Sediment Interstitial Water Research Articles

Piped-slow-release calcium nitrate dosing: A new approach to in-situ sediment odor control in rural areas

Calcium nitrate addition is economically viable and highly efficient for the in-situ treatment of contaminated sediment and enhancement of surface water quality, particularly in rural areas. However, conventional nitrate addition technologies have disadvantages such as excessive nitrate release, sharp ammonium increase, and weakened sulfide oxidation efficiency owing to rapid nitrate injection into the sediment. To resolve these defects, we propose a piped-slow-release (PSR) calcium nitrate dosing method and investigate its treatment efficiency and underlying mechanisms. The results illustrated that PSR dosing had a longer half-life (t1/2 = 5.08 days) and a lower maximum apparent nitrate escape rate of 1.28 % than conventional nitrate injection and other dosing methods. In addition, the PSR managed the inorganic nitrogen release into the overlying water, and after the treatment, the nitrate, ammonium, and nitrite concentrations of 0 mg/L, 8.60 mg/L, and 0 mg/L on day 28 were close to those of the control group (0 mg/L, 8.76 mg/L, and 0 mg/L, respectively). Moreover, the PSR method maintained a moderate nitrate concentration of approximately 3000 mg/L in sediment interstitial water by its controlled-release design, thus greatly enhancing the sulfide oxidation efficiency by relieving the inhibitory effects of high nitrate concentrations, with 83.0 % sulfide being eradicated within 5 days. Sulfide-ferrous nitrate reduction (denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium) genera (e.g., Sulfurimonas, Thiobacillus, and Thioalkalispira) were successively enhanced and dominated the microbial community, and the related functional genes displayed high relative abundances. These results imply that the PSR dosing method for calcium nitrate, characterized by flexible operation, high efficiency, low cost, and controllable processes, is appropriate for remediating black-odorous sediment in rural areas.

Sedimentary environment and benthic oxygenation history of the Upper Cretaceous Austin Chalk Group, south Texas: An integrated ichnological, sedimentological and geochemical approach

ABSTRACTOxygen concentration in the ocean is vital for sustaining marine ecosystems. While the potential impacts of deoxygenation on modern oceans are hard to predict, lessons can be learned from better characterizing past geological intervals formed under a greenhouse climate. The greenhouse Cretaceous containing several oceanic anoxic events characterized by widespread oxygen‐deficient water is ideal in this regard. The Austin Chalk Group in south Texas (USA) shows organic‐rich intervals that can be linked to oxygen depletion in the ocean, but the exact bottom water oxygenation conditions have not been estimated. This study aims to reconstruct both sediment interstitial and bottom water oxygenation history during Austin Chalk Group deposition by integrating detailed ichnological, sedimentological and geochemical (X‐ray fluorescence and X‐ray diffraction) analyses, thereby providing a consistent model that may be applicable across a range of marine shelf settings. The 141.12 m Gise #1 core contains a continuous record of the Austin Chalk Group, providing an opportunity for unravelling oxygenation and deoxygenation events. Whereas the anaerobic–exaerobic deposits are essentially nonbioturbated, four oxygen‐related ichnocoenoses are defined, further refining the transition of aerobic to dysaerobic conditions in the sediment interstitial water. Omission surfaces and glauconitic grains, products of current‐induced scouring and condensation, suggest sporadic high‐energy events in the Austin Chalk Group ramp that drove elevated terrestrial inputs. Geochemical data further help to identify anoxic bottom water conditions within the anaerobic facies. Additionally, the lowermost part of the Austin Chalk Group illustrates redox cycles, whereas dilution events characterized by elevated terrestrial input are identified throughout the rest of the Austin Chalk Group. The evolution of oxygenation levels in sediment interstitial water and bottom water disputes the existence of a long‐lasting oxygen‐deficient sea in south Texas. The refined depositional model may be applicable to coeval shelfal settings. Moreover, the results provide insights into variable, evolving palaeoclimatic and palaeoceanographic conditions of the greenhouse Late Cretaceous.

