Determination Of Trace Metals Research Articles

Inter-laboratory study for the certification of trace elements in seawater certified reference materials NASS-7 and CASS-6.

Certification of trace metals in seawater certified reference materials (CRMs) NASS-7 and CASS-6 is described. At the National Research Council Canada (NRC), column separation was performed to remove the seawater matrix prior to the determination of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, Mo, Ni, U, V, and Zn, whereas As was directly measured in 10-fold diluted seawater samples, and B was directly measured in 200-fold diluted seawater samples. High-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICPMS) was used for elemental analyses, with double isotope dilution for the accurate determination of B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mo, Ni, U, and Zn in seawater NASS-7 and CASS-6, and standard addition calibration for As, Co, Mn, and V. In addition, all analytes were measured using standard addition calibration with triple quadrupole (QQQ)-ICPMS to provide a second set of data at NRC. Expert laboratories worldwide were invited to contribute data to the certification of trace metals in NASS-7 and CASS-6. Various analytical methods were employed by participants including column separation, co-precipitation, and simple dilution coupled to ICPMS detection or flow injection analysis coupled to chemiluminescence detection, with use of double isotope dilution calibration, matrix matching external calibration, and standard addition calibration. Results presented in this study show that majority of laboratories have demonstrated their measurement capabilities for the accurate determination of trace metals in seawater. As a result of this comparison, certified/reference values and associated uncertainties were assigned for 14 elements in seawater CRMs NASS-7 and CASS-6, suitable for the validation of methods used for seawater analysis.

Application of MALDI-TOFMS Combined with Partial Least Square Regression for the Determination of Mercury and Copper in Canned Tuna, Using Dithizone as the Complexing Agent and Ag(I) as Internal Standard

In this work, a procedure for the determination of mercury and copper in canned tuna samples is presented, based on the extraction of their respective dithizone complexes and quantification by conventional MALDI-TOFMS with the aid of partial least square regression (PLS2). Methanolic dithizone solution (1 ml, 0.01% m/v) containing Ag(I) as internal standard was added to the calibration solutions and to the acid-digested samples (5 ml, pH 3); copper, mercury, and silver complexes were extracted to cyclohexane (1.5 ml), and after evaporation, the residues were re-constituted in acetone (100 μl). The samples were prepared by dried droplet crystallization with α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid. The experimental and MALDI-TOFMS instrument operating conditions were set up under criteria of as high as possible detectability and repeatability. When univariate calibration was carried out using the most intense ion of Cu or Hg complex normalized by internal standard, determination seemed feasible yet precision of the results was poor. Taking baseline-corrected spectra in m/z range 560–725, PLS2 model was constructed for the prediction of two elements with the method quantification limits 63 μg kg−1 for Cu and 75 μg kg−1 for Hg, respectively. For different brands of canned tuna, the results obtained by MALDI-TOFMS combined with PLS2 and by ICP-MS were in good agreement. The proposed procedure is an attractive alternative for the determination of trace metals in foods because of the procedural simplicity, micro-scale dimension, high speed of data acquisition/processing, and the cost of instrument operation lower as compared to any atomic spectrometry technique.

An Ultra-clean Multilayer Apparatus for Collecting Size Fractionated Marine Plankton and Suspended Particles.

The distributions of many trace elements in the ocean are strongly associated with the growth, death, and re-mineralization of marine plankton and those of suspended/sinking particles. Here, we present an all plastic (Polypropylene and Polycarbonate), multi-layer filtration system for collection of suspended particulate matter (SPM) at sea. This ultra-clean sampling device has been designed and developed specifically for trace element studies. Meticulous selection of all non-metallic materials and utilization of an in-line flow-through procedure minimizes any possible metal contamination during sampling. This system has been successfully tested and tweaked for determining trace metals (e.g., Fe, Al, Mn, Cd, Cu, Ni) on particles of varying size in coastal and open ocean waters. Results from the South China Sea at the South East Asia Time-Series (SEATS) station indicate that diurnal variations and spatial distribution of plankton in the euphotic zone can be easily resolved and recognized. Chemical analysis of size-fractionated particles in surface waters of the Taiwan Strait suggests that the larger particles (>153 µm) were mostly biologically derived, while the smaller particles (10 - 63 µm) were mostly composed of inorganic matter. Apart from Cd, the concentrations of metals (Fe, Al, Mn, Cu, Ni) decreased with increasing size.

