Analysis and Distribution of Lead, Cadmium, Molybdenum and Aluminum Contamination in Surface Waters around the Copper Mine

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate distribution patterns of Lead (Pb), Aluminum (Al), Molybdenum (Mo), and Cadmium (Cd) along the Shoor River and determine sources and the degree of pollution in wet and dry seasons. Metal concentrations in water samples were extracted by cloud point extraction method and determined by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Based on the results, the highest concentration was found on the dam (Mo: 2.5, Al: 0.90, Cd: 1.00 and Pb: 0.77 mg/L) and before dam (Mo: 1.10, Al: 0.78, Cd: 0.82 and Pb: 0.8 mg/L), subsequently. But metal concentration significantly decreased in the water after the dam (Mo: 1.00, Al: 0.77, Cd: 0.35, and Pb: 0.42 mg/L). According to the results, cadmium and lead in the copper mine were maximum and will diminish by keeping distance from the mine. Mean comparison of all water samples in both wet and dry seasons showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between Lead and Molybdenum concentration in two seasons, but there was no difference between the Aluminum content and Cadmium in dry and wet seasons. Metal concentration, was enhanced by decreases in pH Comparison the concentration of heavy metal with WHO’ standards indicates that Molybdenum (1.10mg/L), and Cadmium (0.52mg/L) concentration is higher than standards.