Quantitative thermodynamic exposure assessment of PCBs available to sandworms (Alitta virens) in activated carbon remediated sediment during ongoing sediment deposition.

Marine mesoscale studies with sandworms (Alitta virens) were conducted to isolate important processes governing the exposure and bioaccumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at contaminated sediment sites. Ex situ equilibrium sampling with silicone-coated jars, and in situ passive sampling with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were used to determine the performance of an activated carbon (AC) amendment remedy applied to the bed sediment. A quantitative thermodynamic exposure assessment ('QTEA') was performed, showing that PCB concentrations in polymers at equilibrium with the surficial sediment were suited to measure and assess the remedy effectiveness with regard to PCB bioaccumulation in worms. In practice, monitoring the performance of sediment remedies should utilize a consistent and predictive form of polymeric sampling of the sediment. The present study found that ex situ equilibrium sampling of the surficial sediment was the most useful for understanding changes in bioaccumulation potential as a result of the applied remedy, during bioturbation and ongoing sediment and contaminant influx processes. The ultrathin silicone coatings of the ex situ sampling provided fast equilibration of PCBs between the sediment interstitial water and the polymer, and the multiple coating thicknesses were applied to confirm equilibrium and the absence of surface sorption artifacts. Overall, ex situ equilibrium sampling of surficial sediment could fit into existing frameworks as a robust and cost-effective tool for contaminated sediment site assessment.

Influencing Factors and Nutrient Release from Sediments in the Water Level Fluctuation Zone of Biliuhe Reservoir, a Drinking Water Reservoir

Significant amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in sediments will be released into the overlying water during the flood season in the water level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of reservoirs that undergo periodic drying and flooding. This will result in water quality deterioration of the reservoir. In order to clarify the distribution characteristics and release behavior of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from sediments in the WLFZ of a reservoir, this study analyzed the sediment distribution characteristics and potential exchange flux sediment–water interface(SWI) through field investigations and sediment core incubation experiments. And the main factors affecting the release of N and P through the incubation experiments in sediments of the WLFZ in the reservoir were determined. Our findings indicated that the sediment in the WLFZ serves as the primary source of NH4+-N and acts as a sink for NO2-N in the overlying water of sediment. The concentration of NH4+-N in the interstitial water of sediments is the key factor that affects the water quality of Biliuhe Reservoir. Total nitrogen content of surface sediments in the WLFZ of Biliuhe Reservoir ranges from 1052.52 ± 49.39 to 3520.54 ± 30.31 mg/kg. High concentrations of N pollution are the primary increased risk of eutrophication in Biliuhe Reservoir during summer. The sediment N and P release flux of BLH1 located in the main stream is 1.67 ± 1.06 and 12.32 ± 2.42 mg·(m2·d)−1, respectively, which is smaller than that of BLH2 (3.27 ± 2.15 and 15.19 ± 2.36 mg·(m2·d)−1, respectively), BLH3 (4.24 ± 1.74 and 17.02 ± 2.47 mg·(m2·d)−1, respectively) and BLH4 (7.78 ± 2.03 and 20.56 ± 2.38 mg·(m2·d)−1, respectively) located in the tributary. It indicates that the water conveyance project located in BLH1 has an impact on nutrient scouring of sediments in the WLFZ at this site. The main water environment factor affecting the release of N and P in the sediment of the WLFZ is dissolved oxygen (DO). And the Pearson correlation coefficients between TN and TP with DO were −0.838 and −0.777, respectively (p < 0.05). At the same time, the diffusion of nutrients in the sediments can be effectively inhibited by maintaining a certain DO concentration in the overlying water.

