Geochemical aspects of heavy metal fractionation in eucalyptus soils

Abstract

Aspects of heavy metals fractionation (Cu, Cr and Co) in main eucalyptus cultivated soils were investigated after total extraction by alkaline fusion and selective sequential extractions. The study aimed to identify the major geochemical fractions and phases involved in metal complexation. Possible pollution classes were investigated through index of geo-accumulation (Igeo), considering the local natural background level. Among the main soils, Typic Hapludox showed the highest concentrations of these metals. However, there was no contamination according to the calculated Igeo. The selective sequential extractions showed that, for most analyzed soil, there was a predominance of these metals in the residual phase (> 80%), compared to the bioavailable fraction, and in this case, an association with the geochemical phase of Fe oxides.  Cultural treatments, performed in this region during the eucalyptus cultivation, did not have residual effects in terms of heavy metals in soils.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/globalhealthprespesc-033