Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Heavy Metals Concentration in The Soil for A Selected Sites in Mosul City

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the concentrations of heavy metals in the soil of Mosul city and analyzed their spatial distribution. A total of 48 soil samples were collected from different sites in the city during the autumn 2022 and spring 2023 from a depth of 0-15 cm. The concentrations of heavy metals, including Cadmium, Zinc, Arsenic, and Nickel, Using an (XRF) device. were measured and their characteristics were chemically and physically analyzed. And comparing the results with the standards set by the (WHO) The results indicated that the soil texture ranged from loam to sandy clay loam, while pH values varied between 7.09 and 7.88. Electrical conductivity ranged from 0.75-4.04 µS/cm, and organic matter content ranged from 1.53%-2.43%.Cadmium levels ranged from 0.08-0.17 ppm and didn't exceed the permissible limits. However, Nickel concentrations ranged from 116.92-188.79 ppm, exceeding the permissible limits in all study areas. A decrease in Nickel concentrations during spring was observed due to rainfall. Zinc concentrations ranged from 102.64-1187 ppm, exceeding the permissible limits in industrial areas. Arsenic levels ranged from 1.12-55.10 ppm, with higher concentrations in spring due to rainfall, reaching its highest concentration in the Kokjli area. Spatial distribution maps indicated that the impact of heavy metal concentrations in the Karameh industrial area had a greater effect on adjacent areas compared to the impact of the Wadi Akab industrial area, which was considered more polluted. These maps also revealed the influence of the eastern part of the city with elevated Nickel concentrations during spring.