ISSN:
1432-0495
Keywords:
Key words Soil
;
Metals
;
Leaching
;
Surface water quality
;
Bangladesh
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract The release of metals during weathering has been studied in order to assess its geochemical controls and possible effects on environmental health in Bangladesh. A total of 27 soil samples and 7 surface water samples were collected from four locations covering three major regions in the country. Results show that weathering effects are a strong function of climatic conditions. Surface waters are typically enriched in Al, Mg, Ca, Na, K, As, Ba, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. The solubility of metal ions, organometallic complexes, co-precipitation or co-existence with the colloidal clay fraction are the main processes that lead to metal enrichment in lake and reservoir water. Aluminium concentrations exceed World Health Organization (WHO) drinking-water standards in all samples, and in two regions, arsenic concentrations also significantly exceed WHO standards. The elevated levels of As indicate that arsenic contamination of water supplies in Bangladesh is not confined to groundwater.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002549900074
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