Investigation of Mercury Contamination in Vlora Bay (Albania)

摘要

Four kilometers north of coastal city Vlora is the site of a former Soda-PVC plant. During its operation (1967-1992) liquid wastes (about 500 m~3/hr) containing 1.1 mg Hg/ L were ejected directly into the sea. Very high mercury concentrations resulted in all marine sediment samples taken in 18 sites near the plant: average concentration resulted 0.314 mg/kg and maximum content was found 0.920 mg/kg. These values are much higher than the levels reported for the sediments of Southern Adriatic Sea and other Albanian areas. The concentration of total mercury in seawater samples near Soda-PVC plant resulted 0.121 mg/L, about 30 pencent higher than in two stations of Durres area. The comparison of mercury levels in mussel samples (Mytihts galloprovincialis) and in macroalgae (Chladophora sp.) taken near the former plant and in other zones evidence also the contamination of seawater. The territory of about 50 000 square meters of the former plant's soil was contaminated with mercury to a depth 1.0-1.5 meters below ground level. Most contaminated territory is Electrolysis plant: mercury average cone. 311.8 mg/kg, max. 2472 mg/kg. This area presents an unacceptable threat to the environment and to health of the people living on and around the site.