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1

Pierwiastkowe odciski palców alkoholi : bezpieczeństwo, jakość i weryfikacja autentyczności

Gajek Magdalena, Pawlaczyk Aleksandra, Szynkowska-Jóźwik Małgorzata Iwona

Wiadomości Chemiczne

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2025

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[Z] 79, 11-12

1149--1168

EN

Elemental analysis of alcoholic beverages provides valuable insights into their safety, quality and authenticity. The elemental profile of wines, beers, ciders and whisky is shaped by raw materials, environmental conditions, technological processes and interactions with equipment or packaging. Particular attention is paid to toxic elements such as Pb, Cd, As, and Hg, as well as Cu, Zn, and Fe, which are essential but may adversely affect the quality when present in excess. Analytical strategies rely on spectrometric techniques, including FAAS, GF-AAS, ICP-OES, and ICP-MS, complemented by XRF and SEM-EDS for specific applications. These methods, combined with chemometric tools, such as PCA, LDA, or PLS-DA, enable discrimination of beverages by origin, type and production technology, and support the detection of adulteration. Regulatory frameworks established by OIV, WHO and national authorities define maximum allowable concentrations of selected elements, although gaps remain for some beverage categories. Overall, the integration of advanced analytical techniques with multivariate data analysis provides a robust framework for ensuring consumer safety, verifying authenticity and supporting the development of alcoholic beverages with consistent quality.

2

Metale ciężkie w wyrobach skórzanych i włókienniczych. Normatywy i znormalizowane procedury oznaczania metali

Świetlik Ryszard

Przegląd Włókienniczy - Włókno, Odzież, Skóra

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2025

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nr 1

29--38

PL

Dla ochrony konsumentów przed ekspozycją na metale ciężkie obecne w wyrobach tekstylnych i skórzanych wprowadzono szereg regulacji prawnych. W prestiżowych eko-certyfikatach zostały określone progowe zawartości przynajmniej najbardziej toksycznych metali ciężkich (As, Cd, Hg i Pb). Jednakże nawet najlepiej sformułowane regulacje prawne nie mogą zapewnić pełnej ochrony użytkowników tych artykułów. Niezbędna jest kontrola analityczna, dysponująca zestawem dobrze opracowanych i zwalidowanych procedur analitycznych wykorzystujących współczesne techniki instrumentalne. Takie warunki spełniają procedury analityczne ujęte w normach, najlepiej międzynarodowych lub europejskich (ISO i EN). W tej pracy omówiono procedury analityczne opisane w normach ISO oraz EN i wdrożonych do zbioru Polskich Norm. Aby przybliżyć czytelnikom tę tematykę, omówienie norm badań poprzedzono krótką charakterystyką wykorzystywanych technik instrumentalnych. Zaprezentowane postępowania analityczne umożliwiają oznaczanie całkowitej zawartości metali ciężkich oraz oznaczanie ich frakcji biodostępnej.

EN

To protect consumers from exposure to heavy metals present in textile and leather products, many legal regulations have been introduced. Prestigious eco-certificates specify the threshold levels for at least the most toxic heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg and Pb). However, even the best-formulated legal regulations cannot provide full protection for users of these articles. Analytical control with a set of well-developed and validated analytical procedures using modern instrumental techniques is essential. Such conditions are met by standardized analytical procedures preferably published in ISO and EN standards. This paper discusses analytical procedures described in ISO and EN standards and implemented in the set of Polish Standards. To better familiarize readers with this topic, the discussion was preceded by a brief description of the instrumental techniques used. The presented analytical procedures make it possible to determine the total content of heavy metals and their bioaccessible fraction.

3

Potentially toxic elements contamination and ecological risk assessment in water and surface sediments of Bistrica River

