Geochemistry of Dredged Sediments and Pollutant Impacts of Heavy Metals from New Damietta Harbor, Egypt, using X-ray Fluorescence spectrometry

Heavy metals comprise a diverse group of elements that vary in their chemical properties and biological functions. Typically classified as transition elements in the Periodic Table, heavy metals are defined as elements with a specific gravity exceeding 5 g/cm³. These metals are predominantly found in soil and aquatic environments, while their presence in the atmosphere is relatively limited, occurring mainly as particulates or vapours. In this study, ten dredged sediment samples were collected from New Damietta Harbour, Egypt, and analysed for trace and heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn, Zr, Ga, Sr, Y, V, Nb, Pb, and Ba) using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. Geochemical indices, including the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (Cf), and pollution load index (PLI), were applied to assess the extent of contamination and identify potential sources. The results revealed that most metals were present at concentrations below shale and crustal background levels, suggesting low to moderate contamination. However, zirconium (Zr) showed elevated concentrations exceeding the average shale. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated positive associations between several metals, reflecting mixed lithogenic and anthropogenic origins. The calculated PLI values ranged from 1.97 to 3.82, classifying the sediments as moderately to highly pollute. This study provides a comprehensive geochemical baseline for New Damietta Harbor and highlights the importance of regular monitoring programs to prevent potential ecological impacts and to guide future environmental management efforts.