Distribution of Heavy Metal Pollutant Pollution Pb, Cu, and Fe in the Muara Bangkahulu River Area, Bengkulu City

Description

This dataset presents the concentrations of heavy metal pollutants, including Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe), measured in the Muara Bangkahulu River area, Bengkulu City. Data collection was carried out using the Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) method, which ensures precise quantification of these metals in both water and sediment samples. While geographic coordinates of the sampling sites are not included, the dataset emphasizes concentration levels (expressed in mg/L or ppm). Supplementary details include the sampling dates, types of metals analyzed, and relevant statistical summaries.

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This study was conducted along the Muara Bangkahulu River in Bengkulu City, Indonesia, to assess heavy metal contamination in river sediments. Sampling points were selected based on human activity density, including rice fields, the wood carving industry, and residential areas, to understand contamination levels across different areas. River Sediment Sampling Sediment sampling was conducted at ten points along the river, spaced 3-5 km apart. At each point, samples were taken at a depth of 5-10 cm below the surface using grab sampling to avoid surface sedimentation influence. The samples were stored in sterilized 10 mL bottles, sealed to prevent contamination, and kept at room temperature before analysis. Analysis of Heavy Metals Using AAS The concentrations of Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe) in sediment samples were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Sample Preparation Samples were prepared following the Maharani method (2024). Each sediment sample (40 g) was weighed using a high-precision Ohaus PX 225D balance, dried at 60°C for 24 hours using a UN 55 oven, and ground with a mortar and pestle. The dried samples were sieved using a 150 μm sieve to achieve uniform particle size. Extraction Procedure Heavy metals were extracted using the aqua regia method (Tighe et al., 2004; Aquisman et al., 2019), which involves a 3:1 mixture of nitric acid (HNO₃) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Two to four grams of the sample were treated with 20 mL of acid and heated on an IKA C-MAG HS 7 hotplate at 250°C for 3-4 hours until only 5-10 mL remained. The mixture was filtered using Whatman paper, transferred to a 50 mL flask, and diluted with distilled water to the calibration mark. Heavy Metal Analysis (Pb, Cu, Fe) Standard solutions of Pb, Cu, and Fe were prepared for calibration with concentrations ranging from 0.1-0.5 ppm (Pb), 0.15-0.45 ppm (Cu), and 1.0-14.0 ppm (Fe). A stock solution of 1000 ppm for each metal was diluted with HNO₃ and used to generate a calibration curve. This curve ensured accurate instrument performance and reliable concentration measurements for the sediment samples. The AAS instrument response was calculated using the calibration curve, which verified the accuracy of the heavy metal concentration analysis. This study provides valuable insights into heavy metal contamination in the Muara Bangkahulu River, which could inform environmental monitoring and pollution mitigation strategies.

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