Evaluation of the BCR sequential extraction procedure applied for two unpolluted Spanish soils

The procedure of BCR sequential extraction has been applied to five samples from two unpolluted soils in southern Spain. Total concentrations of different elements have been calculated as the sum of the three fractions of BCR and the residue has been measured for each. Also, a total analysis based on INAA or total-digestion techniques has been performed for the same samples. BCR and total analysis closely agreed for As, Pb and Cd. For Cu, Co, Cr and Zn the comparison of the results did not provide definitive conclusions concerning the capability of BCR in measuring total concentrations. On the other hand, in these cases, a certain correlation was found between the concentrations measured and some soil characteristics, especially the clay, organic-matter and CaCO3 contents. BCR proved incapable of providing accurate measurements for Ni.