Geogenic Distribution of Arsenic (As) and Antimony (Sb) in Soils of the Murcia Region in Spain

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the As and Sb contents in soils from the Murcia Region of Spain and the possible relationship between the mineralogical composition, soil properties, and As and Sb concentrations. In this study, 490 samples were selected from areas with different characteristics in order to study As and Sb variability. Results show that As and Sb concentrations are positively correlated with the phyllosilicate and quartz content but negatively correlated with the calcite content. The generic reference level (GRL) for these elements was determined according to the Spanish legislation. Established GRL values vary according to the established mineralogical groups, suggesting that GRL has to be determined considering the lithological characteristics of the study area.

Keywords:

• antimony (Sb)
• arsenic (As)
• generic reference level
• geogenic values
• soil contamination

Acknowledgment

The authors are grateful to the authorities in charge of the environmental affairs in the Government of Region of Murcia.

Funding

The authors are grateful to Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación for providing funding for this research (Grant No. CTM2008-04567).