Multielement Contamination of Land in the Margin of Highways

The spatial distribution of potentially toxic elements in land near a heavily loaded highway in the West Attica region (Greece) is discussed. This study aimed to investigate the extent of soil contamination with trace elements on land in the margin of highways. The concentration of thirty-five elements in topsoil, car ash, and road sediment bulk samples was determined. Statistical and spatial analysis was applied for evaluating the geochemical dispersion of the examined elements. Geo-accumulation index was estimated. Elements content were compared to criteria and screening values established by the literature. The concentration of As, Cu, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, and Zn in topsoil appeared to be influenced by traffic emissions. It is found that engine exhaust, tyre wear, and brake lining contribute to the As, Ba, Cu, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, and Zn content recorded in topsoil in the margin of highways. The bulk sample of road sediment is moderately contaminated to extremely contaminated with Cu, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, and Zn. Comparison of elements content in topsoil with screening values revealed that Al, As, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Sb, V, and Zn pose a potential risk for plants.