The ability to filter heavy metals of lead, copper and zinc in some species of tree and shrub

Abstract

Heavy metals found in urban air with its toxic effects have a direct impact on human health. Selection of appropriate tree species and shrub refining capacity of heavy metals in urban areas can greatly reduce the toxic effects of these materials. This study aimed to identify the most suitable tree and shrub species of broadleaf evergreen, deciduous and coniferous refinement of heavy metals lead, copper and zinc in the air in both units and total leaf weight. 12 species of tree and shrub leaves in City Park in Gorgan in summer (August 2010) was sampled. Heavy elements present in the samples were prepared and measured by atomic absorption instrument. The results showed that the performance of the trees in comparison to shrubs refinement of heavy metals lead, copper and zinc were more appropriate. Among the species present for purification of Pb and Zn, refine Shiraz, Magnolia and Cypress Pine copper refinery in Shiraz were the best and Tehran and Palvnya had the best performance for copper.