The concentration distribution and biohazard assessment of heavy metal elements in surface sediments from the continental shelf of Hainan Island

The level of heavy metals (Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) and Al2O3 were quantified in 140 surface sediment samples from the continental shelf of Hainan Island (CSHI). The mean heavy metal concentration in the decreasing order was: Cr > Zn > Pb > Ni > Cu > Co. Although heavy metals were locally enriched in the CSHI, the overall pollution level was relatively low. The biohazard assessment results of the mean effects range-median quotient (M-ERM-Q) and hazard quotient (HQ) for a single metal element (Cu, Pb, Zn) in the surface sediments showed that the exposure to individual heavy metals posed a low health risk. However, the biohazard assessment of multiple metals was higher than the single metals. Particular attention should be paid to the potential biological hazard from Cr and Ni in the CSHI.

Automated summary

The study analyzed the levels of heavy metals in surface sediment samples from the continental shelf of Hainan Island, showing a relatively low overall pollution level despite local enrichment. Exposure to individual heavy metals posed a low health risk, but the biohazard assessment of multiple metals was higher. Particular attention should be paid to the potential biological hazard from Cr and Ni in the study area.