Shugo Chara! 1
Abstract:
Abandoned mines are generally associated with the release of heavy metals into the environment. Through mine water, numerous streams and rivers in Scotland are currently severely polluted with potentially toxic metals. To determine the magnitude of the contamination by Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd in the Glengonnar catchment, along with their spatial variation and potential risk to human health and surface water, sediment and water samples were collected at different locations along a section of the catchment. Heavy metals concentrations were determined by MP – AES and AAS, their spatial variation was observed through SEM – EDS, and the risk assessment was conducted through RISC5 software and Remedial Targets Methodology. Concentrations of metals were higher in sediments (up to 70,668.41 mg/kg Pb, 3,802.48 mg/kg Zn, and 1,078.60 mg/kg Cu) than in water (up to 2,385.16 ?g/L Pb, and 334.52 ?g/L Zn), as a result of the speciation and the adsorption-distribution coefficient of metals, together with the pH of the water. Metals, as free ions and in particulate form, were found to be present at Pb processing and Pb mining areas, respectively. Risk assessment revealed that Pb is the metal of greatest concern and concentrations are prone to harm human health. No detrimental effects to human health were related with concentrations of Zn and Cu in water or sediments. Concentrations of Pb, Zn and Cu in sediments represent a considerable risk to the aquatic environment of the surface water. Consequently, historical legacy of the mining operations at Leadhills means that risk to human health and surface water is present and is likely to continue; reason why adequate mitigation techniques are required in order to decrease pollution and dispersion of heavy metals.
Fuente:
Biblioteca Virtual Banco de la República
Formatos de contenido:
Artículos
