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Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and...
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Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects

A special issue of Minerals (ISSN 2075-163X). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Mineralogy and Biogeochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2024) | Viewed by 13918

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Yinxian Song

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Land Resource Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, Yunnan Province, China
Interests: geochemical models; soil minerals; source apportionment; bioaccessiblility; health risk assessment; minerals weathering; speciation of heavy metals
Dr. Yubo Wen

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Geographical Science, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
Interests: geochemical background; source identification; migration and transformation; bioavailability
Prof. Dr. Ming Ma

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biogenetics and Anaerobic Microecology, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
Interests: heavy metals; plant restoration; migration and transformation; pollution remediation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Soil and water are among the most important and critical components in the critical zone, determining biodiversity and human life, which are influenced by natural and anthropogenic processes. Heavy metal (HM) pollution in soil and water ecosystem was first recognized in the 1960s. As the main inorganic pollutant, HMs are easily immobilized in soil by different components, such as organic matter, clay minerals and iron oxides, making their removal rather difficult. However, some fractions of HMs could be transported into other environmental  media, food chain and human body by water. Due to differences in the initial status of natural weathering and anthropogenic pollution in soil and water ecosystems, it is challenging to clearly identify the sources, speciation changes and geochemical behaviors of HMs.

Rare earth elements (REEs) usually penetrate into soil and water under the cover of HMs. In addition to high-tech manufacturing sectors and waste dumping, rock weathering or metallurgical process also cause HM and REE pollution. Similar to HMs, REEs can be activated in soil and water, thereby altering different conditions such as temperature, pH, and redox changes. Moreover, REEs could have specific characteristics under natural redox condition changes and absorption fractionation by minerals, and during municipal and mining waste discharge. Therefore, their synergic response to pollution sources and geochemical processes in soil and water could provide new insights into inorganic pollution and environmental loads in soil and water.

This Special Issue welcomes contributions related to HM and REE distribution and speciation, pollution monitoring, source identification, health risk assessment, management and mitigations, aimed at preventing HM and REE pollution in water and soil.

Dr. Yinxian Song
Dr. Yubo Wen
Prof. Dr. Ming Ma
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • HM and REE pollution
  • soil and water ecosystem
  • health risk assessment
  • environmental loads
  • speciation distribution
  • modelling of pollutant transportation
  • geochemical background
  • weathering and soil-water interaction
  • municipal and mining waste
  • remediation technique

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 10582 KiB  
Article
Geochemical Signature and Risk Assessment of Potential Toxic Elements in Intensively Cultivated Soils of South-West Punjab, India
by Umakant Chaudhari, Disha Kumari, Tanishka Tyagi, Sunil Mittal and Prafulla Kumar Sahoo
Minerals 2024, 14(6), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14060576 - 30 May 2024
Viewed by 696
Abstract
Soil contamination with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the Malwa region belt of Punjab, India, can be a serious concern as a result of intensive agricultural practices and overuse of agrochemicals. The main objectives of the present study were to evaluate the spatial [...] Read more.
