Heavy Metal Concentrations in Gray Calcareous Soils of Baiyin Region, Gansu Province, P.R. China

Author: Nan Z.   Zhao C.  

Publisher: Springer Publishing Company

ISSN: 0049-6979

Source: Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, Vol.118, Iss.1, 2000-02, pp. : 131-142

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Abstract

Concentrations of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and nickel (Ni) were measured in cultivated gray calcareous soils collected in the two basins of Baiyin urban area. The values revealed fluctuating and enriched Cd, Pb, Cu and Zn concentrations in the cultivated soils, suggesting recent inputs from anthropogenic sources. There also existed differences between these two drainage areas, indicating the characteristics of pollution sources differed. Concentrations of Cd, Pb and to a lesser extent Cu and Zn were higher in this region as compared with the micrometal background values in gray calcareous soil, which may be attributed to the proximity of these soil sites to contaminated streams, or to the utilization of farmyard manure or fertilizers. Comparison of obtained metal concentration levels with other areas in the world revealed elevated values for Cd and Pb, showing a considerable amount of pollution in the area. Continuous monitoring and further studies of the area are recommended to ascertain long-term effect that may have not yet been reached and to prevent pollution of farmland from worsening.

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