pb was measured in the gastric phase (on average 43% for both metals for all particle sizes) and compared to the gastrointestinal phase (on average 16% for both metals for all particle sizes); and (iv) metal bioaccessibility via inhalation of dust was relatively high (on average 74 and 69%, for Cd and Pb, respectively). The results of the present study suggest that this environmental compartment may be a sensitive and effective indicator of anthropogenic metal contamination and the human exposure in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Pelfrêne
- Laboratoire Génie Civil et géo-Environnement (LGCgE), ISA Lille, Yncréa Hauts-de-France, 48 Boulevard Vauban, BP 41290, 59014, Lille Cedex, France.
| | - Francis Douay
- Laboratoire Génie Civil et géo-Environnement (LGCgE), ISA Lille, Yncréa Hauts-de-France, 48 Boulevard Vauban, BP 41290, 59014, Lille Cedex, France
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Abraham J, Dowling K, Florentine S. Assessment of potentially toxic metal contamination in the soils of a legacy mine site in Central Victoria, Australia. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 192:122-132. [PMID: 29100120 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.10.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The environmental impact of toxic metal contamination from legacy mining activities, many of which had operated and were closed prior to the enforcement of robust environmental legislation, is of growing concern to modern society. We have carried out analysis of As and potentially toxic metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in the surface soil of a legacy gold mining site in Maldon, Victoria, Australia, to reveal the status of the current metal concentration. The results revealed the median concentrations of metals from highest to lowest, in the order: Mn > Zn > As > Cr > Cu > Pb > Ni > Co > Hg > Cd. The status of site was assessed directly by comparing the metal concentrations in the study area with known Australian and Victorian average top soil levels and the health investigation levels set by the National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPM) and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) of the State of Western Australia. Although, median concentrations of As, Hg, Pb, Cu and Zn exceeded the average Australian and Victorian top soil concentrations, only As and Hg exceeded the ecological investigation levels (EIL) set by DEC and thus these metals are considered as risk to the human and aquatic ecosystems health due to their increase in concentration and toxicity. In an environment of climate fluctuation with increased storm events and forest fires may mobilize these toxic metals contaminants, pose a real threat to the environment and the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joji Abraham
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC, 3353, Australia.
| | - Kim Dowling
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC, 3353, Australia
| | - Singarayer Florentine
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC, 3353, Australia
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Abraham J, Dowling K, Florentine S. Risk of post-fire metal mobilization into surface water resources: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 599-600:1740-1755. [PMID: 28535601 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.05.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
One of the significant economic benefits to communities around the world of having pristine forest catchments is the supply of substantial quantities of high quality potable water. This supports a saving of around US$ 4.1 trillion per year globally by limiting the cost of expensive drinking water treatments and provision of unnecessary infrastructure. Even low levels of contaminants specifically organics and metals in catchments when in a mobile state can reduce these economic benefits by seriously affecting the water quality. Contamination and contaminant mobility can occur through natural and anthropogenic activities including forest fires. Moderate to high intensity forest fires are able to alter soil properties and release sequestered metals from sediments, soil organic matter and fragments of vegetation. In addition, the increase in post-fire erosion rate by rainfall runoff and strong winds facilitates the rapid transport of these metals downslope and downstream. The subsequent metal deposition in distal soil and water bodies can influence surface water quality with potential impacts to the larger ecosystems inclusive of negative effects on humans. This is of substantial concern as 4 billion hectares of forest catchments provide high quality water to global communities. Redressing this problem requires quantification of the potential effects on water resources and instituting rigorous fire and environmental management plans to mitigate deleterious effects on catchment areas. This paper is a review of the current state of the art literature dealing with the risk of post-fire mobilization of the metals into surface water resources. It is intended to inform discussion on the preparation of suitable management plans and policies during and after fire events in order to maintain potable water quality in a cost-effective manner. In these times of climate fluctuation and increased incidence of fires, the need for development of new policies and management frameworks are of heighted significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joji Abraham
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3350, Australia.