Soil contamination with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the Malwa region belt of Punjab, India, can be a serious concern as a result of intensive agricultural practices and overuse of agrochemicals. The main objectives of the present study were to evaluate the spatial distribution, geochemical signature, and contamination level/health risk of PTEs in 76 soil samples (0–10 cm) collected from the three districts viz. Muktar, Faridkot, and Moga of Punjab, India. The result shows that PTEs concentrations vary widely in the region, with Fe and Mn distribution patterns being mostly coherent with each other. When compared to the Indian natural soil background values, the average concentration of Pb and Zn were higher than the limit, only Pb exceeded the average values of the world background and upper continental crust (UCC). Spatial autocorrelation plotted with a local indicator of spatial association (LISA) in GeoDa software version 1.18 was used to identify hotspots. A positive spatial autocorrelation (>0.2) was indicated with Moran’s I values for Pb, V, Mn, Cu, and Cr, being highest for Pb. A principal component analysis (PCA) identified the major geo-chemical patterns of Fe-Al-V-Cr and TOC-Mn-Zn-HCO3−, which were positively loaded on PC1. This indicates that Fe/Al-oxyhydroxides and organic matter play a dominant role in controlling metal mobility in soils. This can be further substantiated with the Spearman’s rank correlation values. The contamination factor (CF) indicates that only Pb and Zn (15.7% and 3.9% samples, respectively) were under high risk. This could be due to the excessive application of chemical fertilizers. The large range of degree of contamination (Cdeg) values suggests that there are variations in the degree of soil pollution due to PTEs. A little over 3.9% of samples had significant contamination, compared to 72.3% of samples with low contamination and 23.6% of samples with moderate contamination. Human non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk levels were investigated. The hazard index (HI) values for adult ranged from 0.00 to 0.2, and values for children ranged from 0.009 to 1.2. These findings suggest that both children and adults are not at potential risk, except in a few locations. Overall, the results of this study provide the current baseline status of toxic elements in agricultural soil. This would be helpful for developing strategies for sustainable management of the soil resources in the region, as well as for future monitoring programs of the soil quality in the Malwa region as a whole, to track any changes in the contamination levels over time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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21 pages, 9899 KiB  
Article
Multi-Elemental Characterization of Soils in the Vicinity of Siderurgical Industry: Levels, Depth Migration and Toxic Risk
by Antoaneta Ene, Florin Sloată, Marina V. Frontasyeva, Octavian G. Duliu, Alina Sion, Steluta Gosav and Diana Persa
Minerals 2024, 14(6), 559; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14060559 - 29 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 878
Abstract
The assessment of soil contamination in the vicinity of integrated siderurgical plants is of outmost importance for agroecosystems and human health, and sensitive techniques should be employed for accurate assessment of chemical elements (metals, potential toxic elements, rare earths, radioelements) in soil and [...] Read more.
The assessment of soil contamination in the vicinity of integrated siderurgical plants is of outmost importance for agroecosystems and human health, and sensitive techniques should be employed for accurate assessment of chemical elements (metals, potential toxic elements, rare earths, radioelements) in soil and further evaluation of potential ecological and safety risk. In this paper a total of 45 major, minor and trace elements (Al, As, Au, Ba, Br, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Eu, Fe, Hf, Hg, I, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nd, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sc, Sm, Sn, Sr, Ta, Tb, Th, Ti, Tm, U, V, W, Y, Yb, Zn and Zr) were quantified in soils located around a large siderurgical works (Galati, SE Romania) using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) in combination with X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP–MS). The statistical analysis results and vertical distribution patterns for three depths (0–5 cm, 5–20 cm, 20–30 cm) indicate inputs of toxic elements in the sites close to the ironmaking and steelmaking facilities and industrial wastes dumping site. For selected elements, a comparison with historical, legislated and world reported concentration values in soil was performed and depth migration, contamination and toxic risk indices were assessed. The distribution of major, rock forming elements was closer to the Upper Continental Crust (UCC), and to the Dobrogea loess, a finding confirmed by the ternary diagram of the incompatible trace elements Sc, La and Th, as well as by the La to Th rate. At the same time, the La/Th vs. Sc and Th/Sc vs. Zr/Sc bi-plots suggested a felsic origin and a weak recycling of soils’ mineral components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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13 pages, 3749 KiB  
Article
Source Analysis and Bioavailability of Soil Cadmium in Poyang Lake Plain of China Based on Principal Component Analysis and Positive Definite Matrix Factor
by Bangyong Wen, Hongyu Jiang, Yuan Gao, Qiangqiang Zhou and Haiman Qie
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050514 - 15 May 2024
Viewed by 751
Abstract
In order to identify the source and bioavailability of soil Cd in the alluvial geological high background area, 3799 topsoil samples and 140 root soil samples were collected from the Jiulong area on the south bank of Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province. The results [...] Read more.