Demaku Skender, Kastrati Tringa

Journal of Water and Land Development

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2025

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no. 64

12--20

EN

This research evaluates the quality of water and surface sediment in the Bistrica River, addressing the growing environmental challenges in Kosovo caused by extensive human activities. Contamination of these resources poses significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. To assess this, we analysed the levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the samples using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The elements examined included As, Cd, Fe, Pb, Ni, Mn, Cu, Zn, Al, and Co. Samples were collected from various sites along the Bistrica River during both high-flow and low-flow seasons in October 2023. The degree of PTE contamination was assessed using several pollution indices (contamination factor (CF), contamination degree (CD), pollution load index (PLI), enrichment factor (EF), geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and ecological risk index (ERI)), indicating that water exhibit low to moderate levels of pollution (World Health Organization (WHO) standards), while in sediment the pollution is extremely low (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards). Results revealed that pollution, in water samples, for some elements, such as Fe, Pb and Ni, exceeded the guidelines by the WHO, while other elements, such as Co, Al, Cu, Mn, Zn, As and Cd, are below the permitted limits according to the WHO standards. Additionally, statistical analysis and contamination clusters, primarily originating from agricultural fields and grazing areas within the catchment. To reduce these risks and safeguard both the aquatic ecosystem and human health, it is crucial to maintain regular monitoring and enforce effective management strategies.

4

Characterisation of galvanisation effluent using lime-anionic polyacrylamide : A case study from Gauteng, South Africa

Chauke Tebogo M.D., Monapathi Mzimkhulu E., Mashifana Tebogo, Modise Johannes S., Okoli Bamidele J.

Journal of Water and Land Development

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2025

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no. 64

63--71

EN

Galvanisation, a critical industrial process for rust prevention, generates effluents containing heavy metals and other pollutants, posing environmental and health risks. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a combined limeanionic polyacrylamide (PAM) treatment to reduce these contaminants from effluent generated by the galvanising industry in Gauteng, South Africa. Effluent samples were collected and analysed for heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Fe) and physicochemical parameters, including electrical conductivity, chloride, and pH, using standard methods. Untreated effluent exhibited high levels of heavy metals, particularly lead, zinc, manganese, and iron, far exceeding local discharge limits. Post-treatment analysis showed substantial reductions in metal concentrations, achieving compliance with regulatory standards, with pH-adjusted to optimal levels for metal hydroxide precipitation. Additionally, chloride concentrations were reduced from 14,383.24 mg∙dm-3 to 3,890.40 mg∙dm-3 and electrical conductivity from 130.50 to 21.10 μS∙cm-1. Despite these improvements, the values still exceeded the municipality’s discharge limits of 500 mg∙dm-3 for chloride and 0.1 μS∙cm-1 for conductivity, indicating residual high ion concentrations. While the lime-PAM treatment effectively improved effluent quality, the results suggest a need for supplementary treatments to achieve full compliance with stringent regulatory standards. Overall, the lime-PAM approach shows potential for reducing heavy metals and physicochemical contaminants reduction in galvanising effluent. However, further optimisation and integration of advanced treatment technologies are recommended to enhance efficacy and ensure environmental compliance.

5

The effect of anthropogenic activities on soil quality (Shafa Badran watercourse) in the Al Zarqa River Basin

Ahmad Omar Asad

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 3

108--118

EN

The intensive urbanization of terrestrial environments and increased industrial activity significantly contribute to the accumulation of hazardous metals in soil, thereby heightening toxicological risks to soils ecosystems and human health. This study analyzed twenty-two soil samples collected from the Shafa Badran Watercourse within the Zarqa River basin to evaluate the presence and distribution of ten key hazardous metals, namely arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), vanadium (V), lithium (Li), and antimony (Sb). Additionally, anions and cations were assessed to understand broader soil chemistry dynamics. The study explores the hypothesis that land use, particularly the transformation of soil for agricultural purposes industrial use and residential significantly influences soil composition and contamination levels. Findings indicate that soil degradation in the region is primarily driven by industrial pressure and agricultural use, which has exacerbated metal accumulation in the environment. The results revealed that the highest concentrations of As, Pb and Cd, were detected in areas within and surrounding the Zarqa River Basin. Notably, the most polluted regions were identified as active zones adjacent to industrial activities and agricultural lands. The analysis highlights that soil in these areas poses substantial environmental pollution risks, particularly for the elements in the following descending order of concentration: As > Pb > Cd; meanwhile other metals still with acceptable range. Moreover, the hazardous metal content in soils near industrial zones was significantly higher compared to other land-use types, underscoring a pronounced risk of metal migration and accumulation within the Zarqa River basin and its associated groundwater systems. These findings emphasize the urgent need for effective land-use management strategies and industrial pollution mitigation measures to safeguard both environmental and public health in the region.

