Using stable lead isotopes to trace heavy metal contamination sources in sediments of Xiangjiang and Lishui Rivers in China

Lead isotopes and heavy metal concentrations were measured in two sediment cores sampled in estuaries of Xiangjiang and Lishui Rivers in Hunan province, China. The presence of anthropogenic contribution was observed in both sediments, especially in Xiangjiang sediment. In the Xiangjiang sediment, the lower 206Pb/207Pb and higher 208Pb/206Pb ratio, than natural Pb isotope signature (1.198 and 2.075 for 206Pb/207Pb and 208Pb/206Pb, respectively), indicated a significant input of non-indigenous Pb with low 206Pb/207Pb and high 208Pb/206Pb. The corresponding concentrations of heavy metals (As, Cd, Zn, Mn and Pb) were much higher than natural values, suggesting the contaminations of heavy metals from extensive ore-mining activities in the region.

► Lead isotopes as indicator of pollution source.
► Sediment cores from estuaries of Xiangjiang and Lishui Rivers in Hunan province, China.
► Serious contamination of As, Cd, Zn, Mn and Pb in the sediments of Xiangjiang River.
► Lower 206Pb/207Pb and higher 208Pb/206Pb ratios than natural Pb isotope signature.
► Heavy metal contamination from extensive ore-mining activities in the region.