In order to identify the source and bioavailability of soil Cd in the alluvial geological high background area, 3799 topsoil samples and 140 root soil samples were collected from the Jiulong area on the south bank of Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province. The results confidently indicate that the range of topsoil Cd content is 0.02~8.12 ppm, with an exceedance rate of 14.6%. It is noteworthy that exceedance points were mostly distributed in quaternary sediments. The geostatistical analysis clearly shows that the spatial distribution characteristic of topsoil Cd is higher in the north and lower in the south. The area with extremely high values (>90% quantile) is predominantly located in the tidal flat and low-lying areas of the mainstream of the Xinjiang River. The PCA analysis confirms that the main source of topsoil Cd is man-made activities related to industry and mining. Soil Cd is primarily derived from upstream industrial and mining discharge (58.5%), as revealed by the PMF model analysis. The active Cd content in root soil is 77 ppb, with higher levels observed in the north and lower levels in the south. These findings suggest a significant risk of Cd diffusion along the upstream stream and deposition in the low-lying parts of the north. It is worth noting that Cd’s bioavailability and active forms in paddy fields are the highest, which can have a detrimental effect on food security. The correlation analysis suggests that genetic sources primarily control the bioavailability of soil Cd, followed by soil physicochemical properties such as SOC, Fe-Al oxides, and soil texture. Preventing source pollution and cutting off water system transmission are effective methods for preventing and controlling soil Cd pollution. These methods ensure the safety of cultivated land in the lakeside area of Poyang Lake Plain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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18 pages, 6167 KiB  
Article
Source and Migration Pathways of Heavy Metals in Soils from an Iron Mine in Baotou City, China
by Changyu Wang, Danhong Xu, Yongli Li, Wenhui Zhou, Peng Bian and Siyuan Zhang
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050506 - 12 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1339
Abstract
The exploitation of iron ore could cause heavy metals pollution in the soils, which threatens the ecosystem and human health. In this study, soil, stream sediment, tailings, rock, and atmospheric deposition samples were collected from an iron mine in Baotou City. The concentrations [...] Read more.
The exploitation of iron ore could cause heavy metals pollution in the soils, which threatens the ecosystem and human health. In this study, soil, stream sediment, tailings, rock, and atmospheric deposition samples were collected from an iron mine in Baotou City. The concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn, Al2O3, CaO, K2O, MgO, Na2O, SiO2, and Fe2O3, as well as the mineral composition and heavy metal speciation of the samples, were analyzed for pollution assessment and source identification of heavy metals. The results reveal that the concentration of Cu in the soils was significantly higher than the background value, and an unpolluted to moderately polluted state was the main pollution level. By analyzing the relationship between Cu/Al2O3 and CaO in different samples, as well as the characteristics of the chemical index of alteration (CIA), mineral composition, and the chemical speciation of Cu in soils and profiles, the results suggest that tailings were the source of Cu pollution in soils. The distribution characteristics of Cu and CaO in stream sediments indicated that hydraulic transport may be one of the main migration pathways. In addition, wind transport may also be a pathway of migration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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17 pages, 7335 KiB  
Article
Influencing Factors, Risk Assessment, and Source Identification of Heavy Metals in Purple Soil in the Eastern Region of Guang’an City, Sichuan Province, China
by Yuxiang Shao, Wenbin Chen, Jian Li, Buqing Yan, Haiyun He and Yunshan Zhang
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050495 - 7 May 2024
Viewed by 1075
Abstract
Soil heavy metal contamination poses a significant threat to both environmental health and ecological safety. To investigate the influencing factors, ecological hazards, and sources analysis of heavy metals in purple soil, 27 sets of soil samples were collected from varying genetic horizons within [...] Read more.
