Abstract:
Objective To investigate the content characteristics, distribution, sources, and ecological risks of heavy metals in farmland soils of Dalian, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the formulation of localized control measures.
Methods In 2024, 54 soil samples were collected from all agricultural areas in the counties and districts of Dalian. Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) were measured using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, chromium (Cr) was measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry, mercury (Hg) was measured using atomic fluorescence spectrometry, and pH was measured using potentiometry. Geographic Information System (GIS) geostatistical method, single-factor pollution index, Nemero comprehensive pollution index, and single-factor potential ecological risk index were applied to study the heavy metal pollution characteristics and levels in Dalian farmland soils. Spearman correlation analysis and cluster analysis were used to explore the sources of heavy metals in Dalian farmland soils.
Results The median concentrations of soil heavy metals in soil samples were the following: Cr (55.821 mg/kg) > Pb (8.123 mg/kg) > Cd (0.112 mg/kg) > Hg (0.021 mg/kg). Compared with risk screening value using arithmetic mean values, the exceedance rates of Cd and Cr were 22.22% and 5.56%, respectively, but the arithmetic mean values at all sites did not exceed the regulatory limits. Spatially, high-value areas of Pb, Cr, and Cd were concentrated in Jinpu New Area. Pollution assessment showed that Cd was the primary pollutant, with the highest single-factor pollution index (1.983), Nemero index (77.78% of sites in Jinpu New Area were heavily polluted), and potential ecological risk index (arithmetic mean 59.475, indicating relatively high risk), followed by Hg (moderate risk). Source analysis revealed that Cd and Pb shared the same origin, whereas Hg and Cr had independent sources.
Conclusion The overall environmental quality of farmland soils in Dalian is relatively good, but Cd and Hg pose relatively high pollution risks.