Metals in water and fish near four coal-fired power plants and human risk assessment in Chungcheongnam-do, Korea

Abstract

This study aims to assess the contamination of water and fish with nine metals (Fe, Al, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd, Ni, As, and Cr) emitted by four coal-fired power plants in Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. Samples were collected at sites near each coal-fired power plant during the summer and fall. Control samples were also collected for comparison with the study samples. The concentrations of metals ranged from 0.01 to 4,654 μg/L in water. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks are associated with human exposure to Pb and As. Managing the presence of metals in the water environment is crucial for preserving the aquatic ecosystem.

Keywords

• Metals
• Coal-fired power plant
• Contamination
• Aquatic environment
• Human risk assessment