Heavy Metal Pollution and Sources in Dust from Primary Schools and Kindergartens in Ramadi City, Iraq

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the level of pollution with heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) and their potential sources in dust samples collected from schools in Ramadi City, Iraq. The dust samples were collected from 40 primary schools and two kindergartens and analyzed by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The heavy metal concentrations were found to follow the order Cr > Cu > Pb > Ni > Zn > Cd. The results indicated that the concentrations of Cd, Cu, and Pb exceeded the permitted background values. The pollution level was assessed using the geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and pollution load index (PLI). The classification of dust samples according to Igeo values showed that they ranged from unpolluted for Cu, Cr, Ni, and Zn, to moderately polluted for Pb, and heavily polluted for Cd. The PLI values indicated no to moderate pollution load. The results of the comparisons of heavy metal concentrations with the background values, as well as the multivariate statistical analysis, indicated three groups of heavy metals with different sources or origins: (1) Cd and Cu (anthropogenic source: vehicle emissions); (2) Pb (mixed source); and (3) Cr, Ni, and Zn (Geogenic source). This study is the first attempt in Iraq to investigate the concentrations of heavy metals in the dust of indoor environments. This study provides the environmental protection managers and decision-makers with important information about the concentrations of heavy metals and their sources in indoor environments.

Evaluation of Soil Pollution Levels in Al-Qadisiyah Governorate, Iraq Using Contamination Index and GIS

“…Four trace element I-geo values revealed the circumstances ranging from non-polluted to badly contaminated. The pollutant load index (PLI) reveals a baseline level of contamination in 28 locations, as well as a decline in soil quality in four others (Radhi et al, 2021).…”

Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Dust in Vilnius Schools: Source Identification, Pollution Levels, and Potential Health Risks for Children

“…Some studies utilized vacuum cleaners and their bags as the collection method [ 13 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Other authors collected dust samples from multiple areas such as classroom floors, windowsills, playgrounds, balconies, doorsteps, stairs, entryways, fans, air conditioner filters, bookshelves, wall corners, desks, chairs [ 2 , 3 , 21 , 22 , 23 ].…”

“…Dust, which is composed of solid particles in the form of fine powder (less than 100 µm), is commonly referred to as particulate matter (PM). It is highly polluting due to its ability to be easily transported through the air [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. In urban areas, street dust plays a significant role in pollution.…”

“…Indoor dust serves as a notable source of metal exposure for people and this dust originates from various internal sources, including cooking, smoking, sweeping, wall erosion, rubber carpet materials, painting, building and furniture materials, consumer products, and other interior activities. On the other hand, external pollution sources contribute to indoor dust through the infiltration of emissions from traffic, auto repair, welding, waste burning, playground dust, and so on [ 2 , 3 ]. Comparative studies of indoor dust pollution across various global locations reveal significant variations in heavy metal concentrations.…”

“…Comparative studies of indoor dust pollution across various global locations reveal significant variations in heavy metal concentrations. For instance, studies show elevated levels of Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Fe in indoor dust from Malaysia, Iraq, Hong Kong, and Nigeria, among others [ 2 , 3 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Such variations are indicative of the widespread and diverse nature of indoor dust pollution, necessitating a deeper understanding of its sources and impacts on human health.…”