Heavy Metal Analysis in soil samples of Some Villages Near Uranium Corporation of India Limited Thummalapalle using Wavelength-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry.

The aim of the present study focuses on identify of heavy metal distribution in soils collected from the surrounding areas of Uranium Corporation of India, UCIL, Thummalapalle, Pulivendula, Andhra Pradesh. Soil samples were collected from a depth of 0-30 cm and were analyzed for trace metals such as Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sr, V,Y, Zn , Zr and major oxides such as SiO2, AlO3, Fe2O3, MnO, MgO, CaO, Na2O, K2O, TiO2 and P2O5 by using Philips PW 2440 X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF). Among the 14 heavy metals detected in the soils of the study area, only Ni, Sr, Zn, Zr and Rb are within the permissible limits. The increased levels of Ba, As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mo, Pb. V and Y in the study area are a major concern for the suitability in agricultural and other land management practices. However, systematic and continuous monitoring of the study area for the increased levels of heavy metals are necessary, these elements may enter the food chain and may be hazardous to human health.