Determination of trace metals in Mytilus galloprovincialis along the Boka Kotorska Bay, Montenegrin coast

The concentrations of six trace metals, cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn) and mercury (Hg) were determined in the soft tissues of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis and bottom sediments collected from the coastal area of Boka Kotorska Bay (Montenegrin coast). The mussels and sediment samples were collected at three sites along the Boka Kotorska Bay from the autumn of 2014 to the winter of 2016. The concentrations (mg/kg dw) of these metals in the mussel samples ranged from 1.01 to 2.87 for Cd, 6.08 to 13.2 for Cu, 1.37 to 3.55 for Pb, 85.6 to 241 for Zn, 0.72 to 4.05 for Cr and 0.098 to 0.269 for Hg. The concentrations (mg/kg dw) of these metals in the sediment samples ranged from 0.16 to 0.39 for Cd, 4.32 to 48.2 for Cu, 7.02 to 49.8 for Pb, 22.0 to 158 for Zn, 93.1 to 317 for Cr and 0.035 to 0.497 for Hg. The metal content in the mussel samples and the metal content in the sediment collected from three locations over four different seasons were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) and cluster analysis (CA). A correlation between the metal levels found in the mussel soft tissues with those found in the sediments, for both 2014 and 2015, were established. The metal pollution indexes (MPI) for the sediment and mussels were compared, indicating that the most polluted sediment was at the location Institute of Marine Biology Kotor (IBMK) and the most polluted mussels were sampled from the Zanjice location.

Thermoresponsive polymer-mediated extraction for graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometric determination of trace metals in high purity iron

A thermoresponsive polymer-mediated extraction was designed for the selective separation of traces metal ions from high purity iron solutions. Traces metals were extracted into the coagulum of a thermoresponsive polymer, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) as their dibenzyldithiocarbamate chelates, while Fe(III) matrix remained in the bulk aqueous solution as its water-soluble tartrate chelate. The coagulum was readily collected from the solution and then dissolved with a small amount of N,N-dimethylformamide for the introduction to a graphite furnace of atomic absorption spectrometer. The use of 0.5gl−1 poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), 2.0mM sodium dibenzyldithiocarbamate, and 0.6M diammonium tartrate (pH10.7) allowed nearly complete (>99.9%) collection of Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), and Bi(III) with reducing Fe(III) concentration from 50mgml−1 to 14±1μgml−1 being lower than the tolerance limits for the determination of traces of metals. Because of effective elimination of iron matrix, six metals at fractional μgg−1 levels were successfully determined with high reproducibility. The accuracy and precision were evaluated by analyzing certified reference materials of high purity iron.

Determination of trace metals in spirits by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

Eight spirituous samples were analyzed for trace metal content with Horizon Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF) Spectrometer. The expected single metal amount is at the ng/g level in a mixed aqueous/organic matrix, thus requiring a sample preparation method capable of achieving suitable limits of detection. On-site enrichment and Atmospheric Pressure-Vapor Phase Decomposition allowed to detect Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr and Pb with detection limits ranging from 0.1ng/g to 4.6ng/g. These results highlight how the synergy between instrument and sample preparation strategy may foster the use of TXRF as a fast and reliable technique for the determination of trace elements in spirituous samples, either for quality control or risk assessment purposes.

Triethylamine-assisted Mg(OH)2 coprecipitation/preconcentration for determination of trace metals and rare earth elements in seawater by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)

In this paper, we report an improved magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2, coprecipitation method for the determination of 16 trace elements (Al, V, Cr, Mn, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Sb, Sn and Pb) and 18 rare earth elements (REEs), including Sc, Y, U and Th in seawater and estuarine water samples. The procedure involves coprecipitation of the trace elements and REEs on Mg(OH)2 upon addition of a small volume of triethylamine (TEA) followed by analysis of the dissolved pellet solutions by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Three-step sequential coprecipitation was carried out on 10 mL aliquots of seawater to eliminate the matrix ions and to preconcentrate the analytes of interest into a 1 mL final volume. Spike recoveries varied from 85% (Th) to 105% (Y). Calcium (Ca), sodium (Na) and potassium (K) matrices were virtually eliminated from the analysis solutions. Collision reaction interface (CRI) technology utilizing H2 and He gases was employed to determine its effectiveness in removing the spectral interferences originating from the residual Mg matrix, TEA and plasma gases. H2 was more effective than He in reducing spectral interferences from TEA and plasma gases. Limits of detection (LODs) ranged from 0.01 ng L−1 (Ho) to 72 ng L−1 (Al). The method was validated by using certified seawater (CASS-4) and estuarine water (SLEW-3) reference materials. Precision for five (n = 5) replicate measurements were between 1.2% (Pr) and 18% (Lu). Fe, Pb, Sn, and Zn impurities in TEA were significant in comparison to the levels in CASS-4 and SLEW-3, while relatively high background signals impacted determinations of low levels of Sc and Th. The effects of these hurdles on precision and accuracy were alleviated by measuring these elements in spiked CASS-4 and SLEW-3.

