Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Research Articles

Iron in Drinking Water and its Impact on Human Health –A Study in Selected Units of Jalalabad Cantonment

Background: Prevalence of diseases due to appearance of excessive amount of iron in drinking water is increasing day by day. Often people are unaware about the harmful effects of excess iron that may be present in drinking water. Sometimes they overlook minor symptoms. Adequate study was not conducted before to rule out actual scenario. The aim of this study is to represent the detrimental effect of excessive iron in drinking water as well as to create awareness to get rid of it. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 17 units of 17 Infantry Division, Jalalabad Cantonment, Sylhet covering the period of January 2019 to May 2019. Total 52 participants were selected purposively who had been suffering from various kinds of abdominal symptoms; their source of drinking water was marked. Water was collected from 5 different sources to see iron level. Again they were monitored after establishing Reverse Osmosis water filter. Iron level at drinking water was also tested each time at laboratory by Atomic Absorption spectrometry method. Informed written consent was taken from the patients. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed and data were collected by face to face interview. Analysis was done by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 25). Results: Among 52 respondents, maximum i.e. 25(48.07%) developed moderate to severe constipation followed by 16(30.76%) developed dyspepsia and while others i.e.11(21.15%) had both the symptoms. Symptoms were most severe among the persons who used to drink water having highest concentration of Iron (1.9 mg/L). After establishment of Reverse Osmosis water purifier the iron concentration in water reduced significantly and only 4(8%) had constipation and 6(12%) had dyspepsia. Conclusion: Iron is a natural constituent of drinking water. But considering the harmful impact of excessive iron present in drinking water to human health, regular monitoring should be ensured to identify the risk group. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (2) December 2023, pp 58-64

Arsenic, Cadmium, and Lead Levels in School Meals and Their Risk Assessment in Municipalities in Bahia, Brazil

Background: School meals represent a significant supply of nutrients for children in Brazil, especially those in conditions of social vulnerability. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in meals served in public elementary schools in four municipalities in the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assess the risk posed to children’s health. Methods: Ninety-six samples were collected from 16 schools, freeze-dried, and subjected to microwave-assisted digestion. The As, Cd, and Pb levels were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The risk assessment was based on calculating each element’s hazard quotient (HQ). Results: None of the samples reached or exceeded the tolerable levels for the elements analyzed. Pb was the metal that obtained the most significant result, reaching maximum levels of 39–157 µg·kg−1. Conclusions: No element exceeded the PTWI proposed by JECFA; thus, the toxic metal content in school meals poses a negligible risk to children’s health.

Green synthesis and optimization of iron oxide nanoparticles as MRI contrast agent

Iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) derived from herbal plants are being explored as potential magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents due to their biocompatibility and ability to perform targeted drug delivery. For the first time, the usage of various novel combinations of leaf extracts such as those of Azadirachta indica and Piper betle and extracts of two other Ayurvedic herbs – namely, Asparagus racemosus and Symplocos – was attempted for eco-friendly green synthesis of FeNPs. The nanoparticles were coated onto nanofibers made from a banana pseudo-stem (FENPs-NF) to enhance their biocompatibility. The synthesis process was optimized using response surface methodology, and techniques such as ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, vibrating-sample magnetometry, atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used for characterization. Hemolytic and immune cell assays, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and MRI analysis were carried out. A peak at 325 nm observed in UV–Vis spectroscopy, AAS, FE-SEM, EDX and FT-IR proved the presence of FeNPs. Hemolytic and immune cell assays indicated biocompatibility, and the MTT assay (MCF-7) showed inhibition at 250 μg/ml. FeNPs and FeNPs-NF showed a good signal loss in MRI analysis at 1.5 T, proving their contrast agent nature. Thus, FeNPs synthesized from herbal plant sources may open a new door for potential application in the biomedical field as a chemical-free and biocompatible MRI contrast agent.