Earthquake-enhanced dissolved carbon cycles in ultra-deep ocean sediments

Hadal trenches are unique geological and ecological systems located along subduction zones. Earthquake-triggered turbidites act as efficient transport pathways of organic carbon (OC), yet remineralization and transformation of OC in these systems are not comprehensively understood. Here we measure concentrations and stable- and radiocarbon isotope signatures of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC, DIC) in the subsurface sediment interstitial water along the Japan Trench axis collected during the IODP Expedition 386. We find accumulation and aging of DOC and DIC in the subsurface sediments, which we interpret as enhanced production of labile dissolved carbon owing to earthquake-triggered turbidites, which supports intensive microbial methanogenesis in the trench sediments. The residual dissolved carbon accumulates in deep subsurface sediments and may continue to fuel the deep biosphere. Tectonic events can therefore enhance carbon accumulation and stimulate carbon transformation in plate convergent trench systems, which may accelerate carbon export into the subduction zones.

Characterization of nitrogen and phosphorus at the ice-water-sediment interface and the effect of their migration on overlying water quality in Daihai Lake (China) during the freezing period

Approximately one-third of the year, Daihai Lake experiences freezing conditions. During this period, the primary mechanisms that impact the quality of the lake water quality include the freezing of nutrients by the ice sheet and the migration of nutrients between the ice, water, and sediment. The present investigation involved the collection of samples of ice, water, and sediment, followed by the utilization of the thin film gradient diffusion (DGT) technique to and explore the distribution and migration of diverse nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) forms at the interface of ice, water and sediment. The findings indicate that the freezing process led to the precipitation of ice crystals, which in turn caused the migration of a significant proportion (28–64 %) of nutrients to the subglacial water. The predominant constituents of N and P in subglacial water, were NO3−-N and PO43−-P, which constituted 62.5–72.5 % of total N (TN) and 53.7–69.4 % of total P(TP). Respectively, with increasing depth, the TN and TP of sediment interstitial water increased. The sediment in the lake acted as a source of PO43−-P and NO3−-N while acting as a sink or NH4+-N. Soluble reactive P (SRP) flux and NO3−-N flux were responsible for 76.5 % and 2.5 % of the P and N present in the overlying water. Additionally, it was observed that 60.5 % of the NH4+-N flux in the overlying water was absorbed and subsequently deposited in the sediment. The presence of soluble and active P in the ice sheet could play a crucial role in the regulation of sediment release of both SRP and NH4+-N. Additionally, the presence of high nutritional salts and the concentration of nitrate nitrogen in the overlying water would certainly increase the pressure of the water environment. Endogenous contamination must be urgently controlled.

Toxicity of sediments in eight urban stormwater management ponds: bioassessment by oligochaete community metrics used in the sediment quality triad.

Implemented for decades as part of the 'best management practices (BMPs)' for controlling urban runoff impacts on receiving waters, stormwater management ponds (SMPs) have been increasingly viewed as potential habitats for urban wildlife. However, since SMPs are subject to a lot of environmental constraints, research toward assessing their ecological quality and their actual benefits as habitats for biota is needed. In this study, the sediment toxicity of eight SMPs located in Southern Ontario, Canada was assessed using the sediment quality triad (SQT) approach. Sediment samples were collected for chemical, ecotoxicological and biological analyses. An oligochaete-based index approach (Oligochaete Index of Lake Bioindication and percentage of pollution-sensitive species) was used as the biological endpoint and integrated into a weight-of-evidence approach to assessing the general sediment quality of the ponds. Our results showed that (i) heavy metals in the sediment and (ii) chloride concentrations in the sediment interstitial water caused detrimental effects on the ecological quality of the sediments in the ponds studied. The oligochaete indices applied in this study showed value as biological endpoints to be integrated into the SQT and used for setting up sediment ecological quality goals.

Assessment of sediment porewater toxicity in Biscayne National Park with sea urchin (Lytechinus variegatus) embryos.

