Characterization of Chemical Parameters of The Guaraguaçu River Water, PR

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the chemical characterization of the Guraguaçú River, motivated by its significant socio-economic and environmental importance in the coastal region. Theoretical Reference: Trace elements are natural constituents present in water bodies, but in limited concentrations, and can perform both essential and toxicological functions. The presence of trace elements can be used as indicators of pollutants of anthropogenic origin that can compromise water quality. Method: The methodology adopted for this research included the collection of 40 samples along the course of the Guraguaçú River at 20 sampling points during periods of low tide. The samples were collected and the appropriate chemical extractions carried out at the Ecology and Conservation Laboratory (LABEC). The metal readings were taken at the Plant Nutrition Laboratory of the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), using the inductively coupled plasma atomic absorption spectrophotometry (ICP-AES) method. Results and Discussion: The results obtained indicated that, of the 15 chemical elements analyzed, phosphorus (P), aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), boron (B), zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) exceeded the limits established by CONAMA Resolution 357/2005. On the other hand, nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), cobalt (Co), silicon (Si), potassium (K), sodium (Na) and calcium (Ca) were found to be within the regulatory parameters. The results of this study suggest that the Guraguaçú River has concentrations of trace elements that may pose risks to human health, especially in areas adjacent to sources of anthropogenic pollution. Research Implications: Continuous monitoring is essential to mitigate adverse environmental impacts and safeguard the communities that depend on this water resource for their daily activities.