Seasonal changes of mercury speciation in the coastal sediments

• DOI: 10.1007/s11368-018-1993-4
• Publication Date: 2018-04-14T13:57:38Z
• Authors: Jacek Bełdowski; Marta Szubska; Magdalena Bełdowska; Katarzyna Jankowska; Ewa Kotlarska; Bożena Graca
• Keywords: Mercury; Genetic algorithm

Abstract Purpose Mercury speciation in sediments is linked to environmental conditions and processes. Domination of particular mercury species depends on its source, displays considerable seasonal behavior, may be further modified due oxygen levels, icing conditions, or the input fresh organic matter. The purpose this study was examine coastal area Gulf Gdańsk terms contamination influence changes speciation. Materials methods In three highly dynamic sites, studied relation other parameters (redox matter concentration, bacteria abundance, etc.). Sediment water samples were collected monthly during a 3-year study. Sequential extraction used for identification four inorganic species: dissolved, bound with fulvic humic acids, sulfide, residual fraction. Cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CV-AFS) extracts liquid sample analysis. Total measured absorption (AAS). Changes salinity analyzed by measurements chloride sulfate ion concentrations using chromatography. Bacteria number biomass direct counting epifluorescence microscopy. Results discussion Seasonal observed at all sites attributed different Labile fraction contribution varied from 0 80%. patterns locally as stations selected are diversified anthropogenic impact, dynamics, output land. fluctuated phytoplankton blooms, marine waters, precipitation, increased surface runoff local scale, global climate visible already changed comparison elder research. Conclusions Obtained results suggest that although emissions environment have decreased recent years, weather which intensified change, seriously affect bioavailability past deposits sediments.