The sea urchin embryo development toxicity test was used to investigate toxicity of the benthic substrate in Biscayne National Park (BISC). Twenty-five sites were selected based upon a high potential for anthropogenic stressor input (e. g., hydrocarbons, personal care products, nutrients, etc.) or proximity to coral reef habitats. We found that sediment interstitial water (porewater) was toxic to urchin embryos at 22 of 25 sites. Healthy sites included two coral reefs (Anniversary Reef and Marker 14 Reef) and Turkey Point Channel. Discrete areas of BISC have highly toxic sediments and the presence of sediment contaminants could negatively impact reproduction, growth and population density of benthic invertebrates, such as corals. Results of the sea urchin embryo development toxicity test can be used as a baseline assessment for monitoring improvements or degradation in ecosystem health and could be a valuable tool to investigate the suitability of degraded habitats for future reef restoration. Since the last comprehensive environmental assessment of BISC was performed in 1999, further investigation into the sources of toxicity at BISC is needed.

Distribution and diffusion thermodynamic characteristics of phosphorus at the interface between river sediment and water under the influence of artificial disturbance

Abstract Artificial disturbance affects the migration of phosphorus (P) at the interface between river sediments and water. In the present research, we sampled three sections of the Yitong River in Changchun City, China, in order to obtain representative samples of city, town, and rural reaches. Overlying water and sediment samples were obtained in September 2021 during the dry period. In our experiments, we determined the distribution of different forms of P, diffusion flux of P at the interface, as well as P adsorption parameters. The results showed that concentrations of four P species in the sediments followed the order: Ca-P > Fe-P > Acid extracted phosphorus > Alkali extracted phosphorus. The diffusion flux of -P in each reach was positive, showing that sediments were an important P source for the overlying water. The -P content in the interstitial water of sediments was significantly correlated with that in the overlying water. This indicated that P diffused into the overlying water in the form of -P under most circumstances. The adsorption parameters gradually decreased from upstream to downstream. These data indicated that potential for phosphorus release from downstream sediments was higher than that from upstream sediments. This likely occurred because, downstream, a greater artificial disturbance intensity is observed.

Physi-chemical mechanism and control effect of CaO2 inhibiting phosphorus release from sediments under different dosing modes

CaO2 is known as an outstanding restoration agent to control phosphorus (P) release from sediments, and its mechanism is believed to depend on chemical passivation. However, we found that the physical actions might also be involved in inhibiting endogenous P release induced by CaO2. To further explore the mechanism of CaO2 controlling P release and optimize the dosing method, a 94-day incubation experiment was conducted under different CaO2 dosing modes. The results showed that CaO2 could form a dense passivation layer near its dosing position by reducing the median diameter of sediments, thereby inhibiting P release through physical obstruction. At the same time, the increase in the specific surface area and Ca content of sediments induced by CaO2 could synchronously enhance the physical and chemical adsorption properties of sediments to P. In addition, CaO2 could significantly reduce the P concentration in sediment interstitial water and the mobile−P and BAP contents in sediments through chemical oxidation and chemical precipitation. Under the combined actions of physical obstruction, physi-chemical adsorption, chemical oxidation, and chemical precipitation, CaO2 effectively inhibited endogenous P release. Finally, the P release flux in each reactor showed that multiple coverage and shallow injection had the optimal effect on inhibiting P release, and the former is recommended for the water systems with shallow sediments, and the latter is suitable for the water systems with deep sediments. In general, this experiment proposed the physi-chemical mechanism of P immobilization mediated by CaO2, studied the formation characteristics of the passivation layer, and optimized the dosing mode, which can provide valuable reference for the research and application of CaO2 controlling P release.

Occurrence and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals from Wuliangsuhai Lake, Yellow River Basin, China

As one of the eight largest freshwater lakes in China, Wuliangsuhai Lake is an extremely rare large lake with biodiversity and environmental protection functions in one of the world’s arid or semi-arid areas and it plays a pivotal role in protecting the ecological security of the Yellow River Basin. Heavy metals in sediment interstitial water, surface sediments, and sediment cores of Wuliangsuhai Lake were investigated and analyzed, and the pollution degree evaluated based on multiple assessment methods. The bioavailability of heavy metals of the surface sediments was evaluated by calculating the ratio of chemical fractions of heavy metals. The toxicity assessment of sediment interstitial water indicated that Ni, Zn, As, and Cd would not be toxic to aquatic ecosystems, however, Hg and Cr in some regions may cause acute toxicity to the benthos. The ecological assessment results of the surface sediments indicated that some areas of the lake are heavily polluted and the main polluting elements are Cd and Hg. Cd has the highest bioavailability because of its high exchangeable fraction ratio. In addition, exogenous pollution accumulated within 20 cm of the sediment cores, and then, with the increasing of the depth, the pollution degree and ecological risk decreased.

