Description

This research line derives from the high levels of arsenic found in the waters of Tierra de Pinares, so it is aimed at finding this element's source and itinerary. In said area, more than 80 sampling points were selected, where twenty hydro-chemical variables were determined, including pH, conductivity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, arsenic, vanadium, main anions and cations, iron and manganese, among others. It was found that the arsenic (As) distribution varies widely, reaching a concentration of 385 micrograms per liter, when the maximum recommended value for drinking water is 10 micrograms per liter. This amount is also the upper tolerated limit of lead (Pb) in water intended for human consumption, as established by the European Union. The presence of Pb in public supply water is mainly due to its use within plumbing materials (welding, galvanizing, stabilizers used in PVC manufacturing). Other sources of this toxic element are the ammunition used in hunting grounds (once in the ground, the lead releases concentrations quite dangerous for the ecosystem) and the runoff waters from roadside ditches close to high traffic highways (these highly polluted waters flow directly into the surrounding rivers or seep into the aquifers). The main objective of the study is to know the quality of the water resources of Castilla y León regarding their lead levels, as well as to monitor this metal's pollution of the public supply water in order to ensure its concentration does not exceed the ceiling set by law and to avoid risks to the health of consumers. To this end, the study is developed in two key stages: - Design, building and set-up of an automatic flow analysis system for the continuous measurement of lead in water. - Lead monitoring in public supply, surface and ground waters of Castilla y León in order to assess the regional situation regarding lead water pollution.

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