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  4. Heavy metal distribution in bottom sediments of the Kamyanka river (Zhytomyr Polissia): geodynamic aspect

Heavy metal distribution in bottom sediments of the Kamyanka river (Zhytomyr Polissia): geodynamic aspect

JGD.
2025;
Volume 2(39)2025, Number 2(39)
: 43-56
https://doi.org/10.23939/jgd2025.02.043
Received: July 15, 2025
Revised: October 05, 2025
Accepted: October 22, 2025
Authors:
  1. Illia Tsyhanenko-Dziubenko
  2. Hanna Kireitseva
1
Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University
2
Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University

Objective: To establish comprehensive baseline geochemical data for heavy metal distribution patterns in bottom sediments of the Kamyanka River Basin within the broader context of the Ukrainian Shield geodynamic evolution and long-term tectonic stability. This research aims to characterize the relationship between deep crustal processes spanning over 3.8 billion years of geological history and contemporary environmental geochemistry, with a specific focus on distinguishing between natural background metal concentrations derived from crustal weathering processes and potential anthropogenic contamination sources in this geodynamically stable continental platform setting. Methodology: Advanced spectrophotometric analytical techniques, including inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), were systematically employed to analyze sediment samples collected from strategically selected representative sites reflecting the full spectrum of diverse geomorphological and hydrological conditions within a geodynamically stable cratonic domain. The comprehensive sampling strategy encompassed various depositional environments ranging from headwater reaches influenced by groundwater discharge to downstream areas subject to urban runoff and agricultural inputs. Sequential extraction procedures and bioavailability assessments were integrated to evaluate metal speciation and environmental mobility. At the same time, quality control measures included certified reference materials, duplicate analyses, and blank determinations to ensure analytical reliability and environmental significance of the obtained results. Results: Pronounced dominance of iron (3,862 mg/kg) and aluminum (1,906 mg/kg) was established, reflecting characteristic aluminosilicate weathering signatures of Precambrian crystalline basement rocks typical of the Ukrainian Shield geological province. Essential trace metals, including copper (5.2 mg/kg), chromium (7.8 mg/kg), and nickel (2.5 mg/kg), were detected at natural background levels, while potentially toxic elements such as mercury, cadmium, and bismuth remained consistently below analytical detection limits. The Al/Fe ratio 0.49 indicates typical continental weathering signatures without unusual enrichment or depletion patterns. The geochemical signature corresponds to a sedimentary environment dominated by natural terrigenous input derived from stable continental weathering processes operating under conditions of prolonged geodynamic stability, with minimal anthropogenic contamination pressure reflecting the relatively stable geodynamic setting and effective environmental management within the study area. Scientific novelty: The complex relationship between Ukrainian Shield geodynamic evolution and contemporary heavy metal distribution patterns in fluvial sedimentary systems has been comprehensively characterized for the first time, establishing the critical importance of long-term tectonic stability in controlling environmental geochemistry. A novel integrated conceptual model of metal accumulation mechanisms under stable cratonic conditions has been developed, incorporating thermodynamic equilibrium relationships, surface complexation processes, and biogeochemical cycling pathways. This research demonstrates that geodynamic controls fundamentally determine metal fate and transport in hydrogeological systems, where long-term tectonic stability has allowed the development of distinctive weathering profiles and hydrogeochemical regimes that control heavy metal mobility and bioavailability in continental platform environments. Practical significance: The findings establish a robust scientific foundation for evidence-based environmental management strategies in geodynamically stable regions worldwide and provide critical baseline data for future environmental monitoring and ecological risk assessment within similar geological and climatic settings across the Ukrainian Shield region. The results support sustainable development initiatives and ecosystem protection programs within the context of ongoing urbanization processes affecting ancient crystalline shield terrains, while contributing to the development of effective environmental management strategies for regions characterized by ancient crystalline basement rocks. This research has important implications for environmental policy development and provides essential data for supporting climate adaptation and urban sustainability initiatives in continental platform settings.

river sediments
geochemical analysis
environmental assessment
Ukrainian shield
bioaccumulation
contamination
ecological monitoring
pollution
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