Distribution characteristics and source analysis of heavy metals in a typical reclamation area along Jiangsu coast, China

90 samples of surface soils from Tiaozini reclamation area along Jiangsu coast were tested for the contents of heavy metals.Based on the results, the distribution characteristics was analyzed, correlation analysis and principal component analysis were applied to estimate the sources of heavy metals.The contamination status of heavy metals was evaluated by using geoaccumulation index.The results showed that the order of average contents of heavy metals was Cr > Zn > Ni > Cu > Pb > As > Cd > Hg.The content was relatively higher in the Liangduo River estuary, and was relatively lower in tidal flat used for freshwater aquaculture.The quality of soils was generally good and in a non-polluted condition, because 88 samples were belong to the first grade soil and the average geoaccumulation index of heavy metals was less than zero.The heavy metals were mainly from natural source, and Cr, Cd, Pb were partly contaminated by human activities.