Abstract
The geochemical features of mercury content and distribution in the zone of coal producers have been studied (Mezhdurechensk town). Mercury content in soil (30 samples) was determined by atomic absorption method using mercury analyzer PA-915+ with pyrolytic device. Mercury content in soil samples changed from 0.12 to 0.17 mg/kg, the average value being 0.057 mg/kg. Within the town territory five zones with mercury elevated concentrations in soil were distinguished. 25-year observation period showed a 2.8 time decrease in average mercury content in soil. The major contribution to soil pollution in the urban territory was made by the two factors: local and regional. The mercury content in soil is affected by the emissions from boilers operating on coal as well as coal dust from the open pits near the town.
Highlights
Mercury and its compounds are one of the most hazardous ecotoxicants or even “superecotoxicants” [1]
The data analysis has shown that according to the aerial survey of Mezhdurechensk town site the mercury content in soil samples changes from 0.12 to 0.17 mg/kg, with the average value 0. 057 mg/kg
Under these circumstances five zones with elevated mercury content were distinguished, three of which are located in the Eastern region, but two – in the Western one
Summary
Mercury and its compounds are one of the most hazardous ecotoxicants or even “superecotoxicants” [1]. Coal producers in Kemerovo Oblast are largest enterprises in coal mining of Russia. These enterprises of different capacity surround Mezhdurechensk, which is located 60 kilometers east from Novokuznetsk city and 302 kilometers south-east from the administrative center, Kemerovo city. The purpose of the given paper is to determine mercury content in soil of Mezhdurechensk town, to reveal technogenic pollution at its initial stage, when it does not pose a serious threat yet, but is of great importance for monitoring and forecasting. The paper presents the data on spatial distribution of mercury in the territory of Mezhdurechensk as one of the towns located in the vicinity and zone of largest coal producers
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