In situ monitoring (field screening) and assessment of lead and arsenic contaminants in the greater New Orleans area using a portable X-ray fluorescence analyser

Abstract

This paper reports environmental assessment and identification of environmental contaminants caused by exposure to toxic metals such as Pb and As after Hurricane Katrina using an onsite analysis method. Concentrations of lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) detected in many soil samples after Hurricane Katrina were reported to exceed EPA allowable value. Toxic metals mentioned above were measured by a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer (XRF) in the greater New Orleans area. The portable XRF analyzer provides rapid data collection in the field. Distribution of Pb in New Orleans is displayed in a regional map using geographic information system (GIS). The map provides an updated image of environmental exposure to Pb contamination in the greater New Orleans area after Hurricane Katrina and also shows Pb contaminated areas where Pb concentrations exceed the EPA allowable level. The portable XRF provides a rapid analysis method for toxic metals and can be used for the field screening of soils at any place and for identifying contamination areas rapidly.