Biochemical studies on “sub-micrometer particles” at Daya Bay I. Study on concentration, distribution and correlation of trace metals in different size fractions

Abstract

This paper discusses the measured concentrations of trace metals in different size fractions at Daya Bay, and describes the features of distribution and variation of lead, copper and cadmium there. On average, 16% of Pb, 10% of Cu and 8% of Cd which previously would have been considered in the dissolved phase are actually associated with colloidal material. Thus, past studies overestimate the dissolved trace-metal concentration. The correlation between the colloidal fraction and the so-called dissolved fraction suggests the significant role of colloidal material in the biogeochemistry of trace metals.