| | - Kim Dowling
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Singarayer Florentine
- School of Applied and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen Campus, VIC 3350, Australia
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Claus Henn B, Bellinger DC, Hopkins MR, Coull BA, Ettinger AS, Jim R, Hatley E, Christiani DC, Wright RO. Maternal and Cord Blood Manganese Concentrations and Early Childhood Neurodevelopment among Residents near a Mining-Impacted Superfund Site. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:067020. [PMID: 28665786 PMCID: PMC5743453 DOI: 10.1289/ehp925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental manganese exposure has been associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes among school-aged children; yet, few studies have evaluated prenatal exposure. OBJECTIVES Our study examines associations between prenatal manganese concentrations and placental transfer of manganese with neurodevelopment in 224 2-y-old children residing near the Tar Creek Superfund Site. METHODS We collected maternal and cord blood at delivery, measured manganese using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and assessed neurodevelopment using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II. Associations between manganese and mental (MDI) and psychomotor (PDI) development indices were estimated in multivariable models. Placental transfer, approximated by cord/maternal manganese ratio, cord/total manganese ratio (total=maternal+cord), and by joint classification according to high or low (above or below median) maternal and cord manganese, was evaluated as a predictor of neurodevelopment. RESULTS Median levels [interquartile ranges (IQR)] of manganese in maternal and cord blood, respectively, were 24.0 (19.5-29.7) and 43.1 (33.5-52.1) μg/L. Adjusting for lead, arsenic, and other potential confounders, an IQR increase in maternal manganese was associated with -3.0 (95% CI: -5.3, -0.7) points on MDI and -2.3 (95% CI: -4.1, -0.4) points on PDI. Cord manganese concentrations were not associated with neurodevelopment scores. Cord/maternal and cord/total manganese ratios were positively associated with MDI [cord/maternal: β=2.6 (95% Cl: −0.04, 5.3); cord/total: β=22.0 (95% Cl: 3.2, 40.7)] and PDI (cord/maternal: β=1.7 (95% Cl: −0.5, 3.9); cord/total: β=15.6 (95% Cl: 0.3, 20.9)). Compared to mother-child pairs with low maternal and cord manganese, associations with neurodevelopment scores were negative for pairs with either high maternal, high cord, or high maternal and cord manganese. CONCLUSIONS Maternal blood manganese concentrations were negatively associated with early childhood neurodevelopment scores in our study. Findings highlight the importance of understanding maternal exposures during pregnancy and factors influencing placental transfer. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP925.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David C Bellinger
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marianne R Hopkins
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brent A Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adrienne S Ettinger
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rebecca Jim
- Local Environmental Action Demanded (L.E.A.D.) Agency, Inc., Vinita, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Earl Hatley
- Local Environmental Action Demanded (L.E.A.D.) Agency, Inc., Vinita, Oklahoma, USA
| | - David C Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert O Wright
- Division of Environmental Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Beattie RE, Henke W, Davis C, Mottaleb MA, Campbell JH, McAliley LR. Quantitative analysis of the extent of heavy-metal contamination in soils near Picher, Oklahoma, within the Tar Creek Superfund Site. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 172:89-95. [PMID: 28063319 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.12.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Tri-State Mining District of Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma was the site of large-scale mining operations primarily for lead and zinc until the mid-1950s. Although mining across the area has ceased, high concentrations of heavy metals remain in the region's soil and water systems. The town of Picher, Ottawa County, OK, lies within this district and was included in the Tar Creek Superfund Site by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1980 due to extensive contamination. To elucidate the extent of heavy-metal contamination, a soil-chemistry survey of the town of Picher was conducted. Samples (n = 111) were collected from mine tailings, locally known as chat, in Picher and along cardinal-direction transects within an 8.05-km radius of the town in August 2015. Samples were analyzed for soil pH, moisture, and metal content. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) analyses of 20 metals showed high concentrations of lead (>1000 ppm), cadmium (>40 ppm) and zinc (>4000 ppm) throughout the sampled region. Soil moisture content ranged from 0.30 to 35.9%, and pH values ranged from 5.14 to 7.42. MANOVA of metal profiles determined that soils collected from the north transect and chat were significantly different (p < 0.01) than other sampled directions. Lead, cadmium and zinc were correlated with one another. These data show an unequal distribution of contamination surrounding the Picher mining site. Mapping heavy-metal contamination in these soils represents the first step in understanding the distribution of these contaminants at the Picher mining site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle E Beattie
- Department of Natural Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA.
| | - Wyatt Henke
- Department of Natural Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA.
| | - Conor Davis
- Department of Natural Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA.
| | - M Abdul Mottaleb
- Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA.
| | - James H Campbell
- Department of Natural Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA.
| | - L Rex McAliley
- Department of Natural Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO 64468, USA.
