Title : Evaluation of heavy metal contamination in marine sediment from Bargny coast (Senegal)
Abstract:
Marine sediments samples from Bargny coast (Senegal) were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The microwave acid digestion was also employed for metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, As) determination. The physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, salinity, electrical conductivity) measured complied with European water standards. Fine fraction (< 63 μm) of sediments was used for extraction and determination of metallic trace elements. This study shows the presence of metallic contaminants in the marine sediments of the Bargny area. The marine sediments samples analyzed show practically similar metal contents during three sampling periods. The analytical results show that content of metallic trace elements found in marine sediments was in the following order: As> Cr> Cd> Pb (μg/g). This pollution can be attributed to the two factories located in this area: a coal-fired power station factory and a cement production factory (SOCOCIM INDUSTRY). This study shows the possibility of using sediment as an indicator of pollution because of its high capacity to accumulate pollutants. The ANOVA statistical analysis of results shows significant differences between metal contents of sediments studied during different campaigns. The assessment shows that sediments of Bargny coast do not present any significant risk of toxicity for living organisms in this aquatic system.
Keywords: TH Metal, Marine Sediment, Pollution, Bargny Coast, Senegal
