Tempo-spatial distribution and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in surface sediments of Daya Bay during 2010−2018

In order to understand the tempo-spatial distribution characteristics and potential ecological risks of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Zn) contents in the surface sediments of Daya Bay from 2010 to 2018, we collected and analyzed the surface sediments in Daya Bay in that period. The results show that the Cu, Pb and Zn contents in the surface sediments had been relatively stable in the past ten years without a significant increase. The spatial distribution of the three heavy metals was roughly the same with the high-value areas in the district from Aotou to the petrochemical area. The Cu, Pb and Zn presented a significant homology, mainly coming from coastal industrial enterprises and marine aquaculture in Aotou area. Their pollution degree showed a descending trend of Zn>Cu>Pb, and the overall potential ecological risk was slight.