UNIVERSITY OF BUCHAREST
FACULTY OF PHYSICS

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2024-11-22 1:20

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Conference: Bucharest University Faculty of Physics 2024 Meeting


Section: Physics and Technology of Renewable and Alternative Energy Sources


Title:
ICP-OES analysis of heavy metals in diverse soil environments: A comparative study across agricultural, industrial, and recreational areas


Authors:
Daniel DEACU, Cornelia DIAC, Sanda VOINEA


Affiliation:
University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics, 405 Atomiștilor str., PO Box MG-38, Bucharest-Măgurele, Romania


E-mail
cornelia.diac@3nanosae.org


Keywords:
soil contamination, heavy metals, ICP-OES


Abstract:
Soil contamination with heavy metals is a major environmental problem that affects the health of ecosystems and human populations. Sources of pollution include industrial activities, intensive agriculture, and improper waste management. Consequently, soil analysis for the determination of heavy metal concentrations, such as cadmium, lead, cobalt, and arsenic, is essential for assessing the impact of human activities on the environment and implementing effective remediation and protection measures. This study investigates the levels of these metals in soils from four distinct areas: agricultural land, a wastewater treatment plant, an industrial zone, and a park. Soil samples were systematically collected from each area and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), a precise and sensitive method for detecting heavy metals. In the agricultural area, potential contamination sources include the use of pesticides and fertilizers. Soils near the wastewater treatment plant are susceptible to contamination from residual sludge used in soil amelioration. The industrial zone reflects historical and current pollution generated by industrial processes, while soil in the park, intended for recreation, may be affected by atmospheric sources and traffic. This analysis highlights the importance of continuous soil monitoring, especially in areas susceptible to pollution. Identifying and accurately quantifying heavy metals through ICP-OES provides essential data for implementing effective environmental remediation and protection measures. The study contributes to understanding the distribution of heavy metals in soils and the impact of various pollution sources, offering a solid foundation for environmental policies and more sustainable agricultural practices.