6

Specificities of considering migration capability of heavy metals in assessing ecological hazard of polluting soils of urban ecosystems

Yakovyshyna Tetiana, Nester Anatoliy, Pashechko Mykhaylo, Kalda Galyna, Sokolan Juliia, Piegdoń Izabela

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 4

37--44

EN

Necessity of assessing how badly are soils of urban ecosystems polluted by heavy metals has been motivated by the growth of technogenic load and awareness of the hazard level. The study aimed to identify and justify the use of an indicator to assess the actual environmental risks of soil contamination with heavy metals in urban ecosystems. This indicator eliminates the influence of soil buffering capacity on metal fixation and considers the migration potential under specific conditions of spatial pollution distribution. The studies were conducted within the urban ecosystem of Dnipro city (Ukraine) – a powerful center of metallurgy, machine-building, metal-processing industries, and rocket-space construction. In this work, the gross content and mobile forms of the following five heavy metals were studied: Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, and Ni. The assessment of pollution intensity was carried out using the Nemerov pollution index (NPI) for the gross content and mobile forms in order to reveal the level of ecological hazard caused by the growth of heavy metals in soil. It was ascertained that by the level of ecological hazard, the pollution intensity of heavy metals in soils of the urban ecosystem of Dnipro city can be represented as the following inequality sequence: Zn ˃ Pb = Cu ˃ Cd ˃ Ni. The migration capability of heavy metals is conditioned by an increment of their gross content, whereas the city soil is losing its buffer property. A tendency of the NPI growth is revealed within the gross content to potentially mobile forms as a result of considering the migration capability of heavy metals. The NPI application efficiency is substantiated to take into account specificities of how urban ecosystems are formed and function, including variety and spatial propagation of pollution by heavy metals, as well as their migration capability.

7

Heavy metals distribution in water and soil of the coastal zone of the Styr River (Ukraine) and its tributaries

Skrobala Victor, Popovych Vasyl, Kopylov Victor, Kopystynskyi Yurii

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 2

1--14

EN

Investigation of the peculiarities of chemical contamination of water and soil in the coastal zone of the river Styr and its tributaries in relation to the distance from the source of pollution and the type of landscape, analysis of the general trends in the distribution of chemical elements in comparison with the control site. Statistical processing of parameters of chemical contamination of water and soil; data mining methods; correlation analysis; assessment of ecotope similarity and grouping of chemical elements based on cluster analysis; multidimensional ordination of ecotopes in the space of geochemical parameters based on Principal Component Analysis. Chemical contamination of water and soil in the coastal zone of the Styr River and its tributaries is characterised by significant heterogeneity. The main feature of the increasing intensity of anthropogenic load on the aquatic environment is associated with an increase of Cu, Zn, Pb, Mn content compared to the natural background. The intensity of soil pollution in the coastal zone of the Styr River and its tributaries mainly depends on the presence of Cu, Cd and Ni. The analysis of the relationship between chemical elements concentrations indicates a strong dependence between many parameters. Based on the similarity of chemical elements in terms of their distribution in the water of the river Styr and its tributaries, 4 associations (groups) were identified: I – Cu, Mn; II – Zn, Pb; III – Cd, Cr, Sr; IV – Co, Ni. For the soils in the coastal zone, 3 associations (groups) of chemical elements were identified: I – Cu, Cd; II – Zn, Mn; III – Cr, Co, Ni, Pb. Three groups of sites of the Styr River and its tributaries were identified according to the pollution rate of water and soils of the coastal zone with heavy metals. The multidimensional ordination of the ecotopes of the Styr River and its tributaries on the axes of complex geochemical environmental gradients reflects the gradients of water and soil pollution in the coastal zone compared to the control areas. Geochemical information visualisation based on two-dimensional diagrams with chemical element concentrations or complex environmental gradients as axes can be used to predict the dynamics of ecosystem components as a result of changes in chemical pollution. The practical relevance of the obtained results is that forecasting of dynamic trends, protection and restoration of ecosystem components is impossible without taking into account their interrelationships with environmental conditions, including chemical pollution. Knowing the geochemical conditions of ecotopes in a certain period of time, it is possible to determine their position in the ecological space on the complex gradients of the environment of the Styr river and its tributaries, to predict the stability and possible changes in vegetation, fauna and microflora caused by environmental pollution.

