POLLUTION BY HEAVY METALS OF THE AGRICULTURAL MICRO-BASIN OF THE HUANCARAY RIVER – PERU

Abstract

Metals are transported, spatially and temporally, through the ground surface and the atmosphere, generating environmental and social problems in populations located in the hydrographic basins. The present study aimed to determine sources and metal levels in water sediments in the micro-basin of the Huancaray river in Apurímac region (Peru), using the X-ray fluorescence analysis technique (XRF) during the dry and rainy season of 2018 and 2019. The elements detected were K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Br, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb and Ba. At each point and sampling period, critical elements have been found, as Zn, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni and As; concentrations are above permissible limits; likewise, in the rainy and dry seasons there are no significant differences, while the main sources of pollution are populated centers; agricultural practices; presence of illegal mining; and source of natural origin.