Effects of Atmospheric Fallout on Lead Contamination of Wheat Tissues Based on Stable Isotope Ratios

In order to trace the source of Pb pollution in wheat, the contribution ratio of soil and atmospheric fallout source was quantified based on stable isotope ratios. Results showed that the average Pb content of soil was significantly lower than that of fallout, and Pb in the fallout had a higher weak acid fraction than soil. Pb in wheat had a distinct distribution in its tissues and the content of Pb in wheat roots was significantly higher than it in shoots. The ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁷Pb ratio of soil was significantly higher than that in atmospheric fallout (p < 0.05). According to a binary mixing model, the ²⁰⁶Pb/²⁰⁷Pb ratio in wheat roots, leaves, and grains reflect 67%, 65%, and 90% of Pb content contributions from fallout, respectively. This results suggest that fallout Pb was absorbed by wheat leaves and transferred to other organs, and it is important to develop effective strategies to control fallout Pb risks.