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Multi-Index assessment of trace metal and organic pollution in sediments of Persian Gulf Salt evaporation ponds: toxic and health risk insights.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Multi-Index assessment of trace metal and organic pollution in sediments of Persian Gulf Salt evaporation ponds: toxic and health risk insights.
Authors: Kianersi, Farahnaz1 (AUTHOR), Shirmohammadi, Mehrnaz1 (AUTHOR) Mehrnaz.Shirmohammadi@gmail.com, Owfi, Fereidoon2 (AUTHOR)
Source: International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry. Jun2026, Vol. 106 Issue 7, p1766-1784. 19p.
Subjects: Contaminated sediments, Ecological risk assessment, Heavy metal toxicology, Pollution, Aquatic ecology, Risk exposure, Bodies of water, Industrial pollution
Geographic Terms: Persian Gulf
Abstract: Salt evaporation ponds in the Persian Gulf, vital for ecotourism, face trace metal (TM) and organic pollution from industrial and natural sources. This study evaluated sediment contamination near industrial zones, assessing ecological and human health risks. Eighty-four sediment samples were collected from pond inlets to interior zones. Sediments showed elevated TM levels, with concentrations following the pattern Cr > Zn > Ni > Cu > Pb, where Cr, Ni, and Cu exceeded threshold effect levels, indicating industrial inputs. The enrichment factor indicated moderate pollution for Cr and Ni, while the Geo-accumulation Index suggested slight contamination across the region. Toxic risk indices suggested low risks. Human health assessments indicated hazard quotients and hazard index below 1 for adults, suggesting negligible non-carcinogenic risks, but a Total Hazard Index of 1.26 for children indicated low but notable risk. Positive correlations between metals, total organic carbon (4.86–8.54%), total nitrogen (0.08–0.15%), and silt (61–76%) suggested adsorption as a retention mechanism. Low TN/TOC ratios confirmed marine-derived organic matter. Organic pollution indices classified sites as moderately-to-heavily polluted. Despite low immediate risks, elevated Cr, Cu, Ni, and organic enrichment threaten ecosystem health, necessitating improved wastewater treatment and remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Salt evaporation ponds in the Persian Gulf, vital for ecotourism, face trace metal (TM) and organic pollution from industrial and natural sources. This study evaluated sediment contamination near industrial zones, assessing ecological and human health risks. Eighty-four sediment samples were collected from pond inlets to interior zones. Sediments showed elevated TM levels, with concentrations following the pattern Cr > Zn > Ni > Cu > Pb, where Cr, Ni, and Cu exceeded threshold effect levels, indicating industrial inputs. The enrichment factor indicated moderate pollution for Cr and Ni, while the Geo-accumulation Index suggested slight contamination across the region. Toxic risk indices suggested low risks. Human health assessments indicated hazard quotients and hazard index below 1 for adults, suggesting negligible non-carcinogenic risks, but a Total Hazard Index of 1.26 for children indicated low but notable risk. Positive correlations between metals, total organic carbon (4.86–8.54%), total nitrogen (0.08–0.15%), and silt (61–76%) suggested adsorption as a retention mechanism. Low TN/TOC ratios confirmed marine-derived organic matter. Organic pollution indices classified sites as moderately-to-heavily polluted. Despite low immediate risks, elevated Cr, Cu, Ni, and organic enrichment threaten ecosystem health, necessitating improved wastewater treatment and remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:03067319
DOI:10.1080/03067319.2025.2555588