Comparative analysis of four universal estimation methods of nitrogen and phosphorus fluxes in lake sediments

湖泊沉积物-水界面营养盐释放是研究湖泊环境行为的重点关注对象，但目前对于湖泊通量的估算方法选择缺乏横向定量比较.以南京莫愁湖为研究对象，在冬春夏3季采用静态释放培养法、机械搅拌培养法、流动培养法和间隙水浓度扩散模型法4种常见的湖泊通量培养方法进行氮磷释放对比实验.结果表明，非扩散模型法（静态释放、机械搅拌、流动培养）在冬季存在负通量，随着气温升高，夏季通量估算值为正，且该3种方法通量数值差异不显著.间隙水扩散模型法在三季实验中结果数值无负值，对比非扩散模型组具有显著差异，约低一个数量级.不同方法在培育过程中溶解氧和pH变化差异显著，流动培养法最为稳定.4种方法的通量结果在不同季节变化趋势具有显著相关性，非扩散模型法估算结果作为表观通量值，适用于计算湖泊沉积物营养盐释放总量，其中静态释放法结果稳定性较差，平行组相对标准偏差最高达70%；流动培养法稳定性最好，平行组相对标准偏差最高仅21%.扩散模型法估算结果作为理论释放值，在估算浅水湖泊通量时低于实际释放通量，适于探究深水湖泊沉积物间隙水动态释放过程，有助于分析湖泊沉积物性质.不同培养方法，有其侧重点，根据不同湖泊状况，应选取合适方法进行通量估算.;Nutrient releasing at the sediment-water interface (SWI) is the focus of environmental behavior research in lakes, but there is a lack of lateral quantitative comparison in the methods used to estimate lake fluxes. In this paper, Lake Mochou in Nanjing was taken as the research object, and four common lake flux estimation methods, such as static release method, mechanical agitation method, flow cultivation method and pore water concentration diffusion model method, were used to conduct comparative experiments on nitrogen and phosphorus release in winter, spring and summer. The results showed that the non-diffusion model (static release, mechanical agitation and flow cultivation) had negative flux in the winter, and the estimated flux was positive in the summer with the increase in temperature, and there was no significant difference in the flux values between the three methods. The results of the pore water diffusion model method showed no negative values in the three-season tests, which were significantly different from those of the non-diffusion model groups with about one order of magnitude lower. There were significant differences in dissolved oxygen and pH among different methods, and the flow cultivation method was the most stable. The flux results of the four methods were significantly correlated with each other in different seasons. As the apparent flux value, the estimation results of the non-diffusion model method were suitable for calculating the total nutrient release of lake sediments. The static release method showed poor stability, and the relative standard deviation of the parallel group was up to 70%. The flow cultivation method had the best stability, and the relative standard deviation of the parallel group was only 21%. As the theoretical release value, the estimated result of the diffusion model is lower than the actual release flux of shallow lake flux, which is suitable for exploring the dynamic release process of sediment interstitial water in deep-water lakes and helpful for analyzing the properties of lake sediments. Different cultivation methods have their own emphases. According to different lake conditions and experimental needs, appropriate methods should be selected for flux estimation.