Comparison of Electromagnetic Wave Sensors with Optical and Low-frequency Spectroscopy Methods for Real-time Monitoring of Lead Concentrations in Mine Water

The feasibility of using novel electromagnetic wave sensors for real-time monitoring of metal pollution in water was assessed. Five solutions with different concentrations of lead (0, 1, 10, 50, 100 mg/L) were measured using several sensing methods: UV–Vis spectroscopy, low frequency capacitance and resistance measurements, and two sensing systems based on microwave technology. With this last approach, two sensing devices were used: a resonant cavity and a planar sensor with gold interdigitated electrode design printed on a PTFE substrate with a protective PCB lacquer coating. Results confirmed the ability of these systems to quantify the lead concentration as changes in spectrum signal at specific frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum. Spectra were unique, with clearly observed shifts in the resonant frequencies of the sensors when placed in direct contact with different lead solutions, demonstrating the possibility of continuous monitoring with great sensitivity, selectivity, and high spatial and temporal resolution. Consequently, determination of trace and toxic metals using microwave spectroscopy is a promising alternative to traditional grab-sampling and laboratory based analyses. On-line and continuous monitoring of real-time metal concentrations offers the potential for a more effective emergency response and the platform for better scientific understanding and remediation of contaminated mine drainage.

Determination of trace metals in fruit juices in the Portuguese market.

Fruit juices are amongst the most non-alcoholic beverages appreciated and consumed in European countries, including Portugal. These beverages contain minerals, nutrients, trace elements, vitamins and phytochemicals, which are essential for a healthy life. However, fruit juices may also contain high levels of metals, posing a health risk to humans, especially to children, since they consume more fruit juice per body weight unit, and have a less varied diet than adults. Thus, in order to guarantee food safety and to make sound nutritional considerations, fruit juices require careful investigation. The main purpose of this study was to determine arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn) and nickel (Ni) concentrations in 21 fruit juices from 4 different brands, previously selected by the ASAE (Portuguese Food and Economic Safety Authority), and available in the Portuguese market. Results obtained were compared with permissible levels set out by WHO (World Health Organization), USEPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency), by the Portuguese law, and with similar studies performed in other countries. A validation process, including linearity, range, analytical thresholds, precision, accuracy and specificity/selectivity was conducted in order to guarantee reliable analytical data. The results showed that As levels in four samples, Ni in thirteen samples and Mn in all the twenty-one samples, were above the maximal permissible values specified by Decree-Law 306/2007 from 27th August of the Portuguese Legislation. These data establish the need for reduction of metal concentrations in consumed juices.

Chemical Characterization of Coal And Pollutants Management From Different Bricks Fields In Uttar Pradesh

Air pollution is a serious public health problem in all over the world. Coal burning in the brick kilns is contributing significantly to the worst air quality in Uttar Pradesh. Five coal samples were collected from five different brick fields in Uttar Pradesh (Kursi Road - Lucknow, Sitapur Road - Lucknow, Diamond - Barabanki, Awadh – Barabanki and Suraj - Barabanki). Elemental composition (C, N, H and S) with CHN analyzer and trace metals (Na, K, Ca, Fe, Cr, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Ni) with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) were determined in the coal samples. Coal samples were grinded and extracted with distilled de-ionized water with temperature control water bath and sonicator. The average concentration of nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen and sulfur were 13.4 (wt%), 34.2 (wt%), 5.89 (wt%) and 4.59 (wt%), respectively. Carbon and sulfur are very important for the atmospheric pollution as they may undergo many primary and secondary chemical reactions. The average concentrations of the determined trace metals were 14.2±7.5 ppm for Sodium, 0.8±0.6 ppm for Potassium, 11.4±11.7 ppm for Calcium and 11.0 ± 12.7 ppm for Iron. Chromium, Cadmium, Cupper, Lead and Nickel concentrations were found below detection limit. The results showed that pollutants containing coals are the potential threat for human health especially for the worker those who are working in the brick industries. The management of pollutants emitted from brick kilns has to be high combustion efficiency coal particles during process of devolatisation, use of coal with particle size smaller than 3/ 4 inch and keep sufficiently long firing zone (coal feeding zone of at least 3-4 lines) so that the volatiles get sufficient space (high temperature zone) to mix and burn.

