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Dai X, Liang J, Shi H, Yan T, He Z, Li L, Hu H. Health risk assessment of heavy metals based on source analysis and Monte Carlo in the downstream basin of the Zishui. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 245:117975. [PMID: 38145736 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117975] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
In this study, stone coal mines in the lower reaches of the Zijiang River were adopted as the research object. To analyze the spatial distribution, sources, and health risks of heavy metals in the surrounding soil of stone coal mines, 82 topsoil samples were collected in the study area, and the contents of 8 heavy metals including Cd, Hg, As, Cr, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Zn were determined. The spatial distribution of heavy metals was analyzed using ArcGIS, and the pollution sources of heavy metals were identified using Positive matrix factorization (PMF). Then, Monte Carlo and health risk assessment models were used to evaluate the health risks of different populations. The results showed that the average content of heavy metals followed the order of Zn > Cr > Pb > Cu > Ni > As > Cd > Hg, and the contents of all heavy metals were higher than the soil background values of Hunan Province. The high-value areas of heavy metals content were mostly concentrated in the central region close to areas with a notable concentration of stone coal mines. PMF identified four pollution sources, namely, mining activities (26.9%), atmospheric deposition (18.8%), natural sources (32.8%) and agricultural sources (21.5%). The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for children were higher than those for adults, with As and Cd posing higher carcinogenic risks to children. Based on the source of health risks, it was determined that the health risks could be primarily attributed to agricultural sources, and As was the main heavy metal causing health risks. This study provides theoretical support for treating heavy metal pollution in mining basins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Dai
- Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China; Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China.
| | - Jiahui Liang
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Huading Shi
- Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China; Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China.
| | - Tiezhu Yan
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Zexin He
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Li Li
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China
| | - Hualing Hu
- Technical Centre for Soil, Agriculture and Rural Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, 100012, PR China
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Wang N, Liu Z, Sun Y, Lu N, Luo Y. Analysis of soil fertility and toxic metal characteristics in open-pit mining areas in northern Shaanxi. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2273. [PMID: 38280937 PMCID: PMC10821941 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52886-8] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The study specifically focused on the Hongliulin mining area, where a total of 40 soil samples were meticulously collected and analyzed from within a 1000 m radius extending from the tailings dam. The findings revealed that soil pH within the 0-1000 m range generally leaned towards the alkaline side. In terms of soil nutrient content, encompassing factors such as soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), alkali nitrogen (AK), available phosphorus (AP), and quick-acting potassium (AK), the variations fell within the following ranges: 2.23-13.58 g/kg, 0.12-0.73 g/kg, 0.18-1.15 g/kg, 9.54-35.82 g/kg, 2.89-6.76 mg/kg, 3.45-11.25 mg/kg, and 5.86-130.9 mg/kg. Collectively, these values indicate relatively low levels of soil nutrients. Within the 0-500 m range of soil samples, the average concentrations of Cd, Hg, Pb, and As were 0.778, 0.198, 24.87, and 17.92 mg/kg, respectively. These concentrations exceeded the established soil background values of Shaanxi Province and emerged as the primary pollutants in the study area. Within this same range, the mean values of eight toxic metals (Pi) were ranked in the following descending order: 1.726 (Hg), 1.400 (As), 1.129 (Cr), 1.109 (Pb), 0.623 (Zn), 0.536 (Cd), 0.309 (Cu), and 0.289 (Ni). With the exception of Hg, As, Cr, and Pb, which exhibited slight pollution, the other toxic metals were found to be within acceptable pollution limits for this sampling range, in line with the results obtained using the geo-accumulation index method. The average potential ecological risk index for the eight toxic metals in the study area stood at 185.0, indicating a moderate overall pollution level. When assessing individual elements, the proportions of ecological risk attributed to Hg, As, Pb, and Cd were 34.57%, 27.44%, 25.11%, and 23.11%, respectively. This suggests that the primary potential ecological risk elements in the study area are Hg and As, followed by Cd and Pb. Notably, toxic metals Hg and Pb, as well as As and Pb, exhibited significant positive correlations within the sampling area, suggesting a common source. An analysis of the relationship between soil physicochemical properties and toxic metals indicated that soil pH, SOM, TN, and TP were closely linked to toxic metal concentrations. The toxic metal elements in the research area's soil exhibit moderate variability (0.16 < CV < 0.36) to high variability (CV > 0.36). Within the range of 0-200 m, the CV values for Cd and Hg exceed 1, indicating a high level of variability. The coefficient of variation for SOM, TP, AP, AK and TK is relatively high with the of 2.93, 2.36, 2.36, 21.01, 7.54. The soil in the sampling area has undergone significant disturbances due to human activities, resulting in toxic metal pollution and nutrient deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- Institute of Land Engineering and Technology, Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710021, China.
- Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710075, China.
- Key Laboratory of Degraded and Unused Land Consolidation Engineering, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China.
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Land Consolidation, Xi'an, 710021, China.
- Land Engineering Technology Innovation Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Zhe Liu
- Institute of Land Engineering and Technology, Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710075, China
- Key Laboratory of Degraded and Unused Land Consolidation Engineering, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Land Consolidation, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Land Engineering Technology Innovation Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Yingying Sun
- Institute of Land Engineering and Technology, Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710075, China
- Key Laboratory of Degraded and Unused Land Consolidation Engineering, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Land Consolidation, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Land Engineering Technology Innovation Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Nan Lu
- Institute of Land Engineering and Technology, Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710075, China
- Key Laboratory of Degraded and Unused Land Consolidation Engineering, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Land Consolidation, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Land Engineering Technology Innovation Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Yuhu Luo
- Institute of Land Engineering and Technology, Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Provincial Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710075, China
- Key Laboratory of Degraded and Unused Land Consolidation Engineering, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Shaanxi Engineering Research Center of Land Consolidation, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Land Engineering Technology Innovation Center, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xi'an, 710021, China
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Shi T, Zhan P, Shen Y, Wang H, Wu C, Li J. Using multi-technology to characterize transboundary Hg pollution in the largest presently active Hg deposit in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-28080-0. [PMID: 37322398 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28080-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Active Hg mines are primary sources of Hg contamination in the environment of mining districts and surrounding areas. Alleviation of Hg pollution requires knowledge of pollution sources, migration, and transform pathways across various environmental media. Accordingly, the Xunyang Hg-Sb mine, the largest active Hg deposit in China, presently was selected as the study area. GIS, TIMA, EPMA, μ-XRF, TEM-EDS, and Hg stable isotopes were adopted to investigate the spatial distribution, mineralogical characteristics, in situ microanalysis, and pollution sources of Hg in the environment medium at the macro- and micro-levels. The total Hg concentration in samples showed a regional distribution, with higher levels in areas close to the mining operations. The in situ distribution of Hg in soil was mainly associated with the mineralogical phases of quartz, and Hg was also correlated with Sb and S. Hg was also found to be rich mainly in quartz minerals in the sediment and showed different distributions of Sb. Hg hotspots had S abundances and contained no Sb and O. The contributions from the anthropogenic sources to soil Hg were estimated to be 55.35%, among which 45.97% from unroasted Hg ore and 9.38% from tailing. Natural input of soil Hg due to pedogenic processes accounted for 44.65%. Hg in corn grain was mainly derived from the atmosphere. This study will provide a scientific basis for assessing the current environmental quality in this area and minimizing further impacts that affect the nearby environmental medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoran Shi
- School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China.