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Alpofead JAH, Davidson CM, Littlejohn D. A novel two-step sequential bioaccessibility test for potentially toxic elements in inhaled particulate matter transported into the gastrointestinal tract by mucociliary clearance. Anal Bioanal Chem 2017; 409:3165-3174. [PMID: 28235993 PMCID: PMC5395599 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-017-0257-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A novel two-step sequential extraction has been developed to assess the bioaccessibility of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn in airborne particulate matter following inhalation and transport into the human gastrointestinal tract by mucociliary clearance. A new artificial mucus fluid (AMF) was used to determine the bioaccessible potentially toxic element (PTE) fraction in the upper airways, in sequence with the simplified bioaccessibility extraction test (SBET) or the stomach phase of the unified bioaccessibility method (gastric fluid only) (UBMG). Filter dynamic measurement system TX40 filters smeared with soil reference material (BGS RM 102) were used as test samples. Analysis was performed by ICP-MS. Comparison between results obtained for soil alone and when the soil was supported on TX40 filters indicated that the presence of the substrate did not affect the extraction efficiency, although a large Zn blank was detected. The sequential AMF→SBET extraction liberated similar amounts of Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn to the SBET alone; but significantly less Cd; and significantly more As, Cr, Cu and Pb. The sequential AMF→UBMG extraction liberated similar amounts of Cd, Cr, Mn and Zn to the UBMG alone, but significantly less As, Fe and Ni; and significantly more Cu and Pb. Enhanced extractability was due to the greater quantities of exchangeable ions and complexing agents present. Adoption of a two-step sequential extraction (AMF followed by either the SBET or the UBMG) is recommended because it is more representative of biological conditions and avoids overestimation or underestimation of bioaccessible PTE concentrations. Simulated PM10 sample: BGS RM 102 ironstone soil on TX40 filter ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Ali Hussein Alpofead
- WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G1 1XL, UK
| | - Christine M Davidson
- WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G1 1XL, UK.
| | - David Littlejohn
- WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G1 1XL, UK
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Guney M, Bourges CMJ, Chapuis RP, Zagury GJ. Lung bioaccessibility of As, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in fine fraction (<20μm) from contaminated soils and mine tailings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 579:378-386. [PMID: 27887839 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study aims (1) to characterize contaminated soils (n=6) and mine tailings samples (n=3) for As, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn content; and (2) to assess elemental lung bioaccessibility in fine fraction (d<20μm which might contribute to airborne particulate matter (PM) and thus be inhaled) by means of in vitro tests using Gamble's solution (GS) and an artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF). Elemental concentrations were high in the majority of samples, particularly for As (up to 2040mg·kg-1), Fe (up to 30.7%), Mn (up to 4360mg·kg-1), and Zn (up to 4060mg·kg-1); and elemental concentrations (As, Cu, and Ni) in the sieved fraction (d<20μm) obtained from contaminated soils were significantly higher than in the bulk fraction (<160μm). In vitro tests with ALF yielded much higher bioaccessibility than tests with GS, and the use of ALF in addition to GS is recommended to assess lung bioaccessibility. Bioaccessibility in ALF was high for all elements after 2weeks of testing both in terms of concentration (e.g. up to 1730mg·kg-1 for As) and percentages (e.g. up to 81% for Pb). The elemental solubilization rate generally declined rapidly and continuously with time. Similarly, bioaccessibility increased rapidly and tended to reach a plateau with time for most samples and metals. However, it is not possible to recommend a general testing duration as the solubilization behavior was highly element and sample-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mert Guney
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, H3C 3A7 Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Clothilde M-J Bourges
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, H3C 3A7 Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert P Chapuis
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, H3C 3A7 Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gerald J Zagury
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, H3C 3A7 Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Pelfrêne A, Cave MR, Wragg J, Douay F. In Vitro Investigations of Human Bioaccessibility from Reference Materials Using Simulated Lung Fluids. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:E112. [PMID: 28125027 PMCID: PMC5334666 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14020112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
An investigation for assessing pulmonary bioaccessibility of metals from reference materials is presented using simulated lung fluids. The objective of this paper was to contribute to an enhanced understanding of airborne particulate matter and its toxic potential following inhalation. A large set of metallic elements (Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn) was investigated using three lung fluids (phosphate-buffered saline, Gamble's solution and artificial lysosomal fluid) on three standard reference materials representing different types of particle sources. Composition of the leaching solution and four solid-to-liquid (S/L) ratios were tested. The results showed that bioaccessibility was speciation- (i.e., distribution) and element-dependent, with percentages varying from 0.04% for Pb to 86.0% for Cd. The higher extraction of metallic elements was obtained with the artificial lysosomal fluid, in which a relative stability of bioaccessibility was observed in a large range of S/L ratios from 1/1000 to 1/10,000. For further investigations, it is suggested that this method be used to assess lung bioaccessibility of metals from smelter-impacted dusts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Pelfrêne
- Laboratoire Génie Civil et géo-Environnement (LGCgE), ISA Lille, Yncréa Hauts-de-France, 48 Boulevard Vauban, Lille Cedex 59046, France.
