Iron

formula: Fe; CAS Registry Number: 7439-89-6

Naturally occurring transition metal

Iron is a widespread metal which is used by man in numerous applications. Most important is its role in iron and metal working industries but it is also used in chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

For animals, plants and most bacteria iron is an essential trace element. Plants and animals are thus capable of regulating their body concentrations to avoid iron deficiency.

To animals and plants iron is only slightly toxic. Since it is regulated by organisms, its bioaccumulation potential is low.

Recommended analysis examples

Specimen

  • Fine insoluble mineral or organic particles in the water phase
  • Common brown alga of the coastal areas of the North and Baltic Sea
  • A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.
  • A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.
  • A deciduous tree typical of ecosystems close to dense conurbations and an indicator for the characterisation of the immission situation during the vegetation period.
  • As the most dominant deciduous tree species in Central Europe, it plays a significant role in most nearly natural and also anthropogenically influenced forest ecosystems up to an altitude of 1100 m.
  • Soil is livelihood and biosphere for humans, animals, plants and soil organisms. All the substances brought in are transported, transformed and/or accumulated in the soil.

Sampling area

Sampling period

1985 - 2023