Journal of Environmental Science and Technology

Volume 14 (1), 13-20, 2021


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Chemical Composition of Dust Storms in Agricultural Areas of Arid Land in KSA

Abdulaziz B. Alharbi

Background and Objective: The elemental concentrations of deposited dust are often used to assess the level of contamination and for monitoring air pollution. Therefore, this study determined the chemical composition of dust storms in agricultural areas of arid land. Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from 18 positions in the Qassim region. The concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Ba and Zn were determined in the deposited dust. Results: The means of As, Co, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni and Zn concentrations in dust were 9.72, 14.4, 109, 31.6, 14.o, 59.3, 437 and 75.5, respectively. The concentrations of the previous elements in dust samples were not in the toxicity values range. Also, data indicated that positions D1, D2, D3, D12 and D14 were higher in silicon but lower in aluminum, iron, Ca and Mg. Conversely, the other positions were lower in silicon but higher in aluminum, iron, calcium and magnesium. However, all positions recorded almost the same amount of the alkali elements, potassium and sodium. Conclusion: The analyses showed that dust has increased nutrient value and great agricultural value. The dust content of heavy metals was less than the maximum allowable concentrations.

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How to cite this article:

Abdulaziz B. Alharbi, 2021. Chemical Composition of Dust Storms in Agricultural Areas of Arid Land in KSA. Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 14: 13-20.


DOI: 10.3923/jest.2021.13.20
URL: https://ansinet.com/abstract.php?doi=jest.2021.13.20

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