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Method for analysis of environmental lead contamination in soils
Chloe A Beardsley1, Kai Z Fuller1, Thomas H Reilly1
1Access Sensor Technologies LLC, 320 E. Vine Dr. STE 221, Fort Collins, CO 80524, USA. chloe.beardsley@colostate.edu.
The Analyst
|November 22, 2021
Summary
A new, cost-effective electrochemical method allows for on-site lead (Pb) detection in soils. This technique simplifies sample preparation and analysis, making regular environmental screening for this dangerous pollutant more accessible.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Electrochemistry
Background:
- Lead (Pb) is a pervasive soil pollutant with significant public health implications.
- Existing heavy metal detection methods are often costly, require specialized training, and are unsuitable for field use.
- On-site soil lead monitoring is crucial for environmental health and risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a safe, user-friendly, and on-site method for detecting lead in soil.
- To provide an accessible alternative to traditional laboratory-based heavy metal analysis.
- To enable routine environmental screening of lead contamination in soils.
Main Methods:
- A novel sample preparation technique combined with electrochemical analysis.
- Utilizing a stencil-printed carbon electrode and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry for lead quantification.
- pH adjustment of soil extracts prior to electrochemical analysis.
Main Results:
- The developed electrochemical method achieved a limit of detection of 16 ppb for lead.
- This detection limit is significantly lower than the EPA's action limit of 400 mg kg⁻¹ (4000 ppb).
- Results were validated against inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy, showing an average agreement within ±17%.
Conclusions:
- The described method offers a practical and sensitive approach for on-site lead detection in soils.
- Minimal training requirements make this technique suitable for widespread environmental screening.
- This innovation facilitates more frequent and accessible monitoring of lead contamination, enhancing public health protection.
