Magnetic, geochemical and pedological characterisation of soil profiles from different environments and geological backgrounds near Coimbra, Portugal

Abstract This study presents an application of environmental magnetism techniques for the characterisation of the soils near Coimbra (central Portugal). Magnetic measurements, scanning electron microscopy and geochemical studies were carried out on samples collected in 6 soil profiles in order to find possible relationships and to interpret environmental implications. Magnetic susceptibility, saturation isothermal remanent magnetisation and isothermal remanent magnetisation at the backfield of 100 mT and 300 mT were measured. HardIRM %, SIRM/χ and S-ratios were also calculated. Polluted soils showed higher values of magnetic parameters in the superficial soil horizons closer to the roads, plants and urban areas. The lowest values were observed in the deeper horizons of the soil and in the areas least disturbed by human activity. The magnetic results also suggested that the magnetic signal of these soils is mainly influenced by ferrimagnetic magnetite-like minerals and with only a minor contribution from antiferromagnetic carriers (such as hematite minerals). In unpolluted soils, lithogenic contribution is reflected by the enhancement of magnetic susceptibility near parental rock material. Scanning electron microscope images of the topsoil samples revealed the presence of magnetic spherules typical of vehicular exhaust and combustion processes. This evidence suggests that the atmospheric deposition of fly ash is the main reason for the enhancement of the magnetic signal in the topsoil. Chemical analyses showed that the concentration of various heavy metals was higher than the mean background values for Portuguese soils, and higher in superficial soils. Heavy metals showed significant positive correlation with magnetic properties. The conclusions highlight the importance of using environmental magnetism methods and techniques in the evaluation process of soil evolution and pollution history throughout time.