Environmental consequences of a galvanising plant fire

• DOI: 10.24425/jwld.2024.151552
• Publication Date: 2024-10-04T11:50:36Z
• Authors: Anna Świercz; Mirosław Szwed; Łukasz Bąk
• Keywords: River, lake, and water-supply engineering (General); TC401-506; toxic metals; geoaccumulation; TC801-978; agricultural soils; Irrigation engineering. Reclamation of wasteland. Drainage; ecological risk; environmental monitoring

The aim of the study is to determine concentration selected heavy metals in soil contaminated with galvanising fume resulting from a fire plant. Surface horizon exposed contamination by toxic fumes due plant Dębska Wola near Kielce (SE Poland) was analysed. Soil samples were collected an agricultural area 12 ha after plant’s failure 2019 and three years 2022. Grain-size distribution, pH zinc, lead cadmium determined. acceptable values pollutants significantly exceeded (Znmax – 2007.3 mg∙kg−1 DM, Pbmax 509.5 Cdmax 17.1 DM 0–5 cm horizon) reduced control 756.1 320.1 15 DM). In organic-mineral concentrations declined average Zn 41.8%, Pb 26.1% Cd 16.3%, while mineral 27.8% (Zn), 26.7% (Pb) 15.6% (Cd). Industrial plants, which thermal treatment molten conducted, pose real threat environment case failure. order minimise effects potential leaks, their location should be thoroughly considered. course consequences accidents monitored during event (such as fire) long term (e.g. use bioindicators).