| | - Pei Zhan
- School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China
| | - Yaqin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Beijing Dabeinong Technology Group Co., Ltd., Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Chunfa Wu
- School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China
| | - Jining Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
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Heghedűș-Mîndru G, Negrea P, Trașcă TI, Ștef DS, Cocan I, Heghedűș-Mîndru RC. Food Intake of Macro and Trace Elements from Different Fresh Vegetables Taken from Timisoara Market, Romania-Chemometric Analysis of the Results. Foods 2023; 12:foods12040749. [PMID: 36832823 PMCID: PMC9955908 DOI: 10.3390/foods12040749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vegetable consumption is recommended and encouraged by all nutritionists and doctors across the planet. However, in addition to minerals which are beneficial to the body, certain minerals with a negative influence on human health can sneak in. It is very important that in the case of some minerals their content in vegetables is known, so that the recommended limits are not exceeded. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the macro elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg) and trace elements (Cu, Mn, Fe, Cd, Pb, Zn, Co) in 24 samples of vegetables from four botanical families (Solanaceae, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae and Amaryllidaceae), purchased from the market in Timișoara, Romania, both imported products as well as local products. The atomic-absorption-spectrometry technique (FAAS) was used to evaluate the macro elements and trace elements. The values obtained for the macro elements and trace elements were used as input data for the analysis of multivariate data, the principal component analysis (PCA) in which the vegetable samples were grouped according to their contribution of certain mineral elements, as well as according to some of the botanical families to which they belong. At the same time, based on the values obtained for trace elements, an assessment of the risk to human health in terms of consumption of the vegetables studied was carried out. The risk assessment for human health was determined on the basis of the estimated daily dose (EDI), the values of the target hazard coefficient (THQ), the values of the total target hazard coefficient (TTHQ) and the carcinogenic risk (CR). Following the determination of THQ, the values obtained followed the order THQWith > THQCd > THQPb > THQCo > THQMn > THQZn > THQFe. The results on the content of macro elements and trace elements, as well as the assessment of the risk to human health when consuming the assessed vegetables, were within the limits of European Union (EU) and World Health Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization (WHO/FAO)legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Heghedűș-Mîndru
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Science “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Petru Negrea
- Faculty of Industrial Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Polytechnic University of Timisoara, Piata Victoriei, RO, 300006 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Teodor Ioan Trașcă
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Science “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ducu Sandu Ștef
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Science “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ileana Cocan
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Science “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ramona Cristina Heghedűș-Mîndru
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Science “King Mihai I” from Timisoara, 300645 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence:
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Li D, Zhang C, Li X, Li F, Liao S, Zhao Y, Wang Z, Sun D, Zhang Q. Co-exposure of potentially toxic elements in wheat grains reveals a probabilistic health risk in Southwestern Guizhou, China. Front Nutr 2022; 9:934919. [PMID: 36003839 PMCID: PMC9393542 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.934919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bijie is located at a typical karst landform of Southwestern Guizhou, which presented high geological background values of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Recently, whether PTE of wheat in Bijie is harmful to human health has aroused people's concern. To this end, the objectives of this study are to determine the concentrations of PTE [chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and fluorine (F)] in wheat grains, identify contaminant sources, and evaluate the probabilistic risks to human beings. A total of 149 wheat grain samples collected from Bijie in Guizhou were determined using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) and fluoride-ion electrode methods. The mean concentrations of Cr, Ni, As, Cd, Pb, and F were 3.250, 0.684, 0.055, 0.149, 0.039, and 4.539 mg/kg, respectively. All investigated PTEs met the standard limits established by the Food and Agriculture Organization except for Cr. For the source identification, Cr and Pb should be originated from industry activities, while Ni, As, and Cd might come from mixed sources, and F was possibly put down to the high geological background value. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks were evaluated by the probabilistic approach (Monte Carlo simulation). The mean hazard quotient (HQ) values in the three populations were lower than the safety limit (1.0) with the exception of As (children: 1.03E+00). However, the mean hazard index (HI) values were all higher than 1.0 and followed the order: children (2.57E+00) > adult females (1.29E+00) > adult males (1.12E+00). In addition, the mean carcinogenic risk (CR) values for Cr, As, Pb, and Cd in three populations were all higher than 1E-06, which cannot be negligible. The mean threshold CR (TCR) values were decreased in the order of children (1.32E-02) > adult females (6.61E-03) > adult males (5.81E-03), respectively, all at unacceptable risk levels. Moreover, sensitivity analysis identified concentration factor (C W ) as the most crucial parameter that affects human health. These findings highlight that co-exposure of PTE in wheat grains revealed a probabilistic human health risk. Corresponding measures should be undertaken for controlling pollution sources and reducing the risks for the local populace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dashuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiangxiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Fuming Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shengmei Liao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yifang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zelan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Dali Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Qinghai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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Custodio M, Espinoza C, Orellana E, Chanamé F, Fow A, Peñaloza R. Assessment of toxic metal contamination, distribution and risk in the sediments from lagoons used for fish farming in the central region of Peru. Toxicol Rep 2022; 9:1603-1613. [PMID: 36561945 PMCID: PMC9764251 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxic metal contamination, distribution and risk were evaluated in the sediments of three lagoons used for fish farming in the central region of Peru. The distribution of toxic metals in the sediment was in the following descending order of Zn > V > Ni > Cu > Pb > As > Cr > Co > Cd > Sb. Contamination factor (Cf) and geoaccumulation index (Igeo) values for Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Sb, V and Zn indicated low contamination and for Cd moderate contamination. The pollution load index (PLI) ranged from 0.3856 to 0.5622; indicating no appreciable contamination and the modified degree of contamination (mCd) corroborated this result. The potential ecological risk (Ri) in the Tranca Grande and Pomacocha lagoons revealed a low potential ecological risk and in Tipicocha a moderate potential ecological risk. HI values < 1 indicated that non-carcinogenic adverse effects were negligible. In adults, the Total carcinogenic risk (TCR) values for As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb were less than 1.00E-04, indicating no significant carcinogenic risk. In children, TCR values showed similar behavior with the exception of As. Therefore, considering that fish production for domestic consumption and export is carried out in these lagoons, it is important to continue monitoring toxic metals to protect the health of these ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Custodio
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909-4089, Huancayo, Peru,Correspondence to: Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909, Huancayo, Peru.