Soil heavy metal contamination poses a significant threat to both environmental health and ecological safety. To investigate the influencing factors, ecological hazards, and sources analysis of heavy metals in purple soil, 27 sets of soil samples were collected from varying genetic horizons within Guang’an City, and the contents of As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn were analyzed. The results indicated higher concentrations of heavy metals in soil A horizon, compared to that of C horizon. The relevance analysis indicated that the soil’s heavy metals were strongly correlated with the soil’s physicochemical properties. The enrichment factor, pollution load index, and potential risk index highlighted slightly to severely polluted levels of soil Cd and Hg, which significantly contribute to the ecological hazards posed by soil heavy metals. The potential source of heavy metals analyzed using the APCS-MLR model identified both anthropogenic inputs and natural sources as primary contributors to heavy metal presence in soils. The Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn contents in the samples from different genetic horizons were chiefly influenced by natural sources, such as soil matrix erosion and weathering, while the concentrations of Cd and Hg were largely affected by anthropogenic activities, specifically coal combustion and agriculture. Conversely, the As content was found to be influenced by a combination of both factors. Anthropogenic activities greatly impacted soil heavy metals at various depths within the study area, thereby underscoring the importance of monitoring these heavy metals. The findings gained from this research can give a scientific basis for the potential utilization of purple soil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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17 pages, 5612 KiB  
Article
Potentially Harmful Elements (As, Sb, Cd, Pb) in Soil Polluted by Historical Smelting Operation in the Upper Silesian Area (Southern Poland)
by Weronika Nadłonek, Jerzy Cabała and Krzysztof Szopa
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050475 - 29 Apr 2024
Viewed by 893
Abstract
This study aimed at determining the concentration and possibility of migration of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) in soils and mining and metallurgical waste in the Silesian-Cracow region. Our research was carried out in selected locations of Ruda Śląska, Świętochłowice, Bytom, and in the [...] Read more.
This study aimed at determining the concentration and possibility of migration of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) in soils and mining and metallurgical waste in the Silesian-Cracow region. Our research was carried out in selected locations of Ruda Śląska, Świętochłowice, Bytom, and in the Olkusz region (Bukowno) in southern Poland. The concentrations of metals (e.g., Ag, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb, Sr, Zn), metalloids (As, Sb), and sulphur were determined in 33 soil samples (with a depth range of 0.0–0.3 m) and 12 slag samples. These studies show an increased concentration of metals, metalloids, and sulphur, exceeding the level of regional geochemical background. The research results indicate that the degree of the chemical transformation of soils in the analysed regions of Ruda Śląska, Bytom, and Bukowno is advanced. This highlights the high concentrations of most metals, i.e., arsenic, antimony, and sulphur, in the surface layer of soils (topsoil) due to historic Zn-Pb ore mining and Zn and Fe metallurgy. The presence of both primary and secondary metal sulphides, sulphates, carbonates, oxides/hydroxides, silicates, and aluminosilicates was found in the mineral composition of soils and slags. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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16 pages, 4349 KiB  
Article
Enrichment Characteristics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in a Farmland System with High Geochemical Background in the Black Shale Region of Zhejiang, China
by Chao Wu, Binbin Sun, Mi Tian, Xiaomeng Cheng, Dong Liu and Yining Zhou
Minerals 2024, 14(4), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14040375 - 2 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1166
Abstract
Soils derived from black shale enriched in heavy metals pose risks to the environment and human health. Eighty sets of soil–rice samples were collected in northwest Zhejiang, China. The results showed significant enrichment of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn in the studied soil. [...] Read more.