| | - Mark R Cave
- British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK.
| | - Joanna Wragg
- British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK.
| | - Francis Douay
- Laboratoire Génie Civil et géo-Environnement (LGCgE), ISA Lille, Yncréa Hauts-de-France, 48 Boulevard Vauban, Lille Cedex 59046, France.
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47
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Kastury F, Smith E, Juhasz AL. A critical review of approaches and limitations of inhalation bioavailability and bioaccessibility of metal(loid)s from ambient particulate matter or dust. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 574:1054-1074. [PMID: 27672736 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Inhalation of metal(loid)s in ambient particulate matter (APM) represents a significant exposure pathway to humans. Although exposure assessment associated with this pathway is currently based on total metal(loid) content, a bioavailability (i.e. absorption in the systemic circulation) and/or bioaccessibility (i.e. solubility in simulated lung fluid) based approach may more accurately quantify exposure. Metal(loid) bioavailability-bioaccessibility assessment from APM is inherently complex and lacks consensus. This paper reviews the discrepancies that impede the adoption of a universal protocol for the assessment of inhalation bioaccessibility. Exposure assessment approaches for in-vivo bioavailability, in-vitro cell culture and in-vitro bioaccessibility (composition of simulated lungs fluid, physico-chemical and methodological considerations) are critiqued in the context of inhalation exposure refinement. An important limitation of bioavailability and bioaccessibility studies is the use of considerably higher than environmental metal(loid) concentration, which diminishing their relevance to human exposure scenarios. Similarly, individual metal(loid) studies have been criticised due to complexities of APM metal(loid) mixtures which may impart synergistic or antagonistic effects compared to single metal(loid) exposure. Although a number of different simulated lung fluid (SLF) compositions have been used in metal(loid) bioaccessibility studies, information regarding the comparative leaching efficiency among these different SLF and comparisons to in-vivo bioavailability data is lacking. In addition, the particle size utilised is often not representative of what is deposited in the lungs while assay parameters (extraction time, solid to liquid ratio, temperature and agitation) are often not biologically relevant. Research needs are identified in order to develop robust in-vitro bioaccessibility protocols for the assessment or prediction of metal(loid) bioavailability in APM for the refinement of inhalation exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzana Kastury
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia.
| | - Euan Smith
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Albert L Juhasz
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia
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48
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Guney M, Chapuis RP, Zagury GJ. Lung bioaccessibility of contaminants in particulate matter of geological origin. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:24422-24434. [PMID: 27080406 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6623-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to particulate matter (PM) has been associated with adverse health effects. While inhalation exposure to airborne PM is a prominent research subject, exposure to PM of geological origin (i.e., generated from soil/soil-like material) has received less attention. This review discusses the contaminants in PM of geological origin and their relevance for human exposure and then evaluates lung bioaccessibility assessment methods and their use. PM of geological origin can contain toxic elements as well as organic contaminants. Observed/predicted PM lung clearance times are long, which may lead to prolonged contact with lung environment. Thus, certain exposure scenarios warrant the use of in vitro bioaccessibility testing to predict lung bioavailability. Limited research is available on lung bioaccessibility test development and test application to PM of geological origin. For in vitro tests, test parameter variation between different studies and concerns about physiological relevance indicate a crucial need for test method standardization and comparison with relevant animal data. Research is recommended on (1) developing robust in vitro lung bioaccessibility methods, (2) assessing bioaccessibility of various contaminants (especially polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)) in PM of diverse origin (surface soils, mine tailings, etc.), and (3) risk characterization to determine relative importance of exposure to PM of geological origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mert Guney
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Robert P Chapuis
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Gerald J Zagury
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3A7, Canada.