| | - Ciro Espinoza
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909-4089, Huancayo, Peru
| | - Edith Orellana
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909-4089, Huancayo, Peru
| | - Fernán Chanamé
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909-4089, Huancayo, Peru
| | - Anthony Fow
- Universidad Nacional del Callao, Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental y de Recursos Naturales, Av. Juan Pablo II 306, Callao, Peru
| | - Richard Peñaloza
- Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Av. Mariscal Castilla No 3909-4089, Huancayo, Peru
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Jolly YN, Rakib MRJ, Sakib MS, Shahadat MA, Rahman A, Akter S, Kabir J, Rahman MS, Begum BA, Rahman R, Sulieman A, Tamam N, Khandaker MU, Idris AM. Impact of Industrially Affected Soil on Humans: A Soil-Human and Soil-Plant-Human Exposure Assessment. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10070347. [PMID: 35878252 PMCID: PMC9318062 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10070347] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metal (HM) contaminated soil can affect human health via ingestion of foodstuffs, inhalation of soil dust, and skin contact of soil. This study estimates the level of some heavy metals in soils of industrial areas, and their exposures to human body via dietary intake of vegetables and other pathways. Mean concentrations of Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, As and Pb in the studied soil were found to be 61.27, 27,274, 42.36, 9.77, 28.08 and 13.69 mg/kg, respectively, while in vegetables the respective values were 0.53, 119.59, 9.76, 7.14, 1.34 and 2.69 mg/kg. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that Fe, Cu, Zn, and Pb originated from lithogenic sources, while Cr and As are derived from anthropogenic sources. A moderate enrichment was noted by Cr, As, and Pb in the entire sampling site, indicating a progressive depletion of soil quality. The bioaccumulation factor (BCF) value for all the vegetables was recorded as BCF < 1; however, the metal pollution index (MPI) stipulates moderately high value of heavy metal accumulation in the vegetable samples. Hazard Index (HI) of >0.1 was estimated for adults but >1 for children by direct soil exposure, whereas HI < 1 for both children and adults via dietary intake of vegetables. Estimated Total carcinogenic risk (TCR) value due to soil exposure showed safe for adults but unsafe for children, while both the population groups were found to be safe via food consumption. Children are found more vulnerable receptors than adults, and health risks (carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic) via direct soil exposure proved unsafe. Overall, this study can be used as a reference for similar types of studies to evaluate heavy metal contaminated soil impact on the population of Bangladesh and other countries as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeasmin N. Jolly
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Atomic Energy Centre, P.O. Box 164, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.A.); (J.K.); (M.S.R.); (B.A.B.)
- Correspondence: (Y.N.J.); (M.R.J.R.)
| | - Md. Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh
- Correspondence: (Y.N.J.); (M.R.J.R.)
| | - M. Sadman Sakib
- Department of Physics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.S.S.); (M.A.S.); (R.R.)
| | - M. Ashemus Shahadat
- Department of Physics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.S.S.); (M.A.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Arafat Rahman
- Department of Soil, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh;
| | - Shirin Akter
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Atomic Energy Centre, P.O. Box 164, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.A.); (J.K.); (M.S.R.); (B.A.B.)
| | - Jamiul Kabir
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Atomic Energy Centre, P.O. Box 164, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.A.); (J.K.); (M.S.R.); (B.A.B.)
| | - M. Safiur Rahman
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Atomic Energy Centre, P.O. Box 164, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.A.); (J.K.); (M.S.R.); (B.A.B.)
| | - Bilkis A. Begum
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Atomic Energy Centre, P.O. Box 164, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (S.A.); (J.K.); (M.S.R.); (B.A.B.)
