Abstract
In the present study, trace elements present in the river waters of Sarzhal and Akzhar region were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The reason for monitoring trace elements at those two locations is to verify water quality. The village of Sarzhal is situated in an area that has been affected by weapon testing and continues to receive inputs of contaminants (including radionuclides). The concentrations of trace elements in the river water of Sarzhal and Akzhar villages were generally found to be within allowable levels. However, the concentrations of Na 251.56 mg/l, Cr 3.26 μg/l, P 64.56 μg/l and Se 18.162 μg/l in the river of Akzhar were found to be higher than the maximum allowable concentrations (MAC). In Sarzhal, the level of Al 6.66 mg/l, Cr 5.04 μg/l and P 13.44 μg/l exceeded the MAC values.