8

Heavy metal removal from coal fly ash under alkaline conditions by indigenous bacteria isolated from a coal ash dumpsite

Lisafitri Yuni, Kardena Edwan, Helmy Qomarudin

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 4

83--97

EN

Bioleaching is a process that uses microorganisms to remove heavy metals from waste materials, such as fly ash, electronic waste, low-grade ores, mine tailings, and spent catalysts. This study explored indigenous bacteria from contaminated environments to identify promising candidates for heavy metal bioleaching and investigate the underlying mechanisms. The bacteria were identified at the genomic level to determine their species, and bioleaching experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of pulp density on heavy metal removal from fly ash using two bacterial species. The bioleaching efficiency, bacterial population, and other parameters were measured to analyse the bioleaching mechanisms. The results identified the bacterial isolates as Bacillus toyonensis and Bacillus tropicus. The addition of 5% (w/v) fly ash yielded the highest bioleaching efficiency for copper, zinc, chromium, and nickel. Among the two, Bacillus toyonensis showed the highest efficiency, with 63.62% for copper, 79.38% for zinc, 60.42% for chromium, and 52.26% for nickel. The bioleaching process occurred in an alkaline medium, with the pH shifting from neutral to alkaline during the experiment. In conclusion, the two Bacillus species effectively bioleached heavy metals from fly ash through biosorption, complexolysis, and redoxolysis mechanisms, similar to those found in other heterotrophic and autotrophic bacteria. However, it is important to note that bioleaching in this study took place in an alkaline medium, excluding acidolysis and complexolysis mechanisms that involve organic acids.

9

Ecological risk assessment through heavy metal concentrations of lead, copper, cadmium, zinc, and nickel in marine sediments of Maspari Island, South Sumatra Indonesia

Putri Wike Ayu Eka, Meiyerani Jeni, Ulqodry Tengku Zia, Aryawati Riris, Purwiyanto Anna, Rozirwan Rozirwan, Suteja Yulianto

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 2

297--310

EN

Heavy metals come from anthropogenic and geological activities. It is necessary to know the concentration of heavy metals in anticipation of pollution of marine ecosystems so this study aims to determine the content of heavy metals lead (Pb), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) in the sediments of Maspari Island, South Sumatra. Samples were tested for heavy metal levels using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and processed using Microsoft Excel. All heavy metal geoaccumulation index (Igeo) values were negative, meaning they were less than 0 and categorized as unpolluted. The Igeo value closest to 0 is heavy metal Cd of -2.8 at station 8 which is sourced from agricultural runoff water and aquaculture. All heavy metal contamination factor (Cf) values are less than 1 which is included in the low contamination level criteria. The largest PLI value at station 5 is 0.000051425 which is categorized as unpolluted to lightly polluted. The concentrations of heavy metals Pb, Cu, Cd, Zn, and Ni from eight stations did not exceed the quality standards.

10

Assessing the loading capacity of walnut peels as a nanobiomass for the biosorption of certain heavy metals from wastewater

Khalaf Sarah Adnan, Shartooh Sufyan Mohammed, Abdullah Shihan Mayada

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 2

169--182

EN

Bio-removal of heavy metal pollution remains a major challenge in environmental biotechnology. This paper focuses on the potential of carbon nanoparticles for biosorption of zinc, copper, and cadmium ions from aqueous solutions, employing economical and environmentally sound plant wastes. Walnut peels were washed by distilled water, mixed with KOH, burned at 650 °C, and treated ultrasonically to obtain carbon nanoparticles. Standard solutions of the heavy metals under study were prepared based on calculations of the molecular weights of the relevant metal salts Zn, Cu, and Cd, the metal ions were estimated in both treated and wastewater sample. The experiment included evaluating the effect of some environmental factors on the process of biosorption of heavy metals from wastewater to choose the optimal conditions for the adsorption process. These environmental factors included the initial metal concentration, pH, temperature, retention time, and biomass. The optimum conditions of initial metal concentration, pH, temperature, retention time, and biomass were recorded as 100 mg/l, pH of 7, 45 °C., 60 min., 0.2 g respectively. These results were supported by XRD examination, which indicated the presence of two Bragg diffraction peaks in the carbon nanoparticles, and TEM results also indicated the presence of inhomogeneous particles, as well as the irregular shape of the surface of the carbon nanoparticles with a large surface area, according to SEM examination. However, the optimal adsorption conditions were applied in a laboratory treatment unit, which showed its efficiency in removing heavy metal ions from wastewater. Carbon nanoparticles derived from walnut shells can be employed as excellent adsorbents for removing heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions.