| | - Rubina Rahman
- Department of Physics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.S.S.); (M.A.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Abdelmoneim Sulieman
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 422, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Nissren Tamam
- Department of Physics, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mayeen Uddin Khandaker
- Centre for Applied Physics and Radiation Technologies, School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor, Malaysia;
- Department of General Educational Development, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, Daffodil International University, DIU Rd, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh
| | - Abubakr M. Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
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Transfer of Potentially Toxic Elements in the Soil-Plant System in Magnesite Mining and Processing Areas. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10040720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mining activities, ore concentrations, and transport processes generate large amounts of pollutants, including hazardous elements, which are released into the environment. This work presents the results of experimental research aimed at evaluating the environmental risks of soil and plant contamination in two magnesite mining and processing areas in the Slovak Republic, and assesses the phytoremediation potential of dominant plant species. Eleven potentially toxic elements in the soil were investigated using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (Cd, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cu, As, Ni, Mn, Mg, Fe) and atomic absorption spectrometry (Hg). In plants, potentially toxic elements were investigated using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (Cu, As, Cd, Pb) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (Cr, Zn, Mn, Mg). Selected soil parameters (pH, redox potential, and soil organic matter) were also investigated. Soil contamination was evaluated using environmental indices (geoaccumulation index—Igeo, enrichment factor—EF, contamination factor—Cf, degree of contamination—Cd). The phytoremediation potential of plants was evaluated using the bioconcentration factor (BCF) and the translocation factor (TF). The soil reaction in the studied areas indicated a strong alkalization of the soil. The soils in Jelšava-Lubeník were significantly contaminated with Cr, As, Mn, and Mg. The most significant enrichment based on the average values of EF was found to be in the order of Cd > Mg > Zn > Cu > As > Cr > Ni > Pb > Fe > Hg > Mn. The observed values of Cf and Cd indicated a high degree of soil contamination. In Košice, the soils were found to be significantly contaminated with Cr, Mn, Mg, and Ni. The most significant enrichment was found in the order of Cd > Mn > Ni > Pb > Zn > Mg > Cu > As > Fe > Cr > Hg. Very high Cf was found for Pb and Cr. The results of correlation and hierarchical cluster analyses suggest a similar origin of pollutants caused by significant anthropogenic interventions due to magnesite mining and processing. The investigated dominant plant species, Phragmites australis, Agrostis stolonifera, Elytrigia repens, and Taraxacum officinale are able to accumulate high concentrations of the monitored potentially toxic elements without more serious load or damage. The results of BCF and TF confirmed that P. australis and T. officinale appeared to be suitable accumulators in the phytoextraction process. In the case of E. repens and A. stolonifera it was confirmed that they accumulate and immobilize high concentrations of potentially toxic elements, especially in the roots, establishing the suitability of their use in phytostabilization processes.
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Parvez M. Heavy metals levels and associated health risk assessment of Euphorbia granulata Forssk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:1998-2008. [PMID: 34363158 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15569-9] [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: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are considered as the safest approach to treat various ailments. However, prolonged consumption of plants containing high levels of heavy metals (HMs) can lead to deleterious consequences. Euphorbia granulata (EG) is therapeutically used in Pakistan and many parts of the world. This study assessed EG from three districts of Khyber Pakhun Khwa, Pakistan, for the levels of seven HMs (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Ag, Hg, and As) and the associated health risks. Non-carcinogenic health risk associated with HMs was assessed from hazard quotients (THQ) and hazard index (HI). THQ values of Hg for Peshawar (1.566) and Mardan (1.897) were above the safe recommended limits (< 1) of USEPA. Overall more than 80% of THQ was contributed by the Hg alone. Total cancer risk (TCR) was calculated using incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR). The hazard index (HI) displayed by Peshawar (1.87) and Mardan (2.7) samples indicated the potential adverse health effects due to EG. Furthermore, the TCR for Peshawar (2.2 × 10-4), Mardam (2.3 × 10-4), and Swat (1.4 × 10-4) was also more than US-EPA recommended threshold value (1 × 10-4). Our results unveiled the possibility of carcinogenic health risks with Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and As to EG consumers. Due to potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk, chronic use of E. granulata is not recommended, particularly from HMs contaminated sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Parvez
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology (SUIT), Peshawar, Pakistan.
