Heavy metal contamination in sediments and surface water

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the level of heavy metal concentration in sediment and surface water in the Ringlet Lakes, Cameron Highlands and the results obtained were compared with the Dutch Soil Remediation Intervention Value, 2000 (the New Dutch List) and National Water Quality Standards for Malaysia, Class IIB (Recreational use with body contact) for sediment samples and surface water samples respectively. Total of 9 sampling stations were established, 2 samples (April 2018 and July 2018) for each stations for sediments samples and 5 samples (May 2018, June 2018, July 2018, August 2018 and September 2018) for each stations for surface water samples. The parameters that were determined for sediment samples consist of Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn). Whereas the parameters for surface water samples consist of includes Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium Hexavalent (Cr6+), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn). Results for sediments samples shown that all heavy metals concentration did not exceed the Dutch Soil Remediation Intervention Value, 2000 (the New Dutch List). However, Copper (Cu) and Mercury (Hg) exceeded the National Water Quality Standards for Malaysia, Class IIB (Recreational use with body contact). No Cadmium (Cd) was found in all sediment samples and the present of Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium Hexavalent (Cr6+) in surface water samples are non-detectable. Ringlet Lakes considered to be contaminated due to the concentration of Copper (Cu) and Mercury (Hg) in surface water exceeded the recommended value for most samples. It is recommended that periodic monitoring to be conducted and to determine the sources of the contamination to avoid further contamination in the area.