Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis of Groundwater Heavy Metal Pollution Research Based on Web of Science

Groundwater is an important part of maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and one of the main freshwater resources of human society. It has therefore attracted much attention in the field of the environment, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the research hotspots, cooperation networks and development processes in the field of groundwater heavy metal pollution remediation, and objectively reflect the scientific contributions and influences of relevant countries (regions), institutions and individuals in this field. To provide researchers with a comprehensive understanding of research trends in the field of heavy metal contamination in groundwater, this study analyzes 8147 publications from 1998 to 2024 using the Web of Science Core Collection database from the ISI Web of Knowledge. Bibliometric analysis was conducted with the data visualization tools CiteSpace and HistCite Pro. The study examines key aspects such as major research institutions, and research directions, offering insights into the application and development of groundwater heavy metal pollution remediation since 1998. The bibliometric visualization analysis of the literature in this field provides valuable insights into research directions, development trends, and emerging hotspots, offering guidance for future studies on groundwater heavy metal contamination. The analysis indicates that China and India have made significant contributions to groundwater heavy metal research. Zinc, copper, lead, and cadmium are the primary water pollutants and key research targets. However, many challenges remain in heavy metal detection, including the migration and transformation pathways of heavy metals in water bodies, interference from different matrices, and the complex chemical forms in which heavy metals exist. Future research on groundwater heavy metals will continue to focus on pollution mechanisms, source identification, risk assessment and management, bioremediation, and treatment technologies. Efforts will be made to develop technologies that enable rapid, high-precision detection and efficient heavy metal recovery.