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10
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Abstract
Landfills, old and abandoned mines, industrial sites, heaps, sludge ponds and other sources of pollution represent environmental threats and are characterized as chemical time bombs. This work is focused on the evaluation of soil contamination by risk elements using various indices (geoaccumulation index—Igeo, enrichment factor—EF, contamination factor—Cif and degree of contamination—Cd). These selected agrarian problem areas are located in Slovakia, especially in the air pollution field of landfills consisting of power plant fly ash, tannery and footwear wastes, leachate (lúženec), iron ore slag, waste from metallurgy and sludge ponds in which coal sludge waste is deposited and waste from ore treatment. Nine research sites in the agrarian region of Slovak Republic were monitored. Ten risk elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Ni, Cr, Pb, Cd and Hg) and pH/H2O were included in this study and were determined in surface soils (of 0.05 m to 0.15 m) using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Our study showed the highest exceedance of the limit values of risk elements in the order Ni (51.85 times) > Co (25.47 times) > Cd (13.70 times) > Cu (12.78 times) > Cr (8.37 times) > Fe (8.26 times) > Hg (7.94 times) > Zn (5.71 times) > Pb (4.63 times). The content of risk elements increased based on the average values of Igeo in the order of Cr < Hg < Zn < Pb < Ni < Cu < Cd. Igeo values for cadmium indicated mild-to-extreme contamination at all sites. We found the most significant enrichment in the order of Cd > Cu > Pb > Ni > Zn > Hg > Cr. EF values for cadmium indicated extremely high enrichment; the Cif and Cd values indicated a very high degree of soil contamination near the nickel smelter landfill, an industrial metallurgical plant and old but active mines. The studied areas pose a serious danger not only to the soil but also to groundwater and biota due to the prevailing low soil reaction, which increases the mobility of toxic elements. The study provides important results for the development of effective strategies for the control and remediation of endangered areas.
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Assessing Heavy Metal Contamination Risk in Soil and Water in the Core Water Source Area of the Middle Route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project, China. LAND 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/land10090934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Middle Route Project of China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP) is a national-level water source protection zone and the ecological safety of its water quality and surrounding soil is of great significance. In this study, heavy metals in the surface water and topsoil in the core water source area were quantitatively analyzed using a geographic information system (GIS) and geostatistical techniques combined with environmental pollution and ecological risk assessment models to determine their environmental contamination levels, ecological risk levels, and spatial distribution patterns. Cd was identified as an essential factor responsible for the overall slight heavy metal pollution in the topsoil layer. Heavy metal contamination in surface water was primarily driven by alert-level concentrations of Hg and was consistently distributed in areas with high concentrations of Hg in the topsoil. Applying the potential ecological risk index (RI) revealed two key results. First, surface water showed no ecological risk. The concentrations of heavy metals in surface water met the goals set by relevant authorities in China. Second, overall, the topsoil was at low ecological risk, with a spatial pattern primarily influenced by Cd and Hg. Some heavy metals might have similar pollution sources and originate from human activities such as industrial activities, mining and smelting, and pesticide and chemical fertilizer applications. The study is important for improving the soil and water ecology in the reservoir area and ensuring the northward diversion of high-quality water. In addition, it provides a sound basis for making decisions about local heavy-metal remediation and treatment projects.
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Mathematical Model to Simulate the Transfer of Heavy Metals from Soil to Plant. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13116157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements, but their various applications have led to their wide circulation in the environment, raising concerns over their latent effects on the environment and human health. Their toxicity depends on numerous factors, including chemical species, concentration of heavy metal ions, environmental factors, etc. Experimental studies on the single or cumulative effects of heavy metals on plants are complex, time consuming and difficult to conduct. An alternative is mathematical modeling, which can include different factors into an integrated system and can predict plant and environmental behavior under multiple stressors. This paper presents a mathematical model that simulates the dependence of temperature, concentration of Zn in the soil and the subsequent bioaccumulation in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.); respectively, the reaction of lettuce to Zn contamination. The main results consist of three mathematical models, based on systems of ordinary differential equations and checking their predictions with available experimental data. The models are applied to predict an optimal harvest time of lettuce with low concentration of Zn, in identifying the availability of the analyzed species to phytoremediation operations and the possibility of maneuvering certain control factors to reduce or increase the intensity of the bioaccumulation process.
