Spatial distribution based on optimal interpolation techniques and assessment of contamination risk for toxic metals in the surface soil
The health of our soil environment is fundamental for human well-being and agricultural sustainability. Consequently, there is a growing focus on understanding and addressing environmental issues affecting soils worldwide. This research delves into a local site-specific study conducted in Cerrito Blanco, Matehuala municipality, San Luis Potosi, Mexico, exploring various Geographic Information System (GIS) interpolation techniques, multivariate statistical analysis, and contamination indices to investigate the spatial distribution and contamination risk of toxic metals in surface soil.
Using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-EOS), we analyzed 39 digested surface soil samples for significant toxic metals, including Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Li, and Ni. The results revealed that only the mean value of cadmium (Cd) exceeded permissible standards, raising concerns about potential health and environmental impacts. Subsequently, we evaluated four interpolation techniques and identified Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) as the optimal model for assessing the spatial distribution patterns of toxic metal concentrations in the research area.
Furthermore, the calculated contamination risk indices indicated no significant high contamination risk associated with soil-borne toxic metals in the study area. These findings offer valuable insights into the impact of past mining activities on toxic metal concentrations in non-cultivated surface soil, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to mitigate environmental contamination.
Introduction:
Soil contamination poses significant risks to human health and ecosystem integrity, necessitating comprehensive assessments to understand and address potential hazards. In this study, we focus on Cerrito Blanco, Mexico, where concerns about toxic metal contamination have emerged due to historical mining activities. By employing advanced spatial analysis techniques and contamination indices, we aim to elucidate the spatial distribution and contamination risk of toxic metals in surface soil, providing critical insights for environmental management and remediation efforts.
Methodology:
Our methodology combines laboratory analysis using ICP-EOS to quantify toxic metal concentrations in surface soil samples with GIS-based spatial analysis techniques. Following sample collection and analysis, we apply multivariate statistical analysis to identify correlations and patterns among toxic metals. Subsequently, we employ various GIS interpolation techniques to spatially interpolate metal concentrations across the study area, facilitating the identification of contamination hotspots and spatial distribution patterns.
To assess contamination risk, we calculate contamination indices based on established guidelines and standards, providing a quantitative measure of potential environmental and human health risks associated with soil-borne toxic metals. Through rigorous data analysis and interpretation, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of soil contamination dynamics in the study area.
Results and Discussion:
Our results indicate that while cadmium (Cd) concentrations exceed permissible standards, other toxic metals remain within acceptable limits. The spatial distribution analysis reveals localized hotspots of contamination, particularly in areas with a history of mining activities. However, overall contamination risk levels are deemed low, suggesting limited immediate threats to human health and the environment.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our study underscores the importance of spatial analysis and contamination risk assessment in understanding soil contamination dynamics. By combining laboratory analysis with GIS techniques, we offer valuable insights into the spatial distribution and contamination risk of toxic metals in surface soil. These findings can inform targeted environmental management strategies and guide future research efforts aimed at mitigating soil contamination and safeguarding human health.
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