Abstract
Volcanic ash contains thallium (Tl), which is highly toxic to the biosphere. The aim of this study was to determine the Tl concentration in fractions of volcanic ash samples originating from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. A sequential extraction scheme allowed for a study of element migration in the environment. Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry using a flow measuring system was selected as the analytical method to determine Tl content. The highest average content of Tl in volcanic ash was determined in the fraction entrapped in the aluminosilicate matrix (0.329 µg g−1), followed by the oxidizable fraction (0.173 µg g−1). The lowest content of Tl was found in the water soluble fraction (0.001 µg g−1); however, this fraction is important due to the fact that Tl redistribution among all the fractions occurs through the aqueous phase.
Highlights
Volcanic ash contains thallium (Tl), which is highly toxic to the biosphere
The aim of this study was to determine the Tl concentration in fractions of volcanic ash samples originating from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano
Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry using a flow measuring system was selected as the analytical method to determine Tl content
Summary
Volcanic ash contains thallium (Tl), which is highly toxic to the biosphere. After a brief pause the eruption began again on April 14, 2010, with much more intensity, spreading volcanic ash into the atmosphere up to a height of 9 km. Thallium poisoning can cause changes in blood chemistry, liver, kidney, intestine and testis tissue. It results in abdominal pain, diarrhea and tingling of the extremities. Due to the notable element of risk, the content of thallium is systematically measured in environmental samples (e.g. river water or groundwater) in order to prevent its uncontrolled spread (Lukaszewski et al 2010; Wojtkowiak et al 2016)
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