Determination of arsenic in recreational hot water springs in sarein- ardabil region considering possible dermal exposure

Abstract

Background: Recreational and therapeutic use of geothermal waters may result in dermal uptake of inorganic arsenic. Due to the abundance of hot water springs in Sarein Ardabil region, in the present study hydrogeochemical quality of hot water springs with frequent use were evaluated. Methods: Water samples were taken according to the standard methods and were analyzed for EC, cations, anions, alkalinity and pH. Arsenic concentration was determined using Atomic Absorption Graphite Furnace (GFAA) method. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed for determination of effective factors in water quality. Results: Most of studied waters tended to acidic properties and different concentration of arsenic from 6-240 µg/l were observed in them. The highest values of arsenic were observed in Ghahveh Sooei, Sari soo, Besh Bajilar, General, Gavmish Göli and Pehenloo hot water springs, respectively. Totally, the measured arsenic values in bicarbonate-magnesium hot water springs were higher than chloride-sodium ones. According to the statistical analysis, there was a strong significant correlation between the arsenic concentration and the measured values of magnesium, total hardness and pH however, a reverse significant correlation was observed between arsenic concentrations and sulfate values. Conclusions: Currently, dermal exposure to arsenic through hot water springs in the studied area is not a major health risk. However, the arsenic contaminated effluent from the hot water springs have potential for contamination of surface water and groundwater resources and must be managed in a manner to prevent pollution of drinking water resources.