Assessing Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) Distribution and Behavior in Soils around an Agro-based Industries (India): Ecological Risk, Environmental and Analytical Inferences

ABSTRACT

The presence of different kinds of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in trace levels is a natural phenomenon, but their enhanced level is a cursor of contamination load in that particular area. In this context a study was undertaken in Raichur industrial development area (IDA), Karnataka, India an area of traditional agricultural-based economy, majorly rice processing industries. The main objectives were firstly, to investigate the occurrence, distribution and behavior of PTEs (As, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) in soils and then assess their source of contamination by means of multivariate statistical tools (correlation analysis, principal factor and cluster analysis). Secondly, to estimate the potential ecological risk index (PERI, RI) and health risk factor in soils. Thirdly, to assess the suitability of modern-advanced versatile instruments, X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and High Resolution Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer’s (HR-ICP-MS) by comparing their results. Soil samples were collected from 17 points around the investigated area and analyzed for their PTE concentrations. Concentrations ranged from 2.90 to 6.80 mg kg⁻¹ for As, 49.9 to 96.6 mg kg⁻¹ for Cr, 19.8 to 46.2 mg kg⁻¹ for Cu, 1.40 to 27.5 mg kg⁻¹ for Ni, 12.2 to 45.8 mg kg⁻¹ for Pb and 77.4 to 128 mg kg⁻¹ for Zn. Though the values reveal a normal distribution, nevertheless until recently due to rapid industrialization and the wastes generated in large quantities especially from agro-based industries, is of environmental importance. These results will provide basic information for the improvement of the soil environment and toxic element pollution prevention and control in the study area.

KEYWORDS:

• Contamination
• PTEs
• factor and cluster analysis
• ecological and health risk indices
• correlation
• XRF/HR-ICP-MS

Correction Statement

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