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Zgłobicki W, Telecka M, Skupiński S. Heavy metals in playgrounds in Lublin (E Poland): sources, pollution levels and health risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:18328-18341. [PMID: 32537690 PMCID: PMC8021521 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09375-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In the paper, the pollution of playgrounds in Lublin with heavy metals was assessed. Since playgrounds are a place of activity of children-the most vulnerable group of city residents, identifying the degree of pollution and the related health hazards is particularly important. 50 playgrounds were investigated, and samples were collected from three types of places: soil in the playgrounds, soil beneath the swings and soil in the sandpits (a total of 91 samples); heavy metal levels were determined in the < 0.05-mm fraction. The mean heavy metal levels were Cd-4.7 mg kg-1, Cr-192.4 mg kg-1, Cu-16.3 mg kg-1, Hg-0.027 mg kg-1, Ni-12.7 mg kg-1, Pb-41 mg kg-1, and Zn-79.8 mg kg-1, and they were in the following order when normalised to the geochemical background: Cd > Cr > Zn > Pb > Hg > Ni > Cu. The highest mean levels occurred in the case of soil collected from beneath the swings (Cd, Cr, Ni and Zn) or soil in the playgrounds (Cu, Hg and Pb). Geochemical indices such as Igeo and EF indicate the lack of pollution or low level of pollution with Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn and Pb. Moderate or considerable pollution with Cd and, sporadically, with Hg occurred in some playgrounds. A significant ecological risk was found for all samples due to the presence of Cd and, for about 20% of the samples, the concentration of Hg. In all the cases analysed, the values of health hazard indices (HI, CR) for children are very low and well below the hazard threshold for each element.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Zgłobicki
- Institute of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Kraśnicka 2D, 20-718, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Telecka
- Institute of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Kraśnicka 2D, 20-718, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Skupiński
- Institute of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Kraśnicka 2D, 20-718, Lublin, Poland
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Ren Y, Lin M, Liu Q, Zhang Z, Fei X, Xiao R, Lv X. Contamination assessment, health risk evaluation, and source identification of heavy metals in the soil-rice system of typical agricultural regions on the southeast coast of China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:12870-12880. [PMID: 33095894 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11229-6] [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: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
To quantitatively assess heavy metal accumulation and potential ecological and human health risks as well as analyze the sources of metals in a typical soil-rice system located on the southeast coast of China, 120 topsoil samples and corresponding rice grain samples were collected across the study area. The concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Ni were analyzed. The results revealed that Hg, Cd, and Cu were the main pollutants in soils. Besides, according to geo-accumulation value of Hg, 18.3% of samples were at or above moderate contamination levels. Additionally, the soil was in moderate ecological risk from combined heavy metal pollution, and 49.7% and 27.0% of this risk could be attributed to Hg and Cd pollution, respectively, due to their high toxic-response factors. For the rice samples, Cd content showed the highest biological accumulation coefficient value (40.8%) in rice grains and was slightly greater than its maximum allowable value (MAV) (0.2 mg/kg) in 7.5% of samples, whereas the other metals were all lower than their corresponding MAVs. Heavy metal exposure (especially As exposure) via rice consumption causes significant carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks to adults, and non-carcinogenic risk to children, while the carcinogenic risk to children was at tolerable level. Greater rice consumption might be responsible for the greater health risk to adults than children. Natural sources (loaded heavily with Cr and Ni) such as lithogenic components and soil parent materials, agricultural activities (loaded heavily with Cd, Cu, and Zn), especially excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and industrial activities (loaded heavily with Hg, Pb, and As) including vehicle emissions, coal combustion, and those of the textile and chemical industries were identified as the main sources. Effective regulations should be enforced to guarantee the safety of farm produce and protect ecological and human health in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Ren
- Hangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meng Lin
- School of Remote Sensing and Information Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Qingdao Urban Planning and Design Research Institute, Qiangdao, China
| | - Qingming Liu
- Hangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhonghao Zhang
- Institute of Urban Studies, School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xufeng Fei
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No.198 Shiqiao Road, Zhejiang, 310021, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Information Traceability of Agriculture Products, Minstry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Rui Xiao
- School of Remote Sensing and Information Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaonan Lv
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No.198 Shiqiao Road, Zhejiang, 310021, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Information Traceability of Agriculture Products, Minstry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hangzhou, China