Aluminum dynamics in nitrogen‐saturated Andisols in Tokyo

AbstractThe debate over whether forests around the Tokyo metropolitan area are nitrogen (N) saturation persists, as atmospheric N deposition in throughfall has decreased. This decrease is evidenced by a notable decline in samples collected in the 1990s (especially 1991–1992 and 1995). This decline can be attributed to a reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from automobiles. The acidity derived from N deposition can increase aluminum (Al) mobility. We conducted a monitoring study from September 2010 to December 2021 to elucidate the effects of decreased N deposition on Al concentrations and flux in a forested Andisol. Throughfall and soil‐percolated water samples were collected under stands of Japanese cedar and Japanese cypress in Hachioji, Tokyo (Field Museum Tamakyuryo). Major inorganic ions were determined by ion chromatography. Total Al concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry after concentration under acidic conditions. Aluminum and nitrate () concentrations were significantly correlated in the both Japanese cedar and Japanese cypress stands. In the case of the Japanese cedar stand, Al concentrations tended to decrease over time from November 2010 to May 2015. Based on stepwise multiple regression analysis, acid load associated with N transformation ([H+]load) was chosen as the sole factor affecting Al mobilization in the Japanese cedar stand. Decreased N deposition affects Al dynamics via a decrease in [H+]load.

Quantitative monitoring of pollution in Mitrovica Lake using empirical model and geographic information science & systems

ABSTRACT Continuous monitoring of water is crucial for assessing its quality. This paper aims to evaluate water quality in the Artificial Lake of Mitrovica, an area known for heavy metal pollution due to nearby industrial activities. To achieve this, we conducted a comprehensive year-long investigation of the lake, involving the assessment of water quality, spatial analysis, and pollutant evaluation at six different sampling locations, collected in April, June, and September to ensure consistent monitoring. We utilised atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) to measure concentrations of arsenic, chromium, copper, nickel, lead, zinc, and cadmium. Indices such as the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) and Metal Index (MI) were used to assess water quality. Additionally, spatial analysis was conducted using QGIS and Ordinary Kriging to visualise contamination levels across the study area. While many water parameters met international standards, certain sites, particularly those with lead concentrations (Pb2+), exceeded permissible limits, indicating areas of potential concern. This study offers valuable insights for policymaking at both local levels in Mitrovica as well as nationally in Kosova. The study overall emphasises the importance of addressing heavy metal pollution in the region.

Microelements, Fatty Acid Profile, and Selected Biomarkers in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) Muscle Tissue: Seasonal Variations and Health Risk Assessment

AbstractThe study assesses associations between microelement levels, fatty acid composition, and oxidative stress markers in grass carp muscle in the summer and autumn seasons. Additionally, various factors were considered, including the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total THQ (TTHQ), and metal pollution index (MPI), to evaluate potential health risks for consumers. The microelements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Li, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, and Zn) were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and total mercury was determined using cold-vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy (CV-AAS). Fatty acid profiling was realized using gas chromatography (GC) detection with a flame ionization detector (FID). The overall tendency of microelement levels was as follows: Fe > Zn > Al > Sr > Ba > Ni > Se > Cr> Cu > Mn > Pb > As > Li > Hg; <LOQ (below limit of quantification): Cd, and Co. The correlation analysis between concentrations of trace elements (Al, Ba, Cr, Cu, Mn, Li, Sr, Zn, and Hg) and the fatty acids (C16:0, C16:1, C18:1n9c, C18:2n6c, C20:4n6c, EPA, and DHA), as well as between Al, Ba, Fe, or Hg and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase—SOD, glutathione peroxidase—GPx, or total antioxidant status—TAS), revealed statistically significant interactions in different seasons. THQ values were lower than 1; TTHQ values ranged from 0.27 to 0.76. The main toxic elements forming TTHQ were Hg and Ni (49%). The calculated health risk assessment indices indicate a low concentration of observed elements and low risks associated with the consumption of grass carp muscle from the tested location, although concentrations and THQ of mercury and nickel may be of slight concern.

