Contamination assessment of mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic in surface sediments of Chabahar Bay

This study aimed to investigate heavy metals content of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) in surface sediments of Chabahar Bay. Sediment samples were taken from 13 stations and then analyzed. The concentration of Hg, Pb, Cd and As ranged between 0.06 and 0.14 ppm, 8 and 23 ppm, 0.05 and 0.9 ppm and 5 and 22 ppm, respectively. Arsenic content was more than ERL at some stations. Statistical analyses indicated critical importance of organic matter and mud in metal dispersion. Also, positive correlation of Al with Pb, Hg and Cd probably implies their terrestrial origination. Average enrichment factor of Hg, Pb, Cd and As were 2.67 +/- 0.95, 0.77 +/- 0.28, 6.56 +/- 9.9, and 7.53 +/- 3.44, respectively. Most stations were classified as moderately polluted and non-polluted sites.