Environmental Pollution Assessment of Some Heavy Metals in the Western Coast of Tripoli, Libya
Keywords:
(Heavy metals)Sediment contamination , Tripoli, LibyaAbstract
In this study, heavy metal concentrations were measured in sediments of the western coast of Tripoli, Libya, during the year (2024). Sediments (<63 mm) collected from (10) sites representing the study area were examined and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The concentrations of the studied heavy metals in the samples ranged in (micrograms per gram) as follows: iron (202.42-347.21), cadmium (0.219-1.41), copper (9.183-69.64), lead (0.61-6.63), manganese (34.14-108.34), and zinc (7.87-42.11). The enrichment factor (EF) index was used to determine the level of sediment contamination in the study area. The results showed a clear variation in contamination levels. Station 8 recorded the highest enrichment factor values, particularly for cadmium (14.1) and copper (6.96), indicating a strong source of pollution associated with marine and industrial activities. Station 1 recorded much lower levels, with an enrichment factor of 1.14 for copper and 5.57 for cadmium, reflecting a lesser influence from human activities. Results of the geological accumulation index (Igeo) calculations for the samples showed that iron (Fe) was the most contaminated element (highly contaminated), followed by cadmium (Cd) (moderately contaminated in some locations). For copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), sample S8 recorded moderate contamination, while the remaining samples remained uncontaminated. Lead (Pb) and manganese (Mn) showed no contamination. These results indicate that human activity, particularly industrial and marine, has increased iron and cadmium levels, while the remaining elements remained within normal values. Pollution load index (PLI) values indicate the variability in contamination levels across the studied stations. Most stations (1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10) showed values less than 1, indicating no significant metal contamination. Stations 2, 7, and 9 recorded values ranging from 0.59 to 1.04, indicating low to moderate contamination. Station 8 was the most polluted, recording the highest value (1.28) due to heavy marine activity. The results indicate the impact of human activities on marine sediment quality, with areas near ports and industrial facilities experiencing higher contamination levels.
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