Background Values of 32 Elements in Dutch Topsoils, Determined with Non-Destructive Neutron Activation Analysis

The ranges of background values of 32 elements in Dutch topsoils (0–10 cm) are presented. For this purpose soil samples were collected in 28 nature reserves. The samples were analysed by means of neutron activation. Considerable differences in element concentrations may occur between the sampled areas. For the majority of the analysed elements a significant linear relationship exists between background values and clay contents. For part of the elements studied, the ranges of background values are in agreement with ranges reported for soils in other countries, but for certain elements distinct differences are observed. The concentrations of some elements in clay soils exceed proposed maximally tolerable concentrations for farming land. With the performed analysis a good insight could be obtained into the background values of many elements in soils. For the elements Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni and Pb another analytical procedure should be used.