Heavy Metal Pollution Status in The Main Surface Waters of The N'djili River Basin in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Review with Application and Evaluation of Pollution Indices Evaluation

The aim of this study was to assess heavy metal pollution in the surface waters of the N'djili river watershed, as well as to determine the main sources of this pollution and their impact on water quality. Five sampling sites were selected in the watershed, representing a variety of urban and industrial influences. In these samples, trace metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. The respective mean concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) in the surface waters of the N'djili basin are 0.066 mg/L, 0.006 mg/L and 0.310 mg/L. The mean value of the degree of contamination (Dc) in the surface waters of the N'djili basin is greater than 3, indicating heavy contamination of these waters (Lukaya river, Matete river, N'djili river, Ntshuenge river, Ngwele river). The average values of for the trace metal pollution index (HPI) are below the threshold value of 100, so overall, these waters are not very polluted. Nevertheless, particularly high concentrations were observed in the waters of the Matete River, with values exceeding 100, indicating severe localized pollution. Correlation analysis between trace metals and HPI indicates that lead and cadmium are the main contributors to surface water toxicity in the N'djili basin. These results highlight the urgent need to develop targeted strategies to reduce pollution in order to preserve public health and aquatic ecosystems.

Serum Cadmium and Lead Levels in Thalassemic Patients of Najaf Governorate, Iraq.

Thematological is a class of hereditary hematologic illnesses resulting from abnormalities in the production of one or more hemoglobin chains. Patients with β-Thematological may have a reduction in heavy metal levels as a result of iron chelate medication. The aim is to study the levels of heavy metals (toxic) in the blood of beta-Thematological patients and compare them to healthy people for the purpose of arriving at indicators through which it is possible to assist in early diagnosis of this disease or reduce symptoms. The study included 80 patients in comparison with age- and gender-matched 40 healthy individuals as controls. Samples were gathered between July 1, 2023, and September 1, 2023. The patients were interviewed for socio-demographic variables, and their medical histories were obtained from the hospital files. Cadmium and lead concentrations were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). All samples from Thematological patients were taken after the chelating therapy. Cadmium levels in Thematological patients were found to be lower in both genders in the control group. Lead levels were found to be greater in male Thematological patients and lower in female Thematological patients than those in the control group of female Thematological patients. Additionally, it was observed that patients from areas outside of Najaf's city center had greater levels of lead and cadmium than patients from the city center. Cadmium and lead levels in the serum were often low in Thematological patients. Heavy metals are eliminated when deferasirox chelate is taken.

A novel potentiometric screen-printed electrode based on crown ethers/nano manganese oxide/Nafion composite for trace level determination of copper ion in biological fluids.

Copper levels in biological fluids are associated with Wilson's, Alzheimer's, Menke's, and Parkinson's diseases, making them good biochemical markers for these diseases. This study introduces a miniaturized screen-printed electrode (SPE) for the potentiometric determination of copper(II) in some biological fluids. Manganese(III) oxide nanoparticles (Mn2O3-NPs), dispersed in Nafion, are drop-casted onto a graphite/PET substrate, serving as the ion-to-electron transducer material. The solid-contact material is then covered by a selective polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane incorporated with 18-crown-6 as a neutral ion carrier for the selective determination of copper(II) ions. The proposed electrode exhibits a Nernstian response with a slope of 30.2 ± 0.3mV/decade (R2 = 0.999) over the linear concentration range 5.2 × 10-9 - 6.2 × 10-3mol/l and a detection limit of 1.1 × 10-9mol/l (69.9ng/l). Short-term potential stability is evaluated using constant current chronopotentiometry (CP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). A significant improvement in the electrode capacitance (91.5 μF) is displayed due to the use of Mn2O3-NPs as a solid contact. The presence of Nafion, with its high hydrophobicity properties, eliminates the formation of the thin water layer, facilitating the ion-to-electron transduction between the sensing membrane and the conducting substrate. Additionally, it enhances the adhesion of the polymeric sensing membrane to the solid-contact material, preventing membrane delamination and increasingthe electrode's lifespan. The high selectivity, sensitivity, and potential stability of the proposed miniaturized electrode suggests its use for the determination of copper(II) ions in human blood serum and milk samples. The results obtained agree fairly well with data obtained by flameless atomic absorption spectrometry.

