Quantitative Assessment and Source of Heavy Metals in Bricks: A Case Study of Lakki Marwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Humans' indiscriminate usage of heavy metals has a negative impact on the world's natural ecosystem. One of the main causes of contaminating the fresh and healthy atmosphere in rural Pakistan is the use of coal and soil in an improper manner by brick kilns. Different heavy metal concentrations and their impact on the surrounding areas of Pakistan's District Lakki Marwat were investigated in this study. Acid digestion methods were used to prepare samples, which were then examined using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The concentrations of cadmium, iron, and lead in certain samples exceeded the WHO's permitted level, whereas nickel and zinc concentrations were within the limit. It was also discovered that the supply of raw materials is the key determinant in the buildup of heavy metals in the areas near brick not the age of the kiln.

Keywords

• bricks kiln
• heavy metals
• coal