Abstract

DIAZ RIZO, Oscar et al. Assessment of heavy metal content in peloids from some Cuban spas using X-ray fluorescence. Nucleus [online]. 2017, n.61, pp.1-5. ISSN 0864-084X.

Heavy metal (Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb) content in muds from some Cuban spas (San Diego, Elguea, Santa Lucía and Cajío) have been studied using X-ray fluorescence. The measured metal contents are in the same order of magnitude as those reported for average Earth’s upper crust average shales and muds as well as with worldwide reported peloids. The comparison with sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) shows a different degree of pollution for peloids from each studied spa. Nevertheless, the estimated sum of metal/probable effect level value ratios (0.9 - 2.4) correspond to a low potential acute toxicity of contaminants. Therefore, the heavy metal content present in peloids from the studied Cuban spas is not an obstacle for its use with therapeutic purposes

Keywords : sediment; x-ray fluorescence analysis; heavy metals; Cuba; therapeutic uses.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in English     · English ( pdf )