Final report of the SIM.QM-S7 supplementary comparison, trace metals in drinking water

SIM.QM-S7 was performed to assess the analytical capabilities of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) of SIM members (or other regions) for the accurate determination of trace metals in drinking water. The study was proposed by the coordinating laboratories National Research Council Canada (NRC) and Centro Nacional de Metrologia (CENAM) as an activity of Inorganic Analysis Working Group (IAWG) of Consultative Committee for Amount of Substance - Metrology in Chemistry and Biology (CCQM). Participants included 16 NMIs/DIs from 15 countries. No measurement method was prescribed by the coordinating laboratories. Therefore, NMIs used measurement methods of their choice. However, the majority of NMIs/DIs used ICP-MS.This SIM.QM-S7 Supplementary Comparison provides NMIs/DIs with the needed evidence for CMC claims for trace elements in fresh waters and similar matrices.Main textTo reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Fabric fiber sorbent extraction for on-line toxic metal determination by atomic absorption spectrometry: Determination of lead and cadmium in energy and soft drinks

A novel simple and sensitive on-line flow injection (FI) fabric fiber sorbent extraction (FFSE) system adapted to flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) for automatic trace metal determination has been established. The FFSE platform is based on polyester fabric fibers coated with sol-gel poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) packed into a microcolumn as sorbent packing material. The potentials of this new scheme were assessed for direct Pb(II) and Cd(II) determination in energy and soft drink samples. The on-line retention of target analytes on sol-gel coated fibers was carried out with sodium diethyl dithiocarbamate (DDTC), while elution was performed with methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK). The effect of the main chemical and flow parameters on the sensitivity of the method was thoroughly studied. For a loading time of 90s with a sampling frequency of 30h−1, enhancement factors of 167 and 40 and detection limits (3σ) of 1.6 and 0.3μgL−1 were obtained for Pb(II) and Cd(II) determination, respectively. The trueness of the developed method was estimated by analyzing a certified reference material and spiked tap water.

Tetrathiafulvalene aids in the atomic spectroscopic determination of total mercury

The determination of mercury simultaneously with other elements via inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in airborne particulate matter (PM2.5) is still challenging due to the lack of accuracy for the low level mercury concentrations as a result of its volatility and tendency to adhere to the walls of the sample introduction system. This study investigated the effect of existing (gold and methionine) and new (lithium tetrathiafulvalene carboxylate (LiCTTF)) preservation agents in order to improve the determination of trace mercury in PM2.5 samples. Statistical analysis revealed that a concentration of 10 μg mL−1 of LiCTTF was sufficient to obtain highly accurate results with t values of 0.1044–1.1239 which are considerably less than the critical t value of 1.8 and apparent recoveries of 85–100%. An evaluation of the method revealed a spiked mercury recovery of 91% and a detection limit of 0.05 ng mL−1. The method was tested for the determination of trace metals in PM2.5 from atmospheric samples and led to the detection of low elemental concentrations in Singapore's atmosphere. The mechanism for the interaction of mercury with LiCTTF and tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) was studied by conducting in situ electrochemical studies. Cyclic voltammetry and square-wave voltammetry analyses of mercury, and mercury in presence of LiCTTF and TTF revealed complexation between the metal and sulfur-containing compounds.

Determination of water quality, and trace metals in endemic Sarotherodon linellii, Pungu maclareni and Clarias maclareni, in crater Lake Barombi Mbo, Cameroon

Considering water pollution as a potential threat to some endemic cichlids of Lake Barombi Mbo, Cameroon, an investigation was done in 2011 to determine trace metals in its water, linking their uptake in gills and liver of fish to water chemistry. ICP-MS and ICP-OES analyses of trace metals based on total concentration of unfiltered lake water samples showed the presence of trace metals. All fish species accumulated Al, Mn and Sr in the highest concentrations in their gills, with Cu, Cd, Co, Cr, Pb and U highest in the liver. Pungu maclareni accumulated Al, Cr, Co, Sr and Pb in the highest concentrations. The highest mean gill Al concentration of 140 µg g−1 dry weight was measured in P. maclareni gills, this being one of the critically endangered cichlids of the lake. Stable isotope analyses of carbon δ13C and nitrogen δ15N showed that P. maclareni had the highest mean δ13C (−30.2‰) and highest concentrations of Cr, Co, Pb and U in liver, probably linking the carbon source to the accumulation of metals. Though trace metal levels in the lake water were low, their presence in fish tissues suggest they are bioavailable, bioaccumulate and may pose a threat to the aquatic biota, and therefore should be monitored.

