Abstract
A b s t r a c t: Samples from different moss species were collected from 121 sampling sites evenly distributed over the territory of Croatia, during the summer and autumn of 2010. Moss samples were totally digested by using microwave digestion system and analysed by using atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES). Descriptive statistics were made from analyses of zinc in all moss samples. The content of Zn varies between 11.6 mg kg–1 and 77.1 mg kg–1. The median value of Zn content is 24.8 mg kg–1 which is similar to the median value obtained in investigation in 2005 (29.0 mg kg–1). Map of distribution of zinc shows the sites of the country with higher levels of this element. High contents of Zn were found in moss samples collected from the vicinity of Sisak, region of Podravina and Rijeka as a result of anthropogenic pollution. By the comparison of median value found in moss samples from neighboring and Balkan countries as well as Norway, it can be noted that the median for Zn in Croatia has the lowest value.
Highlights
Environmental pollution is a worldwide problem and its potential to influence the health of human populations is great [1]
The aim of this study is to present the content of zinc in 121 moss samples collected from the territory of Croatia, for the moss survey in 2010
The content of zinc in moss samples from the territory of Croatia vary between 11.6 mg kg–1 and 77.1 mg kg–1
Summary
Environmental pollution is a worldwide problem and its potential to influence the health of human populations is great [1]. Polluted air is common throughout the world especially in developed countries from 1960s [4]. Heavy metals are widespread pollutants of great concern as they are nondegradable and persistent. These metals are used in various industries from which effluents are discharged into the environment. Common sources of heavy metal pollution include discharge from industries such as electroplating, plastics manufacturing, fertilizer producing plants and wastes left after mining and metallurgical processes [5]. The transfer of air borne particles to land or water surfaces by dry, wet and occult deposition [6] constitutes the first stage of accumulation of atmospheric heavy metals
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
