spatial Analysis of Heavy Metal Pollution in Soils Surrounding Fuel Filling Stations in Al-Anbar Governorate

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the spatial distribution of soil contamination by heavy metals at fuel filling stations and oil storage facilities in Al-Anbar Province, with a focus on assessing associated environmental and public health impacts. A total of 311 soil samples were collected from 43 fuel stations and analyzed using advanced techniques, including Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). In addition, pollution indices such as the Contamination Factor (CF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) were applied.

The results revealed that concentrations of certain heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), exceeded internationally permissible limits. Cadmium exhibited very high contamination levels (CF > 6) across all study sites, while lead showed high contamination levels (CF ranging between 3 and 6). In contrast, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) remained within acceptable limits and indicated low contamination levels.

The Pollution Load Index (PLI) indicated that most sites ranged from unpolluted to moderately polluted, with higher contamination levels observed in specific areas such as Amiriyat Al-Sumoud and Al-Karma. The Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) confirmed moderate to high contamination by cadmium and moderate contamination by lead, while other elements showed negligible contamination.

The findings suggest that contamination is primarily associated with petroleum-related activities, fuel combustion, and, to a lesser extent, natural factors. This poses potential environmental and health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations. The study recommends improving fuel storage and transportation systems and strengthening environmental monitoring programs to mitigate heavy metal accumulation and protect public health.