Determination of trace metals and analysis of arsenic species in tropical marine fishes from Spratly islands

Trace metal contents in 38 species of tropical marine fishes harvested from the Spratly islands of China were determined by microwave digestion and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. Arsenic species were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. The average levels of Al, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Mo, Cd, Pb, and U in the fish samples were 1.683, 0.350, 0.367, 2.954, 36.615, 0.087, 0.319, 1.566, 21.946, 20.845, 2.526, 3.583, 0.225, 0.140, and 0.061mg·kg−1, respectively; Fe, Zn, and As were found at high concentrations. The trace metals exhibited significant positive correlation between each other, with r value of 0.610–0.852. Further analysis indicated that AsB (8.560–31.020mg·kg−1) was the dominant arsenic species in the fish samples and accounted for 31.48% to 47.24% of the total arsenic. As(III) and As(V) were detected at low concentrations, indicating minimal arsenic toxicity.

Determination of trace metals in TSP and PM2.5 materials collected in the Metropolitan Area of Monterrey, Mexico: A characterization study by XPS, ICP-AES and SEM-EDS

The concentration levels of trace metals of toxicological importance were evaluated in the total suspended particles (TSP) and particulate matter smaller than 2.5μm (PM2.5) collected in the Metropolitan Area of Monterrey (MAM) in Mexico. Samples were characterized by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive spectroscopy system (SEM-EDS). In addition, the data were statistically treated by the methodology of Pearson Correlation (PC) and Principal Components Analysis (PCA) to identify the possible emitting sources. Surface analysis of the particulate matter (PM) by XPS revealed that the most abundant elements were Ca, Al, Na, Zn, Cu and Mg. The deconvolution of the Ca2p, Zn2p and Cu2p signals showed that the main contributors were CaCO3, ZnO and Cu/Cu2O, respectively. The bulk analysis of the PM by ICP-AES showed Fe, Cu and Zn as the most abundant elements. Fe-rich particles presented two different morphologies: the prismatic particles were associated with a natural origin, while the spherical particles with anthropogenic sources. The Zn and Cu were predominantly observed in the sampling stations with high vehicular traffic, and the emitting sources were associated with the burning of fuels from automobiles and the wear of the tires and brakes. The highest concentration of Pb was detected in the sampling station located near the industrial zones, and its cause was associated with the ceramic and glass industries, the burning of fuel oil in power plants and the production of lead-based batteries for automobiles.

Reversed phase StrataTM-X resin as sorbent for automatic on-line solid phase extraction atomic absorption spectrometric determination of trace metals: comparison of polymeric-based sorbent materials

ABSTRACTA novel on-line flow injection solid phase extraction method for the preconcentration of trace toxic metals prior determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FI-SPE-FAAS) was developed. The potential application of the hydrophobic reversed phase co-polymer sorbent StrataTM-X packed into an on-line microcolumn for the quantification of Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II) and Cr(VI) was demonstrated for the first time. The method was based on the on-line formation of metal complexes using sodium diethyl-dithiocarbamate (DDTC) and on the subsequent retention of them onto the sorbent material. The target analytes were completely eluted by methanol and, subsequently, directed to FAAS for quantification. All chemical and flow variables affecting the performance of the developed method were thoroughly studied and optimised. For a preconcentration time of 90 s and a sampling frequency of 28 h−1, enhancement factors of 72, 140, 185, 63 and detection limits of 0.18, 1.6, 0.20 and 1.2 μg L −1 were obtained for Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II) and Cr(VI), respectively. The accuracy of the FI-SPE-FAAS method was evaluated by analysing certified reference materials as well as spiked environmental water samples. Furthermore, a comparative study of the analytical characteristics, the properties as well as the chemical structures of commercial polymeric based sorbent materials was employed. Strata-X sorbent was compared against HypersepTM SCX, Bond Elut® PlexaTM PCX, Oasis-HLBTM and NobiasTM PA-1, regarding the adaptation in on-line FI-SPE-FAAS systems for metal determination, and herein presented.