Soil contamination in a cemetery area: a case study in Nova Hartz City—RS, Brazil

We conducted a study in a cemetery area covering 2608.53 m2 in the municipality of Nova Hartz, Metropolitan Region of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. Soil samples were collected to determine the physicochemical parameters of the local soil at nine points within the study area and at three different depths (0 cm, 50 cm, and 120 cm). Granulometry and saturated hydraulic conductivity of the soil were assessed, and chemical analyses for Cadmium, Cobalt, Copper, and Chromium were performed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometry technique.The results revealed that the soil exhibited average values of 78.34% sand, 8.25% silt, and 13.41% clay, classifying it as sandy loam. The saturated hydraulic conductivity was measured at 5.7 × 10–4 cm s−1 across the profile (from 0 to 120 cm). Chemical analyses identified concentrations exceeding the allowed limits for Cadmium (points 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9), Cobalt (points 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8), and Copper (points 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8), with only two values for Chromium (both at point 7). Some points exhibited concentrations above the maximum allowed values at multiple depths. Evaluating vertical distribution, Cadmium did not show depth variations, suggesting a possible natural origin unrelated to cemetery activities. Conversely, Copper, Cobalt, and Chromium displayed increased concentrations with depth. In conclusion, significant changes in concentrations of Cadmium, Cobalt, and Copper were observed, especially between depths of 0 and 120 cm.

A straightforward deep eutectic solvent-based extraction for the determination of lead in drill cuttings by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

A straightforward deep eutectic solvent-based extraction for the determination of lead in drill cuttings by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

ACTIVATED CARBON DERIVED FROM GROUNDNUT SHELL AND RICE HUSK FOR THE ADSORPTION OF HEAVY METALS IN TANNERY WASTEWATER

ACTIVATED CARBON DERIVED FROM GROUNDNUT SHELL AND RICE HUSK FOR THE ADSORPTION OF HEAVY METALS IN TANNERY WASTEWATER

Estimation of potential health risks on metals and metalloids contaminants in black goby (Gobius niger) consumption in selected niger delta coast, nigeria

IntroductionThe Niger Delta in Nigeria is subject to anthropogenic influences, impacting the quality of its water bodies, including the Sombrero River. This study aims to investigate the concentrations of metals and metalloids in Gobius niger from the Sombrero River, as these contaminants can pose risks to human health through seafood consumption. Specifically, zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Materials and MethodsSamples were collected from three different stations along the Sombrero River. The concentrations of Zn, Fe, Cu, Pb, As, and Cd were determined using AAS. Hazard Quotients (HQ), Chronic Daily Intake (CDI), Hazard Index (HI), and Individual Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values were calculated to assess the potential health risks associated with consuming fish contaminated with these metals and metalloids. ResultsStation 1 had the highest Zn concentration, followed by Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, and As, with Zn reaching 104.8 ± 1.37 mg kg−1. Station 2 exhibited a similar trend, while Station 3 had Zn as the predominant metal and metalloid. Notably, Pb, As, and Cd levels were consistently low at all stations. While Pb was within permissible limits set by FAO/WHO for contaminants in the fish samples, Zn exceeded regulatory guidelines, suggesting a potential source of contamination. Hazard Quotients (HQ) highlighted a significant risk associated with zinc, especially for children. Chronic Daily Intake values showed metals in fish consumed by adults and children were generally within safe limits, except for Zn, which exceeded Maximum Tolerable Daily Intake (MTDI). Hazard Index values pointed to a substantial long-term health risk, particularly for children due to high zinc levels. However, Individual Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values were generally below 1, indicating relatively low cancer risks from G. niger consumption for both age groups. ConclusionThis study emphasizes the need for monitoring and managing metals and metalloid pollution in the Niger Delta region to ensure safe seafood consumption and community well-being. While certain metals pose minimal health risks, it highlights the necessity of specific interventions to reduce excessive zinc exposure and safeguard long-term health in the region.

Development and initial evaluation of a combustion-based sample introduction system for direct isotopic analysis of mercury in solid samples via multi-collector ICP-mass spectrometry

