:: Volume 23, Issue 1 (4-2015) ::
Journal of Ilam University of Medical Sciences 2015, 23(1): 63-70 Back to browse issues page
Assessment of Heavy Metals Lead, Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel and Zinc in Compost Production Plant in Kerman
Mohamad Malakootian * 1, Rasool Momenzadeh2
1- Kerman University of Medical Sciences , m.malakootian@yahoo.com
2- Kerman University of Medical Sciences
Abstract:   (8281 Views)

Introduction: Transference of heavy metals from compost to consumption environment leads to increase in intake of elements in soil layers and contaminating underground water. The aim of this study was to determine the metals Lead, Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel and Zinc in the compost production plant in Kerman in order to control the possible pollution made by them.
Materials & Methods: This study is descriptive and analytic. Sampling and testing were performed in May and June 1392. The sample consisted of 12 ‌ 60 tons of depot compost related to1391 was removed from factory. Samples were prepared with the method of digesting by Nitric Acid. The concentration of heavy metals lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel and zinc were determined twice by atomic absorption device. The obtained results were analyzed using SPSS software.
 Findings: The mean concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Zn in samples of compost produced at the plant in Kerman were 221.85±15.69, 1.36±0.11, 147.94±5.9, 129.71±9.45, 634.71±28.05 mg/kg respectively.
 Discussion & Conclusion: According to the results of this study, the mean concentration of Pb was more than its allowable standard rate of Environmental Protection Agency of America (EPA) and Standard and Industrial Researches Institute of Iran. The mean concentration of Nickel was higher than its allowable standard rate of Standard and Industrial Researches Institute of Iran. The mean concentrations of Cadmium, Chromium and Zinc were lower than the standard rate. The difference was statistically significant (p <0.0001). Regarding to the importance of the rate of heavy metals in compost, considering standards to control the quality of the final product obtained from the composting process is necessary.

Keywords: Heavy metals, Compost, Kerman
Full-Text [PDF 495 kb]   (2745 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Environmental health
Received: 2014/03/20 | Accepted: 2014/07/21 | Published: 2015/05/10


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