Icp-Ms Determination of Trace Metals in Drinking Water Sources in Jazan Area, Saudi Arabia

Requisite reference facts about essential elements in treated and plastic bottled drinking water is usually mentioned on the products. However, more information is sometime crucial regarding trace elements in treated, bottled and other sources of drinking water such as tap water to evaluate their quality. This study is aimed to evaluate drinking water quality in the main governorates (Jazan, Sabya and Abu Arish) of Jazan province located in the South-Western region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This is the first such study carried out in Jazan city so that the research team can come out with valuable recommendations in the issue. The research team has collected a sum of 68 water samples from different sources comprising hospitals (treated tap water), stations for drinking water treatment (large blue bottles of drinking water) and bottled drinking water (purchased from local markets). Using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), the concentrations of 20 elements were determined. The physiochemical parameters of water samples were measured. All parameters were within the recommended limits of the World Health Organization (WHO, 2011) and Gulf Cooperation Council Standardization Organization (GSO, 2008). Trace and major elements were found to be below the standard guideline values , except for uranium in some tap water samples. This preliminary study will significantly improve the awareness and knowledge among the society about the drinking water quality in Jazan area.

Atmospheric trace metals measured at a regional background site (Welgegund) in South Africa

Abstract. Atmospheric trace metals can cause a variety of health-related and environmental problems. Only a few studies on atmospheric trace metal concentrations have been conducted in South Africa. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine trace metal concentrations in aerosols collected at a regional background site, i.e. Welgegund, South Africa. PM1, PM1–2. 5 and PM2. 5–10 samples were collected for 13 months, and 31 atmospheric trace metal species were detected. Atmospheric iron (Fe) had the highest concentrations in all three size fractions, while calcium (Ca) was the second-most-abundant species. Chromium (Cr) and sodium (Na) concentrations were the third- and fourth-most-abundant species, respectively. The concentrations of the trace metal species in all three size ranges were similar, with the exception of Fe, which had higher concentrations in the PM1 size fraction. With the exception of titanium (Ti), aluminium (Al) and manganese (Mg), 70 % or more of the trace metal species detected were in the smaller size fractions, which indicated the influence of industrial activities. However, the large influence of wind-blown dust was reflected by 30 % or more of trace metals being present in the PM2. 5–10 size fraction. Comparison of trace metals determined at Welgegund to those in the western Bushveld Igneous Complex indicated that at both locations similar species were observed, with Fe being the most abundant. However, concentrations of these trace metal species were significantly higher in the western Bushveld Igneous Complex. Fe concentrations at the Vaal Triangle were similar to levels thereof at Welgegund, while concentrations of species associated with pyrometallurgical smelting were lower. Annual average Ni was 4 times higher, and annual average As was marginally higher than their respective European standard values, which could be attributed to regional influence of pyrometallurgical industries in the western Bushveld Igneous Complex. All three size fractions indicated elevated trace metal concentrations coinciding with the end of the dry season, which could partially be attributed to decreased wet removal and increases in wind generation of particulates. Principal component factor analysis (PCFA) revealed four meaningful factors in the PM1 size fraction, i.e. crustal, pyrometallurgical-related and Au slimes dams. No meaningful factors were determined for the PM1–2. 5 and PM2. 5–10 size fractions, which was attributed to the large influence of wind-blown dust on atmospheric trace metals determined at Welgegund. Pollution roses confirmed the influence of wind-blown dust on trace metal concentrations measured at Welgegund, while the impact of industrial activities was also substantiated.

Determination of trace and heavy metals in drinking water of Jhal Magsi district of Balochistan, Pakistan

Water is essential component of life. Pure drinking water is a necessity for humans. Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan. In Balochistan river and well water is mainly used for drinking and agriculture purposes. Current study was carried out to determine the concentration of trace and heavy metals in river (surface) and well water of Jhal Magsi district of Balochistan. Ten (10) samples were collected from each, river (surface) and well water. Physicochemicalparameters (PH, Electrical conductivity, Total dissolved solids, Dissolved Oxygen, Turbidity and Color) were determined. Determination of trace and heavy metalsi.e. Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr) and Nickel (Ni) were carried out using Atomic absorption Spectrophotometer. Except 3 samples (RW3, RW5 and WW6), the physicochemicalparameters were within the world health organization (WHO) and environmental protection agency Pakistan (EPA) limits.Concentration of Zn, Fe, Mn and Cuwere below the WHO and EPA limits. Concentration of Pb and Cd were higher than the standards set by WHO and EPA. Cr and Ni were not detected in any samples. Current study is the first study carried out to determine the concentration of trace and heavy metals in drinking water of Jhal Magsi district of Balochistan. Keywords: Heavy metals; Physiochemical parameters; Jhal Magsi; River water; Ground water http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2016.50161