Author(s): LIMA, E. S. A.; AMARAL SOBRINHO, N. M. B. do; PEREZ, D. V.; COUTINHO, I. B.

Summary: The diversity of methods for heavy metal extraction from soils complicates comparison of results used by environmental agencies to establish quality reference values. The aim of this study was to evaluate three soil digestion methods regarding the solubilizing capacity of Ba, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, and to propose a standard method to establish Quality Reference Values (QRVs) for Brazilian Histosols. Twenty soil samples were selected to evaluate the USEPA 3051, USEPA 3051A and Aqua Regia methods in a closed system. The methods tested were statistically similar regarding Cu, Fe and Mn extraction from soils. However, the methods can not be considered similar for Ba, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn; Aqua Regia recorded the highest levels, except for Ba. The Aqua Regia method proved suitable for metal extraction from soils with organic characteristics and can be used to establish QRVs.

Publication year: 2016

Types of publication: Journal article

Unit: Embrapa Soils

Keywords: Horizonte, Organic horizons, Pseudo-total content, Soil digestion methods, Solo