Evaluation of heavy metals concentration (cadmium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead and zinc) in sediments of Zayandehrood River

Emission of pollutants caused by natural and human activities on the environment is one of the most important issues in today's society. This study was based on laboratory studies, field and review of the literature. The aim of this study to determine the concentration of heavy metals (cadmium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead and zinc) in the sediment of Zayandehrood river sediments and comparing them at different stations and various seasons from early October 2014 until late September 2015.
ICP-AES techniques were used to determine the concentrations of heavy metals by atomic absorption spectrophotometer and then the emissions of metals evaluated with statistical software and Mueller indicator. Zayanderood basin is located in 50° 2´ to 53° 24´ east longitude and 31° 12´ to 33° 42´ north latitude.
The results showed high levels of cadmium concentration in Vahid Bridge station in the summer with the amount of 0.0081 ± 0.95, milligrams per kilogram of dry weight that is higher than Canada and New York sediment quality standard.
The results showed high levels of cadmium and further concentration of global standards for electroplating industry and agricultural activities in upstream stations. High levels of manganese and lead in Chum Bridge and Varzaneh are related to agricultural activities mainly. Generally, Vahid Bridge station has more unsuitable situation than the other stations.