Oriekhova O. V., Kharlamova A. V., Pavlichenko O. F.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND CHEMICAL FEATURES OF WATER IN NATURAL WATER BODIES OF THE KRYVYI RIH IRON ORE BASIN

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About the author:

Oriekhova O. V., Kharlamova A. V., Pavlichenko O. F.

Heading:

HYGIENE, ECOLOGY AND EPIDEMIOLOGY

Type of article:

Scientific article

Annotation:

Water resources of the Kryvyi Rih iron ore basin are exposed to considerable anthropogenic pressure caused by the discharge of highly mineralized mine and quarry waters, which leads to degradation of the natural water bodies. Particular attention should be paid to monitoring the chemical composition in the Inhulets, Saksahan, and Dnipro rivers, which form the regional hydrographic network and serve as important sources for economic water use. Aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the chemical composition and ecological status of surface waters within the Kryvyi Rih iron ore basin, using the Inhulets, Saksahan, and Dnipro rivers and the reservoirs of the city of Kryvyi Rih as case studies, with consideration of territorial and seasonal variations in mineralization, hardness, ionic composition, and organic pollution indicators. Data from the state monitoring of surface waters (2020-2023) and protocols of departmental laboratory observations (2000-2023) were used. The analysis was performed based on the following parameters: pH, hardness, total dissolved solids, chloride and sulfate concentrations, BOD₅, BOD₂₀, COD, dissolved oxygen, and nitrogen forms. Data processing was carried out using descriptive statistical methods, with comparisons among sampling sites and seasonal dynamics, relative to the maximum permissible concentrations (Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine No. 721, 2022). It was established that the main factor contributing to non-compliance with water quality standards is increased mineralization due to elevated concentrations of Cl⁻ and SO₄²⁻ ions, particularly in areas affected by regulated mine water discharges. Dissolved oxygen, BOD, and COD values indicate a moderate organic load, while nitrogen compounds generally comply with regulatory limits. River basins of the Inhulets and Saksahan are characterized by local areas with elevated mineralization levels, reflecting the technogenic impact of mining enterprises. Strengthening monitoring and implementing mine-water demineralization technologies are advisable to reduce ionic loading.

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Bibliography:

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Publication of the article:

«Bulletin of problems biology and medicine», 2025 Issue 4, 179, 94-105 pages, index UDC 504.5:546.3 (477.74)

DOI:

10.29254/2077-4214-2025-4-179-94-105