11

Analysis of the impact of soil contamination by deltamethrin and heavy metals on wheat quality and yield

Hasanaj Nazmi, Dreshaj Adem, Shala Nexhdet, Selimaj Afrim, Sadija Thelleza Latifi, Osmanaj Arben

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 26, nr 4

334--342

EN

The presence of pesticides in wheat is a problem closely related to the use of these substances to control pests (insects, diseases and weeds) during wheat production. The aim of the study is the presence (concentration) of pesticides including Deltamethrin which are used to ensure high yield and to protect crops from pests, can reduce the quality and quantity of wheat. Heavy metals often reach agricultural lands through the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, while dust generated by vehicles and other activities can contribute to the deposition of these elements in the soil. Heavy metals are chemical elements with high density and are solid, including substances such as: lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu). The study was conducted in the Dukugjin area, which has an area of 1562 km2 and aims to assess the concentrations of heavy metals and pesticides in agricultural soils. The results of the study for wheat show that in some cases, the concentration values exceed the norm parameters. For example, the samples for the cadmium position (X1) have an average value of 0.061 mg·kg-1, while for nickel the average value is 0.119 mg·kg-1. For the samples for the position (X2), cadmium has an average value of 0.231 mg·kg-1, while copper reaches an average value of 0.341 mg·kg-1. In the analysis of agricultural soil, the concentration of nickel is relatively high, with an average value of 4.966 mg·kg-1, while for samples (X2), the value reaches a much higher level of 8.553 mg·kg-1. Regarding deltamethrin, in samples from position (X2).

12

The Influence of Mixing Intensity on the Sorbent Particle's Distribution and the Efficiency of Adsorption of Cu2+ Ions from Aqueous Solutions

Orlof-Naturalna Monika, Młynarczykowska Anna

Inżynieria Mineralna

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2025

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Vol. 1, no. 1

183--188

EN

Industrial and human activity has a significant impact on the environment, contributing, among others, to the increase in the pollution of natural waters, including heavy metals. Their source may be sewage from the metallurgical, electroplating or mining industries. Particularly dangerous to the health and life of living organisms are, among others: Cr(VI), Zn(II), Cu(II), Cd(II), Fe(II) and Ni(II), because they have a significant ability to accumulate in soft tissues. Physicochemical methods, electrochemical, membrane and sorption processes or ion exchange are used to remove such pollutants. Applying the principles of waste-free economy in a closed circuit, selected biomass is increasingly used as a sorbent. The paper presents a theoretical analysis of the effect of mixing intensity on the efficiency of the sorption process under established process conditions in connection with the assessment of the degree of dispersion of solid phase particles in the reactor.

PL

Działalność przemysłowa i człowieka wywiera istotny wpływ na środowisko, przyczyniając się między innymi do wzrostu zanieczyszczenia wód naturalnych, w tym metalami ciężkimi. Ich źródłem mogą być ścieki z przemysłu hutniczego, galwanicznego czy górniczego. Szczególnie niebezpieczne dla zdrowia i życia organizmów żywych są m.in.: Cr(VI), Zn(II), Cu(II), Cd(II), Fe(II) i Ni(II), ponieważ wykazują znaczną zdolność do akumulacji w tkankach miękkich. Do usuwania tych zanieczyszczeń stosuje się metody fizykochemiczne, procesy elektrochemiczne, membranowe, sorpcyjne czy wymianę jonową. Stosując zasady gospodarki bezodpadowej w obiegu zamkniętym, coraz częściej jako sorbent wykorzystuje się wyselekcjonowaną biomasę. W artykule przedstawiono teoretyczną analizę wpływu intensywności mieszania na efektywność procesu sorpcji w ustalonych warunkach procesowych w powiązaniu z oceną stopnia dyspersji cząstek fazy stałej w reaktorze.

