Lead Contamination of Urban Soils and Vegetation by Emissions from Secondary Lead Industries

Abstract

The degree and extent of lead contamination of urban soils and vegetation in the vicinity of secondary lead industries are provided. These urban industries, a secondary smelter reprocessing lead from used batteries and scrap metal and a manufacturer of new storage batteries, were located near residential communities. Levels as high as 21,000 ppm of lead in the upper 5 cm of soil (based on air dried weight) and 3500 and 2700 ppm in willow foliage (not washed and washed, respectively, based on dry weight) were found adjacent to the secondary smelter, with the levels decreasing exponentially from the sources. The data on lead contamination of soils and vegetation at various distances and directions from the urban secondary lead industries were compared with levels of lead found in control urban and highway locations. In addition, arsenic levels in soil were examined as a tracer for the source of industrial lead emissions. High levels of lead found In both vegetation and soil in the vicinity of the urban industries reflected both historical and current emissions of lead in those areas. These studies were conducted for industrial abatement purposes; to assist medical related epidemiology studies; to define the areas of severe contamination for soil cleanup purposes; and to formulate guidelines for excessive levels of lead in soil and vegetation. Since lead in soil is persistent, concern arises with respect to pica for small children, contamination of edible vegetables grown in high-lead soil, and reentrainment of leaded particulate matter into the air.