Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentrations in Urban Soil of Novi Sad: Correlation Analysis and Leaching Potential

Soil samples from the urban area of Novi Sad were analyzed to determine the total concentrations of heavy metals including Cr, Pb, Cu, Zn, As, Mn, Ni, Co, Cd and Fe. In addition, leaching tests according to CEN 12457-2—Milli-Q deionized leaching procedure and ISO/TS 21268-2—CaCl2 solution leaching procedure were conducted to assess the mobility of these metals. Multivariate statistical methods, including Pearson’s correlation, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis, were applied to identify pollution sources and grouping patterns among elements. The results revealed a distinct clustering of Pb and Zn, separate from other metals, indicating their predominant origin from anthropogenic activities. Contamination Factor (CF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) were calculated to evaluate the degree of pollution. Combining total concentration, mobility, and multivariate analyses offers a more comprehensive insight into the extent and origin of pollution in the urban area of Novi Sad. The results obtained are valuable for evaluating the soil conditions in the Western Balkans, which have been recognized as a necessity by the EU.