13

Statistical Analysis of Soil Contamination in Vicinity of Coal-Processing Plant: Implications for Ecosystem Stability

Kochmar Iryna, Karabyn Vasyl

Geomatics and Environmental Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 19, no. 6

97--125

EN

The extensive generation of waste and intensified geological processes that result from hard coal mining and active operations within mining regions have led to increases in the pollution levels of ecosystems. Most coal-mining wastes contain significant amounts of heavy metals and are, therefore, particularly hazardous to the environment. The soils around waste heaps can be contaminated with various pollutants. This article presents the results of a study of soils that were sampled in the impact zone of the waste heap of the Chervonohradska CPP of the Chervonohrad Mining District. Using statistical methods (including variogram modeling and spatial interpolation), we analyzed the spatial distributions of heavy metals in the affected soil zones. This approach allowed for an enhanced understanding of contamination-dispersion patterns and potential risk areas. The authors collected soil samples from the depth of the biotically active humus-accumulative horizon from the lower tier of the slope of the waste heap at distances of 20 m, 40 m, and 100 m from the spoil tip. We measured the contents of the studied elements in the soil using X-ray fluorescence analysis and assessed the quality of the soil by phytotesting using the Triticum aestivum L. and Lepidium sativum L. test species. It was found that the average concentrations of certain heavy metals in multiple samples exceeded the background values for the region and affected the inhibition of the development and growth of the test objects.

14

The reconstruction of river system pollution changes with metals in shallow floodplain water reservoirs during the onset of the post-industrialisation period

Ciszewski Dariusz, Szarek-Gwiazda Ewa, Pociecha Agnieszka

Geology, Geophysics and Environment

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2025

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Vol. 51, no. 2

205--218

EN

Towards the end of the 20th century, Poland’s economy experienced a transformation in terms of its industry and increasingly stringent environmental requirements. Together, these resulted in the general improvement of the quality of the aquatic environment. The Chechło River catchment is an example of such changes, where the closure of many industrial plants (including a zinc-lead [Zn-Pb] mine), the reclamation of several hot spots and the extension of sewage treatment contributed to a general decline in sediment pollution with Zn, Pb and Cd. The aim of the investigations was to evaluate the rate of these changes in order to assess the river recovery rate to the pre-industrial pollution level. The research involved the comparison of sediment pollution in subsidence reservoirs from two different eras: the peak of pollution and the post-industrial era. We observed a decrease in sediment pollution, mostly influenced by the closure of the Zn-Pb mine in 2010, despite many sources being closed or mitigated at that time. The change in sediment pollution was very well observed in the younger reservoir of the post-industrialisation period which is an efficient trap for sediments transported since ca. 2007. Considering that the sampling took place less than 10 years after the closure of the mine, we could regard the 3–4-fold drop as a rapid change. In older reservoirs, which were active already during the period of peak river pollution but connected with the river only by narrow ditches, changes in sediment pollution were minor. Pollution changes expected in the future will be much slower because the supply of pollutants from diffuse sources has dispersed in the prevailing part of the catchment.

15

Assessment of Soil Contamination by Roof Runoff. A Case Study from Wrocław, Poland

Hołtra Anna, Zamorska-Wojdyła Dorota, Ferenc Zbigniew

Environment Protection Engineering

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2025

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Vol. 51, nr 1

93--109

EN

The study focused on the determination of heavy metals originating from anthropogenic sources to assess the environmental and health risks to city residents. The single pollution indices showed the key pollutants in soils such as Zn, Cd, and Pb. Contamination level assessment and the toxicity of pollutants were done by the multi-elemental pollution indices. They showed heavy pollution of tested soils with high ecological risk. The correlation analysis and the principal component analysis model were utilized to identify the relative contribution of metals to soil pollution and provide information about the potential sources of metals. The most important for elemental composition in soils in Wrocław are three emission sources: leaching of pollutants from the materials used in the roof coverings and guttering, domestic heating with fossil fuel combustion and other solid materials, leaching of the air pollution including of the road traffic. The health risk analysis shows that ingestion and then dermal contact are the greatest exposure pathways for humans. The health risk was low, although children have greater risks than adults.