High-precision isotopic analysis of mercury (Hg) using multi-collector ICP-mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) is a powerful method for obtaining insight into the sources, pathways and sinks of this toxic metal. Modification of a commercially available mercury analyzer (Teledyne Leeman Labs, Hydra IIc – originally designed for quantification of Hg through sample combustion, collection of the Hg vapor on a gold amalgamator, subsequent controlled release of Hg and detection using cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry CVAAS) enabled the system to be used for the direct high-precision Hg isotopic analysis of solid samples using MC-ICP-MS – i.e., without previous sample digestion and subsequent dilution. The changes made to the mercury analyzer did not compromise its (simultaneous) use for Hg quantification via CVAAS. The Hg vapor was mixed with a Tl-containing aerosol produced via pneumatic nebulization, creating wet plasma conditions, and enabling the use of Tl as an internal standard for correction of instrumental mass discrimination. Accurate and precise (0.10 ‰ 2SD, δ202Hg, n = 5) results were obtained for an in-house standard solution of Hg (20 ng Hg sample intake). Initial validation relied on the successful analysis of two solid certified reference materials of biological origin (BCR CRM 464 Tuna fish and NRC-CNRC TORT-3 Lobster hepatopancreas). It was shown that instrumental mass discrimination can be adequately corrected for by relying on the use of an aqueous Hg standard solution (NIST SRM 3133), without the need of matrix-matching. The novel setup developed thus allows for direct high-precision isotopic analysis of Hg in solid samples, thus enhancing the sample throughput. It is also suited for samples for which low amounts are available only and/or that are characterized by low Hg concentrations.

Comparison of heavy metal residue in selected processed canned tomato paste and bottled tomato sauce using atomic absorption spectrometry

Heavy metals are used to manufacture various types of packaging materials such as cans and glass bottle containers. Determination of heavy metal concentration presence in processed food products is crucial to identify specific possibly hazard metal contaminants and create public awareness upon consumption. A total of ten samples consisting of five different brands of canned tomato paste and bottled tomato sauce sold in Malaysia were analysed for the concentration of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) metals residues by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The average heavy metals concentration of all samples was arranged in increasing order, Cd > Ni > Cr > Pb > Zn > Fe. The highest level of metal was Fe (69.93 mg/kg) while the lowest was Cd (0.01 mg/kg). The concentration of Pb, Cr and Ni in all samples exceed the permissible limit set by the World Health Organisation 2011, the European Commission 2006 and the Malaysia Food Act and Regulation 1985 except Zn. There is a significant difference between heavy metal concentrations in canned tomato paste and bottled tomato sauce (p˂0.05). Therefore, this study suggests efficient monitoring and inspection of both agricultural environment quality and industrial processing procedures.

Influence of metals on lignocellulolytic enzyme production and metal removal by Phlebia brevispora in a wheat straw based fixed‐bed bioreactor

AbstractHeavy metals contamination poses a significant environmental threat, which requires the development of eco‐friendly bioremediation techniques. Present research work was conducted using wheat straw in submerged conditions for the growth of white rot fungus, Phlebia brevispora in the presence of varying concentrations of Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cr. The lignocellulolytic enzyme production ability of fungus was monitored. A wheat straw‐based fixed‐bed bioreactor was designed to treat metal‐containing water in continuous mode. The fungus showed a positive influence on laccase production, cellulase production, and lignin peroxidase activity. As observed through atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Cr removal efficiency was 78%–80%, regardless of the initial metal concentration. The Cr was also found on the surface of fungal mycelium as per the results obtained from SEM–EDX. The continuous bioreactor achieved 98%–99% metal removal, making it a natural and cost‐effective solution for metal removal from wastewater using P. brevispora.

Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activity of the Vegetative Buds from Romanian Spruce, Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.

This study aims to investigate the vegetative buds from Picea abies (spruce), naturally found in a central region of Romania, through a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition to identify bioactive compounds responsible for pharmacological properties. Using HPLC/derivatization technique of GC-MS and quantitative spectrophotometric assays, the phenolic profile, and main components of an ethanolic extract from the buds were investigated. The essential oil was characterized by GC-MS. Moreover, the antioxidant activity with the DPPH method, and the antimicrobial activity were tested. Heavy metal detection was performed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The main components of the alcoholic extract were astragalin, quercetin, kaempferol, shikimic acid, and quinic acid. A total content of 25.32 ± 2.65 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram of dry plant (mg GAE/g DW) and of 10.54 ± 0.083 mg rutin equivalents/g of dry plant (mg RE/g DW) were found. The essential oil had D-limonene, α-cadinol, δ-cadinene, 13-epimanool, and δ-3-carene as predominant components. The spruce vegetative buds exhibited significant antioxidant activity (IC50 of 53 μg/mL) and antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, concentrations of heavy metals Pb and Cd were below detection limits, suggesting that the material was free from potentially harmful contaminants. The results confirmed the potential of this indigenous species to be used as a source of compounds with pharmacological utilities.

