Heavy Metals

The study deals with the detection of trace elements – Cu, Co, Cd, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni and Pb along with pH and ORP in the groundwater of Guwahati and its adjacent areas. Toxicity of a metal depends on its concentration, which adversely affects any biological activity. Almost all the metals are toxic at higher concentrations, few in low concentrations and few others even in trace like As, Pb, Hg, Cd etc. The presence of such metals in groundwater is a subject of concern. Groundwater that contains higher amount of metals affects public health to a great extent when it is used for drinking and domestic purposes.Read More

This article published in the Journal of Ecobiology describes the technique of phytoremediation, which is increasingly being adopted wherein certain plants are used to adsorb or degrade the pollutants from soil and water.Read More

The discharge of heavy metals in the environment has been a matter of concern with rapid industrialization and intensification of agricultural activities over the last few decades. The pollutants are introduced into the environment without appropriate treatment in most localities. Heavy metals released into the environment today come from uncontrolled emissions by metal smelters and other industrial activities, unsafe disposal of industrial wastes and lead in water pipes, paint  and gasoline.