ECOLOGICAL RISKS OF CHROMIUM CONTAMINATION IN UKRAINIAN SOILS AFFECTED BY MILITARY ACTIVITY: SEM-EDS AND EPMA ANALYSIS
The contamination of soil with heavy metals as a result of military activity presents a significant and multifaceted environmental challenge. Chromium, in particular, is introduced into the environment through various military-related processes, such as the use of ammunition, explosives, fuels, and other military equipment. Once released, chromium can persist in the environment, especially in soil, where it exists primarily in two oxidation states: trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)).