Possible influence of shipping operations on trace metals gradients along the Commodore Channel, Lagos State, Nigeria

The impact of shipping operations on the level of trace metals along the Commodore Channel of the Lagos lagoon is a topic that requires careful consideration. Shipping activities can have a significant impact on the water quality of the lagoon, which in turn can affect the health of the flora and fauna that depend on it. This study attempts to assess the impact of shipping operations on the level of trace metals along the Commodore Channel of the Lagos lagoon. Concentrations of trace metals in the Lagos Lagoon specifically the Commodore channel were determined in March 2016, and the downstream variation was compared. Trace metals (Pb, Cd, Fe, Zn and Co) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The concentration of trace metals were found to be beyond the permissible limits stipulated by World Health Organization (WHO) and European Union (EU). There exists an exception in the mean level of Zn (0.23±0.1107mg/L) in the harbor water which was lower than the WHO standard of 5mg/L as at the time of this study. The trace metals showed the decreasing order of Pb > Fe > Zn > Co > Cd with concentration of 1.0±0.6mg/L, 0.62±0.2mg/L. 0.23±0.1107, 0.14±0.12mg/L and 0.05±0.02mg/L respectively. The result of contamination factor showed the harbor water had very high degree of Pb and Cd contamination. This high CF can be caused by the shipping and vessel transportation route and gateway of the harbor into the country. Continuous monitoring is required to assess environmental quality and adopt suitable management techniques in order to prevent the negative impacts of shipping operations on trace metal occurrence in harbors.

Quantifying Heavy Metal Accumulation in Soil and Vegetation Surrounding Industrial Areas: A Comprehensive Environmental Toxicology Study

Background: Industrial activities release significant amounts of heavy metals into the environment, contaminating soil and vegetation. This pollution poses severe risks to ecosystems and human health, making it a crucial area of study. Objective: To quantify the accumulation of heavy metals in soil and vegetation surrounding industrial areas and assess the ecological risks associated with this contamination. Methods: The study involved quantitative analysis of soil and plant samples from industrial and control areas. Heavy metals analyzed included lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, chromium, and nickel. Methods included atomic absorption spectroscopy for metal quantification, bioaccumulation factor (BAF) calculation for plants, and ecological risk assessment using the ecological risk index (ERI). Results: Soil samples from industrial zones showed significantly higher concentrations of lead (175 mg/kg), cadmium (8 mg/kg), and chromium (90 mg/kg) compared to control areas (lead: 30 mg/kg, cadmium: 2 mg/kg, chromium: 20 mg/kg). Plant tissues from these areas also revealed elevated levels of lead (12 mg/kg), cadmium (2 mg/kg), and nickel (8 mg/kg), against lower concentrations in control samples (lead: 3 mg/kg, cadmium: 0.5 mg/kg, nickel: 2 mg/kg). The ecological risk index underscored a high risk in industrial zones (ERI = 85) compared to control areas (ERI = 30). Conclusion: The study highlights the critical contamination of soil and vegetation with heavy metals near industrial zones and the consequent ecological risks. These findings emphasize the need for immediate remediation strategies and stricter regulatory frameworks to mitigate the impacts of this pollution.

Biomass derived activated carbons in wastewater treatment – The aim of metallurgical industry

In the presented study, two commercial powder activated carbons (ACs) produced from low-cost biomass: coconut shells and wooden chips, were used in the adsorption process. The treated solution was wastewater obtained from production area of metallurgical industrial plant, which was analysed before and after the adsorption process using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The adsorption process proceeded at two pH levels 7 and 9. The removed pollutants were Cd, Co, Cu, Ni, Sb, and Zn. Based on the adsorption results, the correlation between adsorption efficiency, pH and ACs properties was determined. The complicated composition of the tested wastewater causes that the adsorption mechanism did not have to be obvious due to the phenomena occurring in the multi-component system. Both ACs adsorbed ions efficiently, better results were obtained for AC derived from coconut shells. It was found that higher pH correlate with higher adsorption efficiency for every checked type of ions. AC with higher iodine number, mainly basic surface groups and higher micropores volume had better efficiency for adsorption Cd, Co, Cu, Ni and Zn. AC with higher surface area and presence of acidic surface groups only, had better efficiency in Sb adsorption process.