16

Using statistical analysis and pollution indices to characterize metal pollution in volcanic and calcareous soils in semi-arid regions

Nadem Samir, Barakat Ahmed, El Baghdadi Mohamed, Hilali Abdessamad, Bouras El Houssaine, Mosaid Hassan, El Garnaoui Mohamed

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2025

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Vol. 26, iss. 3

17--33

EN

The main objective of this study was to evaluate heavy metal contamination in volcanic and calcareous soils within Morocco’s semi-arid regions, focusing on the relationship between unique soil types and contamination dynamics. Using geographic information systems (GIS), statistical analyses, and several pollution indices, including the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), contamination factor (CF), and pollution load index (PLI), the research integrates physical and chemical properties to uncover the interactions driving contamination. A total of 64 soil samples from volcanic and calcareous origins, collected at a depth of 20 cm, were analyzed for properties such as organic matter, calcium carbonates CaCO₃, pH, electrical conductivity, and texture, and four heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, and Fe). Findings reveal distinct contamination patterns: calcareous soils had elevated pH, high CaCO₃ levels, and moderate salinity, whereas volcanic soils were more acidic, with higher organic matter content and lower salinity. The contamination indices revealed that all soil samples exhibited some level of contamination, with Zn and Fe concentrations in volcanic soils showing moderate to high pollution levels, while calcareous soils generally displayed lower contamination. The Igeo and CF indices confirmed moderate to high contamination in volcanic soils, particularly for Zn and Fe, whereas calcareous soils showed minimal pollution. The EF analysis indicated slightly higher enrichment for Cu and Zn in calcareous soils than in volcanic soils. The PLI values for both soil types were below 1, suggesting low pollution levels overall. Statistical analyses demonstrated that contamination was shaped by soil characteristics like texture, organic matter, and pH, with anthropogenic sources contributing to heavy metal presence. This study provides new insights into the interaction between soil properties and contamination dynamics in contrasting soil types, revealing that volcanic soils are more prone to heavy metal accumulation due to their physicochemical characteristics. By integrating pollution indices and robust statistical approaches, this work highlights the influence of soil geochemistry on contamination patterns and offers valuable information for informing sustainable land management strategies in vulnerable semi-arid regions.

17

Selenium is a toxicant or antitoxicant

Bejanidze Irina, Jakeli Eteri, Davitadze Nazi, Nakashidze Nunu, Didmanidze Nato

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2025

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Vol. 26, iss. 2

392--406

EN

The article deals with the issues of selenium content in plants, soil and human body, toxic and antitoxic properties of selenium. The studies were carried out on dried raw materials harvested in 2019 and 2021: stems, flowers and leaves of blueberries, chamomile, linden and oregano. The content of Se and other elements (Al, Fe, Mn, Ti. B, Pb, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, As and Cu) were determined both in plant material and in the soils of eastern Georgia (Abastumani) and western (Khulo), as well as in the hair of people living in this territory. The dependence of the selenium content on the type of plant and the time of its collection, the type of soil and distribution area was established, and an analysis was made of the Se coupling in these territories inhabitants hair. The influence of selenium on the accumulation of heavy metals in the objects of study was determined. It has been established that the largest amount of selenium is contained in the linden leaf, and the smallest – in the oregano leaf; selenium content increases in the order: leaf>flower>stem; the content of selenium in the soil of eastern Georgia (Abastumani) is 13 times higher than that in the soil of western Georgia (Khulo): Abastumani (0.051 μg/l)≫Khulo (0.039 μg/l). It has been established that selenium accumulates in the hair: the amount of selenium in the hair of a young girl (0.152 μg/l) is 70% higher than in the hair of a 60-year-old woman (0.055 μg/l). A high selenium to iodine ratio indicates gout and diabetes. It was found that an 18-year-old girl developed hypothyroidism due to an excess of selenium. It has been established that the amount of calcium and potassium is 2–5 times higher than the amount of magnesium. A relationship has been established between the content of selenium and lead: with an increase in the amount of lead, the amount of selenium sometimes decreases almost to a trace amount. In the objects of study, the amount of lead is 100-200 times higher than the amount of selenium. The largest amount of aluminum is found in the leaf, flowers of linden and oregano, the smallest – in the leaf of chamomile, iron in the flowers, and manganese in the leaves of the lind. The relationship between the content of selenium and arsenic, iron, phosphorus, zinc and manganese has been proven. An increase in phosphorus, zinc and manganese content reduces iron absorption and an increase in arsenic content causes a decrease in selenium content.

