![Theses and Dissertations](../../assets/md5images/007ba8c2f9f7b20b26ed4b229bc29542.jpg)
Theses and Dissertations
Issuing Body
Mississippi State University
Advisor
Paul, Varun G.
Committee Member
Haney, Christa
Committee Member
Ezell, John
Date of Degree
8-8-2023
Document Type
Graduate Thesis - Open Access
Major
Environmental Geoscience
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.)
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Department of Geosciences
Abstract
Trace element sediment pollution due to coal power plants have been reported in many countries. In this study, pond sediment samples collected from locations around a coal fired power plant in Ackerman, MS, were evaluated for their trace element concentration and pollution status. The samples were collected at two depths to study changes in element accumulation over time. The samples were digested and the elements, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Hg, and Zn were analyzed using ICP-MS. Results were then compared to known background concentrations as well as sediment quality guidelines and pollution thresholds. The sample locations downwind of the facility had the highest average trace element concentrations, indicating that wind is a primary driver in trace element transportation. With the potential for bioaccumulation and prevalent agricultural activity in the surrounding area, it could eventually affect humans in a negative manner and result in adverse health outcomes for nearby residents.
Recommended Citation
Bills, Charles, "Trace metal analysis of pond sediments to measure deposition from a coal-fired power plant in Ackerman Mississippi" (2023). Theses and Dissertations. 5897.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/5897
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