Temporal and Spatial Evolution Characteristics of DOM Spectra in Sediment Interstitial Water in Typical Zones of Baiyangdian Lake

The sources and distribution of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the interstitial water of Baiyangdian Lake sediments were analyzed using the ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrum (UV-vis) method and three-dimensional excitation emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy-parallel factor analysis (EEM-PARAFAC). Results showed that the DOM concentrations and molecular weight were significantly higher in summer than in spring and autumn, based on a254 and E2/E3 values. Three protein-like substance (C1, C2, and C3) and two humic-like substances (C4, C5) were identified with the PARAFAC model. Moreover, protein-like substances accounted for the majority of DOM, reaching (63.56±16.07)%. Total DOM fluorescence intensity, the fluorescence intensity of each component, and the relative abundance exhibited significant spatial variation among the different functional zones in Baiyangdian Lake. Protein-like substances were mainly found in the breeding area, whereas humic-like substances mainly occurred in the natural area. The high BIX, FI, β:α, and low HIX indicated that DOM in sediment interstitial water exhibited low humification and highly autochthonous characteristics. Moreover, the perfect regression equations between water quality and the fluorescent components could provide a useful reference for managers aiming to protect the ecosystem of Baiyangdian Lake.

Suppression of phosphorus release from eutrophic lake sediments by sediment microbial fuel cells

ABSTRACT Sediment microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) have served as an alternative technique to suppress phosphorus release from lake sediments to water bodies and thus mitigate eutrophication. However, the phosphorus regulation mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this research was to understand the electrochemical influence of an SMFC on the phosphorus concentration in interstitial water. In this study, a lab-scale SMFC was applied to acetate-spiked sediments (ace+) and unspiked sediments (sed) with closed-circuit (CC)/open-circuit (OC) columns, and the circuitry was switched to investigate the relationship between electron transfer and phosphorus concentration. The dissolved total phosphorus (DTP) concentration in the sediment interstitial water in CC columns significantly decreased to below 0.1 mg/L, whereas the DTP in OC columns remained high for nine weeks. After switching the circuit, the DTP in OC→CC columns dropped but that in CC→OC columns increased within one week. At the end of the experimental period, the DTP concentrations in CC/sed, CC/ace+, OC/sed, and OC/ace+ columns were 0.10 ± 0.02, 0.03 ± 0.00, 0.82 ± 0.01, and 1.66 ± 0.12 mg/L, respectively. The respective estimated anode capacitances of those columns were 2.05 ± 0.49, 5.15 ± 0.14, 0.72 ± 0.19, and 0.71 ± 0.12 nF. We concluded that the phosphorus may have been electrochemically attracted and retained on the anode in the sediment because the adsorbed DTP contents and the increased anode capacitances were strongly correlated. Thus, SMFCs can be used for suppressing phosphorus release from eutrophic lake sediments.

The Release of Endogenous Nitrogen and Phosphorus in the Danjiangkou Reservoir: A Double‐Membrane Diffusion Model Analysis

Endogenous contamination from the newly submerged sediment may have an impact on the water quality of the Danjiangkou Reservoir, the water source of the middle route of the South‐to‐North Water Diversion Project. In this study, in situ sediment samples were collected at different locations (Guojiashan (DJK1), Kongqueyuan (DJK2), Shijiagou (DJK3), Shiqiao Wharf (DJK4), and Songgang Wharf (DJK5) from the north to the south) of the Danjiangkou Reservoir and the upstream tributary using a columnar sediment sampler and statically cultured in laboratory, and the distribution and release of endogenous N and P from the sediment were investigated based on a double‐membrane diffusion model. The results showed that the P contents in the main reservoir and the upstream tributary followed the order of inorganic phosphorus (IP) > organic phosphorus (OP) > calcium − phosphorus (Ca − P) > iron − phosphorus (Fe − P) > labile phosphorus (LP). IP accounted for the largest proportion (47.10‐59.70%) of total phosphorus (TP), while LP accounted for only a small proportion (0.10‐0.90%) of TP. There is a significant difference in the spatial distribution of P at different sampling points, especially for the OP content (226.90 mg·kg-1) with a coefficient of variation of 26.90%. The contents of different forms of P and NH4+‐N decreased from the upstream tributary to the main reservoir, which was mainly attributed to the land use type. In the vertical distribution, the contents of different forms of P in DJK4 and DJK5 decreased with the increase of sediment depth. The contents of NH4+‐N and PO43-‐P in the sediment interstitial water of DJK4 and DJK5 were higher than those in the overlying water. In addition, the contents of NH4+‐N and PO43-‐P were higher in DJK5 than that in DJK4. The static culture experiments showed that N and P were mainly released from the sediment‐overlying water interface to the overlying water. The release rate of NH4+‐N and PO43-‐P ranged from 13.08 mg·(m2·d)-1 to 21.39 mg·(m2·d)-1 and from 3.06 mg·(m2·d)-1 to 6.02 mg·(m2·d)-1, and the release amount calculated based on the double‐membrane diffusion model was 1.17 × 103 t·a-1 and 0.53 × 103 t·a-1, respectively. Thus, endogenous contamination from the newly submerged land is an important factor affecting the water quality of the Danjiangkou Reservoir.

