The analysis of trace elements including uranium concentration in spring waters from Lesko with the prospect of their balneological use

Abstract

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to analyze trace elements including uranium concentration in spring waters in Lesko. In addition, it was necessary to show that the increased concentration of uranium in these spring waters gives the basis for the, to assumption that we could be dealing with”specific healing radon water". Material and methods: On the northern edge of the city there are springs of healing waters. The springs contain low-mineralized sulphide waters with a low redox potential (ORP) and a slight alkaline reaction. The efficiency of these sources is within 2-3 liters per minute. The paper presents the results of the analysis of elements and trace elements in the above mentioned spring waters by the following methods: AAS, IC, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES. The statistical method of Student’s t-test was used to process the results. Results and conclusions: The statistical research showed that the concentration of uranium in the waters of Lesko is higher than the corresponding concentration in the sulphide water from Rymanów Zdrój. Based on literature in the field of geology, it has been proved that in the vicinity of Bezmiechowa - Monasterzec - Lesko, there are concentrations of uranium in rocks of low value, but sufficient for spring water to contain trace amounts of uranium in ionized form. The increased uranium concentration suggests the presence of radon in the tested waters. If it is proved that radon is present in an appropriate concentration in spring waters, it will allow the use of the above mentioned waters as radon ones for balneological purposes.

Keywords

• radon
• uranium
• icp-oes
• spring waters
• lesko