Abstract
Concentrations of 10 trace metals were determined seasonally in the sea surface microlayer (SML) and sub-surface water (SSW) at coastal areas of the Aegean sea comprising different morphological characteristics and degrees of pollution. Metal concentrations varied broadly, specifically in the SML, being typical of coastal areas subject to intense anthropogenic pressures. The mean enrichment factors (EFs) for dissolved metals range from 1.7 (for V) to 3.6 (Zn), being lower than the corresponding calculated for suspended particulate metals ranging from 2.4 (Cd) to 17 (Cr). A statistically significant enrichment of the SML (greater than unity) was obtained for dissolved metals following the decreasing order Ζn, Cu, Mn, Pb, Fe, Co, Cr, Ni, however not for Cd and V, and in the suspended particulate matter for Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, V, Zn, Cd, Mn, while not for Fe. Surface microlayer enrichment in metals is governed by complex physicochemical and biological processes, occurring in coastal areas, among which the continuous precipitation of atmospheric particles onto the sea surface and the processes of metals dissolution and partitioning. Correlations among the trace metals examined, the sites sampled and the factor of seasonality are also discussed.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