18

Removal of heavy metals by energy crops when grown on technologically contaminated soils

Romanchuk Liudmyla, Matviichuk Nataliia, Abramova Iryna, Matviichuk Bogdan, Tryboi Oleksandra

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2025

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Vol. 26, iss. 1

92--102

EN

The publication presents data on the removal of heavy metals by energy crops Miscanthus giganteus L. and Phalaris arundinacea L. when grown on technologically polluted soils. The yield of Miscanthus giganteus averaged 16.96 t/ha over the two years of research, and that of Falaris arundinacea - 4.38 t/ha, respectively. The nature of heavy metal accumulation by energy plants depended on the type of crop and its productivity during the years of cultivation. The concentration of all heavy metals in the phytomass of energy crops did not exceed the threshold limit value (TLV), except for zinc in miscanthus giganteus plants (by 9-11 mg/kg). Compared to the years of the study, in the second year of cultivation, the coefficient of heavy metal absorption by plants increased significantly compared to the first year due to an increase in the vegetative mass of plants. On average, in 2021-2023, the energy crops Phalaris arundinacea and Miscanthus x giganteus removed a significant amount of heavy metals from 1 ha of soil. It has been proven that energy crops such as Phalaris arundinacea and Miscanthus x giganteus contribute to the purification of technologically contaminated soils from heavy metals, and their products can be used further as biofuels and for other purposes, as the content of toxicants in their phytomass does not exceed the TLV.

19

Evaluation of the ecological state and phytomeliorative efficiency of vegetation at landfills

Korol Kateryna, Bojko Taras, Kobko Yevhen, Tymchyshyn Andriy, Ruban Artem, Popovych Vasyl, Ilkiv Bogdan, Shuplat Taras

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2025

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Vol. 26, iss. 2

239--251

EN

Phytomeliorative efficiency of vegetation species composition on devastated landscapes, including landfills, is a key factor in improving the ecological state at both local and regional levels. This article presents results of assessing heavy metal content and phytomelioration potential of vegetation cover on devastated areas, particularly at the Bronytsia landfill (Lviv region, Ukraine). Depending on the edaphic and climatic conditions, the surface of the devastated territories may have significant phytomeliorative potential, which is an important component of the reclamation process. Urban green spaces play a multifunctional role in improving the environment by providing oxygen production, microclimate regulation, filtration, noise absorption, and decorative and aesthetic functions. The key indicator for assessing the level of phytomelioration in devastated areas is the phytomelioration efficiency coefficient (KFM). During the research at the landfill, various categories of plant communities were identified, such as frutocenoses, sylvacenoses, ruderalenoses, pratocenoses, and agrocenoses. The KFM estimation for each landfill site showed the following results: Site 1 (western side): KFM = 4.5; Site 2 (northern side): KFM = 4.0; Site 3 (eastern side): KFM = 5.0; Site 4 (southern side): KFM = 5.5; Site No. 5 (central part): KFM = 2.1; Site 6 (control): KFM = 6.55. The results obtained indicate the suitability of the study area for reclamation activities for minimizing the negative impact on the environment.

20

Bioaccumulation and translocation of heavy metals mercury and lead in mangroves Rhizophora apiculata and Sonneratia sp. in the estuarine waters of Malili River

Shabrina Mutiara Hikmah, Fahruddin Fahruddin, Samawi Muhammad Farid

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2025

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Vol. 26, iss. 4

88--96

EN

The presence of various industrial activities is not far from negative impacts such as heavy metal waste. This study examined the ability of R. apiculata and Sonneratia sp. mangroves to translocate and accumulate mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in the Malili River estuary, East Luwu regency. The methodology used involved sediment sampling as well as mangrove tissue to analyze heavy metal concentrations. The parameters measured included Hg and Pb concentrations in sediments and tissues of R. apiculata and Sonneratia sp., by calculating the bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF). The results showed that the concentration of Hg metal in sediments ranged from 2.0–2.9 mg/kg, while in R. apiculata and Sonneratia sp. ranged from 0.48–1.14 mg/kg and 0.55–1.05 mg/kg, respectively. For Pb, sediment concentrations ranged from 3.50–8.20 mg/kg, while those of R. apiculata and Sonneratia sp. ranged from 0.22–0.52 mg/kg and 0.35–0.66 mg/kg, respectively. BCF of both mangrove species showed a range of values of 0.03–0.82 which means the value of BCF < 1 (excluder category) while the value of TF showed a range of values of 0.05–0.92 which means the value of TF < 1 (phytostabilization). These results indicate that these mangroves effectively retain heavy metals in the roots without translocating them to other tissues. This study confirmed the role of mangroves as a natural solution in phytoremediation of heavy metal polluted waters.