Trace Elements Concentration in Surface Water Used for Irrigation in Kosovo

Smajl Rizani,Perparim Laze

doi:10.13189/eer.2017.050706

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the quality of the surface water used for irrigation purposes by examining the presence of trace elements in the main irrigation sources in Kosovo. Samples were taken from several of these sources (rivers, some reservoirs, pump stations and canals) and were then analyzed for trace elements content such as zinc, iron, copper, manganese, lead, nickel, cobalt, cadmium, chromium, and molybdenum, by Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (MP-AES 4100). The findings revealed no significant differences in terms of trace elements content in the samples coming from the various sources. Copper, manganese, nickel, cobalt, lead and chromium were found in normal concentrations in all the water sources, whereas zinc and iron were found to be in deficient concentrations. Cadmium was at recommended maximum concentrations. Molybdenum is found in high concentrations especially in the water samples taken from pump stations and irrigation reservoirs. In the future it is necessary to closely and continuously monitor the concentrations of molybdenum in the irrigation waters of this area. Furthermore, it is essential to identify the causes of the high molybdenum levels in these waters. However, these sources can be used for irrigation purposes without posing a threat to the soil and plants.

Highlights

Trace elements are natural constituents of the soils or the underlying geologic materials and may be mobilized by irrigation [20]
Results from the analyzed samples of water sources are shown in table 1. This table displays the mean values of pH and the mean values of trace elements content and recommended maximum concentration of trace elements in irrigation waters [11]; [8,9]
The comparison of the analyses results of all water samples with the recommended maximum concentrations indicate that copper, manganese, nickel, cobalt, lead and chromium are in normal concentrations; whereas the concentration of zinc (0.06 - 0.09 mg/l) and iron (0.01 0.03mg/l) are considered to be in insufficient levels

Summary

Introduction

Trace elements are natural constituents of the soils or the underlying geologic materials and may be mobilized by irrigation [20]. The term “heavy metals” is commonly used to refer to elements with metallic properties [6]. They have a relatively high density compared to water [4]; [12]. Another description often used interchangeably with heavy metals is “trace elements” [15]; [21]. They are considered as such because of their presence in trace concentrations in various environmental matrices [15]

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Methods

Results

Conclusion