Soils derived from black shale enriched in heavy metals pose risks to the environment and human health. Eighty sets of soil–rice samples were collected in northwest Zhejiang, China. The results showed significant enrichment of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn in the studied soil. Sequential extraction data indicated that Cd had relatively high bioavailability. Thirty-four percent of the rice samples exceeded the heavy metal pollution thresholds of national food safety standards. A comprehensive evaluation of soil heavy metals using the potential ecological risk index (RI) revealed low-to-moderate-grade risk. Risk assessment code (RAC) levels decreased as follows: Cd > Ni > Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > As > Hg. The RAC of Cd was high and very high risk, whereas those of others were no or low risk. Cd was the major contributor to the environmental risk based on the total heavy metal concentration, toxicity, and chemical fractions. The health risk to the local populace was assessed using the method recommended by the USEPA. Local people may experience both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks, and children face greater health risks than adults. As, Cd, and Pb are the most significant contributors to non-carcinogenic health risks, and Cd is the main carcinogenic risk. In conclusion, special attention should be given to heavy metal pollution in black shale-derived soils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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17 pages, 8426 KiB  
Article
Source Analysis and Contribution Estimation of Heavy Metal Contamination in Agricultural Soils in an Industrial Town in the Yangtze River Delta, China
by Chao Qi, Mingzuan Xu, Jiandong Liu, Chuang Li, Binbin Yang, Zhipeng Jin, Shengyue Liang and Bingyue Guo
Minerals 2024, 14(3), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14030279 - 7 Mar 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1677
Abstract
Farmland soil quality is a crucial determinant for agricultural productivity, food safety, and human well-being. Among the various contaminants, heavy metals have emerged as pervasive factors significantly impacting farmland quality, attracting widespread societal concern. In this study, we systematically applied multivariate statistical analysis, [...] Read more.
Farmland soil quality is a crucial determinant for agricultural productivity, food safety, and human well-being. Among the various contaminants, heavy metals have emerged as pervasive factors significantly impacting farmland quality, attracting widespread societal concern. In this study, we systematically applied multivariate statistical analysis, geostatistical methods, and the positive matrix factorization (PMF) source apportionment technique to elucidate the sources and contributions of eight heavy metals (Cd, Hg, As, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni) in farmland soils within an industrialized town. Our findings reveal that Cd, Hg, Pb, and Zn exhibit pollution or enrichment in farmland soils compared to natural background levels, with Hg and Cd surpassing 164.3% and 50.2%, respectively. Notably, Zn demonstrates discernible point-source pollution. Source apportionment results highlight industrial point sources, coal combustion, and agriculture as the primary anthropogenic contributors to heavy metal contamination, with zinc-plating enterprises being the predominant industrial point sources. Addressing the specific issue of point-source pollution from Zn in industrial activities, further analysis establishes a correlation between soil Zn content and the distance from zinc-plating enterprises. Utilizing an atmospheric transport model, we observe that the impact of industrial activities on soil Zn is limited when the distance exceeds 1.5 km, emphasizing the importance of monitoring Zn pollution within areas less than 1.5 km. This study pioneers a progressive source apportionment approach, considering the origins of different heavy metals, pollution levels, distance factors, and the cost-effectiveness of environmental measures. The insights gained provide scientifically sound strategies for future decision making in environmental protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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17 pages, 3005 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Heavy Metal(loid) Pollution and Human Health Risks Associated with a Mineral (Zn, Cu, and Sn Ores) Processing Plant in Yunnan, Southwest China
by Wenping Luo, Yan Zhang, Pingtang Wei and Chengshuai Sun
Minerals 2024, 14(3), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14030253 - 28 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1132
Abstract
Understanding the contamination and sources of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) at historical sites is vital for safeguarding human health and the ecological environment. This study focused on As, Hg, Cd, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Cr concentrations in the residual soil, groundwater, and surface water [...] Read more.