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49
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Rodriguez-Freire L, Avasarala S, Ali AMS, Agnew D, Hoover JH, Artyushkova K, Latta DE, Peterson EJ, Lewis J, Crossey LJ, Brearley AJ, Cerrato JM. Post Gold King Mine Spill Investigation of Metal Stability in Water and Sediments of the Animas River Watershed. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:11539-11548. [PMID: 27704799 PMCID: PMC5568564 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b03092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
We applied spectroscopy, microscopy, diffraction, and aqueous chemistry methods to investigate the persistence of metals in water and sediments from the Animas River 13 days after the Gold King Mine spill (August 5, 2015). The Upper Animas River watershed, located in San Juan Colorado, is heavily mineralized and impacted by acid mine drainage, with low pH water and elevated metal concentrations in sediments (108.4 ± 1.8 mg kg-1 Pb, 32.4 ± 0.5 mg kg-1 Cu, 729.6 ± 5.7 mg kg-1 Zn, and 51 314.6 ± 295.4 mg kg-1 Fe). Phosphate and nitrogen species were detected in water and sediment samples from Farmington, New Mexico, an intensive agricultural area downstream from the Animas River, while metal concentrations were low compared to those observed upstream. Solid-phase analyses of sediments suggest that Pb, Cu, and Zn are associated with metal-bearing jarosite and other minerals (e.g., clays, Fe-(oxy)hydroxides). The solubility of jarosite at near-neutral pH and biogeochemical processes occurring downstream could affect the stability of metal-bearing minerals in river sediments. This study contributes relevant information about the association of metal mixtures in a heavy mineralized semiarid region, providing a foundation to better understand long-term metal release in a public and agricultural water supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Rodriguez-Freire
- Department of Civil Engineering, MSC01 1070, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Sumant Avasarala
- Department of Civil Engineering, MSC01 1070, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Abdul-Mehdi S. Ali
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, MSC03 2040, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Diane Agnew
- New Mexico Environment Department, 121 Tijeras Avenue NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102, United States
| | - Joseph H. Hoover
- Community Environmental Health Program, MSC09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Kateryna Artyushkova
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, MSC01 1120, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Drew E. Latta
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Iowa, 4105 Seamans Center, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Eric J. Peterson
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, MSC01 1120, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Johnnye Lewis
- Community Environmental Health Program, MSC09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Laura J. Crossey
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, MSC03 2040, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Adrian J. Brearley
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, MSC03 2040, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - José M. Cerrato
- Department of Civil Engineering, MSC01 1070, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
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Ono FB, Penido ES, Tappero R, Sparks D, Guilherme LRG. Bioaccessibility of Cd and Pb in tailings from a zinc smelting in Brazil: implications for human health. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2016; 38:1083-1096. [PMID: 26493831 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-015-9774-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Soils and wastes enriched with heavy metals may present ecological and human health risks. A considerable number of mining areas exist in Brazil, where high levels of metals have been found. However, studies of bioaccessibility of metals in soils/tailings from these areas are scarce, despite their potential informational contribution concerning exposure risks of residents near these areas. This study evaluated tailings collected from four sites of a zinc smelting area located in Brazil with aims to: (1) evaluate the presence of metals of potential concern; (2) investigate Cd and Pb bioaccessibility; and (3) determine the desorption kinetics of Cd and Pb. High concentrations of total Cd and Pb (up to 1743 mg Cd kg(-1) and 8675 mg Pb kg(-1)) and great variability were found in the tailings, indicating the importance of adequate planning for their final disposal, in order to avoid contamination in the surrounding environment. Cadmium and Pb bioaccessibility percentages in the intestinal phase were less than 47 and 4 %, respectively, which represents significant fractions not available for absorption in the intestinal tract. However, this material has to be monitored since its bioaccessibility may increase with eventual physicochemical changes, releasing Cd and Pb. Desorption kinetics experiments revealed that Pb in the samples remained in less labile fractions, whereas Cd was found in more labile fractions, which is in accordance with the bioaccessibility results.
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Affiliation(s)
- F B Ono
- Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Lavras, CP 3037, Campus UFLA, Lavras, MG, 37200-000, Brazil
| | - E S Penido
- Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Lavras, CP 3037, Campus UFLA, Lavras, MG, 37200-000, Brazil
| | - R Tappero
- Photon Sciences, Beamline X27A, National Synchrotron Light Source, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY, 11973, USA
| | - D Sparks
- Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Lab, Suite 250a, Delaware Environmental Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - L R G Guilherme
- Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Lavras, CP 3037, Campus UFLA, Lavras, MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
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