The spatial pattern of beryllium and its possible origin using compositional data analysis on a high-density topsoil data set from the Campania Region (Italy)

Beryllium distribution is influenced by multiple geogenic factors. We proved that Be anomaly in topsoils is not only influenced by the presence of volcanoclastic deposits but the advancement of pedogenetic processes (e.g. chemical weathering, rubification) is equally or even more important. We pointed out that Be anomaly is mainly concentrated in topsoils developed over the oldest pyroclastic deposits in Roccamonfina and over carbonatic massifs where pedogenesis is more advanced. The distribution of pyroclastic deposits in the Campania Region was also demonstrated independently by using different balances (groups of elements). Some high Be anomaly can be interpreted as local peculiarities associated with bauxite mineralization and the presence of fault zones along which hydrothermal deposits and springs are particularly rich in Be. Finally, Be background values reflect geogenic origin and exceed the intervention limit for residential area in the vast majority of the Campania Region, hence decision-makers should take into consideration the local geological conditions when determining intervention limits.