Kirkuk University Journal for Agricultural Sciences (KUJAS)

Determination of Soil Contamination by Some Heavy Metals Using Chemical Techniques and a Spectroradiometer at Two Sites in Erbil Governorate, Iraq

https://doi.org/10.58928/ku26.17209
Volume 17, Issue 2
Spring 2026
Page 78-85
Kirkuk University Journal for Agricultural Sciences (KUJAS)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Sihar I Dosky 1
Ismaeel T. Ahmed 2

1 Salahaddin University (College of Agriculture Engineering Science) -Erbil

2 Department of Soil and Water, College of Agriculture Engineering Sciences, Salahaddin University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, IRAQ

Abstract
Polluted soil samples were randomly collected in August 2024 around two sources of pollution (Gas Station and Steel Factory), which are located in the south and west of Erbil city. Each sample was about 100 meters away from the source of pollution, and the control samples were about 1 km away from the source, and the soil samples were taken from 0–30 cm depth in the study area. Then, some chemical and physical properties and the spectral reflectance of the soil samples were determined by spectroradiometer (ASD-Field Spectro), in order to know its relation with heavy metal concentrations and other soil properties. The study showed that the Cd concentration in Steel Factory > Gas Station, the Pb and Ni concentration in Gas Station > Steel Factory, on the other hand the highest value of spectral reflectance was at the Gas Station sample (G11), and the lowest reflectance value was at the Steel Factory sample (S6). The results indicate that the concentrations of heavy metals (Cd, Pd and Ni) in soils from contaminated sites were significantly higher than those in the control samples, which the control sites remain largely unaffected. The results of this study emphasize the critical necessity for regular and systematic monitoring of fuel-related activities and industrial operations within the study region in order to prevent additional soil degradation. The excessive buildup of heavy metals in the soil may be avoided in large part by enacting stricter and more thorough environmental rules and implementing well-thought-out remediation plans. In addition to preserving and enhancing soil quality, such actions would ensure the long-term viability of regional ecosystems and enhance agricultural output for upcoming generations, improving living standards and lowering possible health hazards.

Keywords

KEY WORDS: Soil pollution
Heavy metals
Chemical techniques
Spectroradiometer
Gas station and Steel factory
Subjects
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