Understanding the contamination and sources of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) at historical sites is vital for safeguarding human health and the ecological environment. This study focused on As, Hg, Cd, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Cr concentrations in the residual soil, groundwater, and surface water around a mineral processing plant. The sources of these elements and the human health risks posed by them were evaluated using various indexes. Soil HM concentrations exceeded background values for Yunnan Province, ranked as As > Pb > Cd > Cu > Hg > Ni. The river water met China’s Class II waterbody standard; however, Cd, Cu, Pb, and pH exceeded the maximum permissible sewage discharge concentrations in the accumulated water. The groundwater showed severe HM pollution, meeting China’s Class III water quality standard. The average value of the Nemerow pollution index was consistent with that of the single-factor pollution index in the following order: As > Pb > Cd > Ni > Cu > Hg. Children face heightened risk through the oral ingestion of As, Cd, and Pb, particularly in high-value sampling points in the residue deposit area. The main sources of these pollutants are anthropogenic activities and the soil formation matrix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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15 pages, 3515 KiB  
Article
Distribution of Heavy Metals in Surface Sediments of a Tropical Mangrove Wetlands in Hainan, China, and Their Biological Effectiveness
by Gucheng Zhang, Shenghong Chen, Ruiling Long, Bo Ma, Yu Chang and Changping Mao
Minerals 2023, 13(12), 1476; https://doi.org/10.3390/min13121476 - 23 Nov 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1212
Abstract
The distribution and ecological risk of heavy metals in sediments were studied through the systematic collection and analysis of mangrove wetland sediments in Dongzhai Harbor, Hainan. The main insights obtained were as follows: (1) The distribution characteristics and influencing factors of heavy metals [...] Read more.
The distribution and ecological risk of heavy metals in sediments were studied through the systematic collection and analysis of mangrove wetland sediments in Dongzhai Harbor, Hainan. The main insights obtained were as follows: (1) The distribution characteristics and influencing factors of heavy metals in wetland sediments were analyzed by using the inverse-distance weight interpolation method. In terms of spatial distribution, the contents of heavy metals As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, Ti, and Zn in the western part of the wetland were significantly higher than in the eastern part. The contents of heavy metals Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Zn, and Ti near the anthropogenic area were significantly higher than at other points. (2) The pollution sources and ecological risks of heavy metals in wetland sediments were explored by using correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and potential ecological risk index analysis. The results showed that As, Ba, Pb, and Sr mainly originated from natural processes; Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Ti, and Zn mainly originated from industry; and agricultural heavy metals mainly originated from Cd and Hg. The ecological risk analysis showed that there were obvious ecological risks of heavy metals in the western and southeastern corners of the wetland, which were both located in the vicinity of land far away from the coastline and near the human activities, and featured mangrove forests with dense vegetation characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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Review

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17 pages, 1020 KiB  
Review
A Review on the Removal of Heavy Metals from Water by Phosphorus-Enriched Biochar
by Yang Zeng, Yuhan Lin, Ming Ma and Hong Chen
Minerals 2024, 14(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14010061 - 4 Jan 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1983
Abstract
In recent years, the utilization of phosphorus-enriched biochar (PBC) has attracted significant attention due to its exceptional stability and surface reactivity. This review systematically summarizes the advancements in research related to the application of PBC as an adsorbent for remediating water contaminated with [...] Read more.
In recent years, the utilization of phosphorus-enriched biochar (PBC) has attracted significant attention due to its exceptional stability and surface reactivity. This review systematically summarizes the advancements in research related to the application of PBC as an adsorbent for remediating water contaminated with heavy metals. Initially, the precursors utilized in the production of PBC, encompassing biomass and phosphorus sources, are introduced. Subsequently, the distinct physicochemical properties and adsorption characteristics resulting from phosphorus doping on the biochar surface through various carbonization processes and parameters are elucidated. Additionally, the diverse adsorption mechanisms employed by PBC in removing heavy metals from water are analyzed. Lastly, future research prospects and associated challenges concerning PBC are presented. This paper aims to furnish comprehensive background information for the practical implementation of PBC in the purification of heavy metal-contaminated water environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal and Rare Earth Element Pollution in Soil and Water: Sources, Geochemical Behaviors and Ecological Effects)
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