Identification of Pb sources using Pb isotopic compositions in the core sediments from Western Xiamen Bay, China. Issue 1 (15th December 2016) - Yu, Ruilian
Abstract: Pb concentrations and Pb isotopic compositions (total and acid-extractable) in the core sediments collected from Western Xiamen Bay, China, were determined to investigate the Pb pollution history and trace the Pb sources. Pb concentration showed an increasing trend (from 40.3 to 64.2 mg kg − 1 ) with obvious fluctuation from 1967 to 2013, reflected by the core sediments. The enrichment factors of Pb were between 2 and 5, indicating a moderate enrichment. The relative contributions of Pb-Zn deposit and parent material to total Pb in the core sediments were 51%–62% and 38%–49%, respectively. Acid-extractable Pb isotopic signature was more sensitive than total Pb isotopic signature in identifying anthropogenic Pb sources due to the substantial variability of acid-extractable Pb isotopic ratios exhibited in the core sediments. Based on the acid-extractable Pb isotopic ratios, Pb-Zn deposit and industrial emission were regarded as the main anthropogenic Pb contributors. Highlights: Pb concentrations and Pb isotopic compositions were determined in the core sediments from Western Xiamen Bay, China. Total Pb were mainly from Pb-Zn deposit and parent material with the contributions of 51%-62% and 38%-49%, respectively. The main anthropogenic sources of Pb in the core sediments were Pb-Zn deposit and industrial emission. Acid-extractable Pb isotopic compositions are proved more sensitive in identifying anthropogenic Pb sources.