Copper, Nickel, Lead, and Cadmium Concentration in Soils around Industrial Areas from Latacunga, Ecuador

Abstract

Environmental pollution has increased in recent decades as a result of various human activities and the presence of various chemical compounds, including heavy metals. The goal of this paper is to determine the concentration and distribution of copper, nickel, lead, and cadmium in soils around industrial areas from Latacunga, Ecuador. Soil samples were obtained from 19 localities: two zones with influence from the industrial sector and two recreation areas and public access. Samples obtained were pretreated and then analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry following USEPA 3050B and USEPA 3052 methodology. Finally, a statistical analysis belonging to a randomized complete block design, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied (confidence level of 95%). The results show that the concentration of the metals analyzed decreased in the order of nickel> copper> lead. Additionally, is it shown that the concentration of nickel exceeds the limits suggested by local regulators in all study zones. On the other hand, Zone 1 and Zone 2 show copper and nickel concentrations that exceed the referenced limits.