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Pollution, Sources and Human Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Different Land Use Types under the Background of Industrial Cities. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12052121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Residents in industrial cities may be exposed to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in soil that increase chronic disease risks. In this study, six types of PTEs (Zn, As, Cr, Ni, Cu, and Pb) in 112 surface soil samples from three land use types—industrial land, residential land, and farmland—in Tonghua City, Jilin Province were measured. The geological accumulation index and pollution load index were calculated to assess the pollution level of metal. Meanwhile, the potential ecological risk index, hazard index, and carcinogenic risk were calculated to assess the environmental risks. The spatial distribution map was determined by the ordinary kriging method, and the sources of PTEs were identified by factor analysis and cluster analysis. The average concentrations of Zn, As, Cr, Ni, Cu, and Pb were 266.57, 15.72, 72.41, 15.04, 20.52, and 16.30 mg/kg, respectively. The results of the geological accumulation index demonstrated the following: Zn pollution was present in all three land use types, As pollution in industrial land cannot be neglected, Cr pollution in farmland was higher than that in the other two land use types. The pollution load index decreased in the order of industrial land > farmland > residential land. Multivariate statistical analysis divided the six PTEs into three groups by source: Zn and As both originated from industrial activities; vehicle emissions were the main source of Pb; and Ni and Cu were derived from natural parent materials. Meanwhile, Cr was found to come from a mixture of artificial and natural sources. The soil environment in the study area faced ecological risk from moderate pollution levels mainly contributed by As. PTEs did not pose a non-carcinogenic risk to humans; however, residents of the three land use types all faced estimated carcinogenic risks caused by Cr, and As in industrial land also posed high estimated carcinogenic risk to human health. The conclusion of this article provides corresponding data support to the government’s policy formulation of remediating different types of land and preventing exposure and related environmental risks.
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Čakmak D, Perović V, Kresović M, Pavlović D, Pavlović M, Mitrović M, Pavlović P. Sources and a Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Dust at Children's Playgrounds with Artificial Surfaces: A Case Study in Belgrade. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2020; 78:190-205. [PMID: 31901970 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-019-00702-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The focus of this research on children's playgrounds with artificial surfaces aimed to establish levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in dust, their origin, and impact on children at 15 playgrounds: 9 on school grounds and 6 on day nurseries in Belgrade (Serbia). Soil samples were taken from the immediate vicinity of the playgrounds to establish the origin of PTEs in the dust samples. Soil analyses revealed the lithogenic origin of Co, Cr, Ni, Fe, Mn, As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn and the anthropogenic origin of As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn. However, in the dust samples, the origin of the elements was different with As, Co, Fe, and Mn originating from the surrounding soil; Cr and Ni levels affected by both atmospheric deposition and the surrounding soil; Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations impacted by atmospheric deposition; and Cu levels affected by factors of a local character. No noncancer risk was found for any of the individual elements investigated, nor for any of the playgrounds being studied, while a minimal cancer risk was found from As with values greater than 1E-6 at almost all the sites. Based on the results obtained for the spatial distribution of individual PTE levels, it was determined that the surrounding soil and atmospheric deposition have an almost equal impact on noncancer risk values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragan Čakmak
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.
| | - Veljko Perović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Mirjana Kresović
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, Belgrade, 11080, Serbia
| | - Dragana Pavlović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Marija Pavlović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Miroslava Mitrović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Pavle Pavlović
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research 'Siniša Stanković' - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
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Characteristics and Assessment of Toxic Metal Contamination in Surface Water and Sediments Near a Uranium Mining Area. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17020548. [PMID: 31952191 PMCID: PMC7014452 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Concentrations of potentially toxic metals including Cd, Cu, Pb, Cr, U, Th in surface water and sediment samples collected from a river were analyzed to assess the contaminations, distribution characteristics, and sources of these metals. The contents of the metals were lower than the standard levels set by World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water. However, U and Th contents were far beyond the background values of surface water. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, and U in sediments were higher than the background values and the Probable Effect Level (PEL) of sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) which may result in high potential harmful biological effects to aquatic ecosystems. Based on the contamination factor (CF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), and potential ecological risk index (RI), Cd, Cr, and U were considered to be the metals that mainly contribute to the contamination of sediments. The calculation results also indicated that the sites adjacent to the uranium ore field were highly polluted. Results of cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and correlation analysis revealed that Cr, Pb, U, and Th were highly correlated with each other. These metals mainly originated from both anthropogenic sources and natural processes, especially emissions from uranium mining and quarrying, whereas Cd mostly came from anthropogenic sources (agricultural activities) of the upper reaches of the river.
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