Concentration of Heavy Metals Levels in Sediments from the Upper Zone of the Locumba River, Peru

Apaza R.M.C.; Gonzales L.F.A.; Ancca S.M. · Produccion y Limpia (2023) · DOI: 10.22507/pml.v18n2a6

Resumen

Introduction. The aquatic ecosystem as the final recipient of waste produced by anthropogenic and natural processes is a growing pollution problem on our planet and currently the presence of heavy metals, they present is an alarming index. This research is important because the Ite district uses river water as an elemental liquid for its daily activities and consumption. The Locumba River sub-basin is located within the Ite district and is characterized by mining and agricultural activities. Objective. Determine the quality of the river sediments through the concentrations of heavy metals (As, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn and Pb) in the upper area of the Locumba river. Materials and methods. In the months of January and March, sampling was carried out in an altitudinal range between 350 and 800 meters above sea level, in the dry and rainy season. The guide for sediment sampling (LSASDPROC- 200-R4), USEPA quality standards, was used. The analyzes were performed by ICPOES Plasma Spectroscopy. Results. The concentration levels show us that heavy metals are present as; Arsenic exceeded standards of 58 ppm on average, Boron with 8.2 ppm, Copper with 372 ppm and Lead with 121 ppm. Conclusions. The sediment quality of the Locumba River due to the presence of heavy metals is not adequate and brings with it environmental risks, affecting the biota and ecosystems.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Moquegua