Heavy metal determination in environmental samples

Heavy metals can be listed as the transition metals, some metalloids, lanthanides and actinides [1, 2]. Mostly heavy metals, metalloids and their compounds have been associated with contamination and potential toxicity or ecotoxicity. Lots of references and associations have not made any exact definition for heavy metals. Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR) defines heavy metals as a metallic chemically element which is of a relatively high density and toxic or poisonous at low concentrations [3]. The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has listed common heavy metals, which are the main source of pollution, especially in the environment as; As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn. Also Ag, Al, Au, Be, Bi, Co, Fe, Hg, Mn, Pt, Se, Sn, Tl, U and V cause health issues and should be treated carefully [4]. The main sources of heavy metals can be listed as industrial processes, mining, medicine, textile, glass and ceramic industries, dying, agriculture and medical processes and, and so on. In Table 13.1, some of the heavy metals and their related health effects are given [4-10].