Effects of Different Water Stratification on the Vertical Distribution of Nitrogen in Sediment Interstitial Waters: A Case Study of the Three Gorges Reservoir and Xiaowan Reservoir

To determine the reasons for the variation in the vertical distribution of nitrogen in sediment interstitial waters between different stratified reservoirs, the characteristics of overlying water-interstitial water in Xiangxi Bay, Yangtze River mainstream, and Xiaowan Reservoir were monitored. The vertical distribution of nitrogen in sediment interstitial waters in these different stratified waters were then analyzed, and the reasons for the variation in this distribution were assessed. The results showed:① the ρ(TN) in the sediment interstitial waters of the Yangtze River mainstream and Xiangxi Bay gradually increased with depth, while that of Xiaowan Reservoir reached its maximum at 12 cm and the bottom layer presented a "C" distribution. The ρ(NH4+) in the sediment interstitial waters of the Yangtze River mainstream and Xiangxi Bay exhibited an increasing trend with depth, while that of Xiaowan Reservoir was slightly higher in the bottom layer than in the surface layer, although the change with depth was not significant. Overall, the ρ(NH4+) in the sediment interstitial waters of the Yangtze River mainstream and Xiangxi Bay was higher than that of Xiaowan Reservoir, and the concentration ranges were as follows:0.512-8.289 mg·L-1, 0.968-9.307 mg·L-1, and 0.950-1.450 mg·L-1. The vertical distribution of the ρ(NO3-) in the sediment interstitial waters of all three waterbodies were opposite to that of ρ(NH4+). Moreover, the ρ(NO3-) in the sediment interstitial waters of Xiangxi Bay and the Yangtze River mainstream was higher than that of Xiaowan Reservoir. The concentration ranges were as follows:0.143-0.674 mg·L-1, 0.107-0.647 mg·L-1, and 0.050-0.051 mg·L-1. ② There were also significant differences in the vertical distribution of physical and chemical indices in the three water bodies. There was no significant change in the vertical distribution of the water temperature in the Yangtze River mainstream and the N2 value was <5×10-5 s-2; hence, the water was well mixed, and the vertical range of the dissolved oxygen content was 6.180-6.318 mg·L-1. The water temperature in the upper and middle reaches of Xiangxi Bay decreased vertically, while the water temperature in the lower reach presented a ladder-like distribution and the N2 values were all>5×10-5 s-2; thus, the water was in a stable stratified state and the dissolved oxygen content presented a "C" distribution. There was obvious stratification at the depths of 5-15 m and 54-70 m in Xiaowan Reservoir. The dissolved oxygen content decreased significantly at higher water temperature gradients, and there was no significant change along the water depth below 80 m. ③ The main reasons for the variation in the vertical distribution of nitrogen in the sediment interstitial waters of the three waterbodies were the differences in the overlying water hydrodynamics, dissolved oxygen distribution, and sediment environment. The ρ(NH4+) and ρ(NO3-) were higher in Xiangxi Bay, which may have increased the denitrification rate and subsequently have helped to remove nitrogen and reduce the nitrogen load in these waters.

Temporal and Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Difference Analysis of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter in Sediment Interstitial Water from Gangnan Reservoir

The chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM), the main component of dissolved organic matter, affects the morphological characteristics, migration, and conversion of pollutants in water. Based on UV-vis spectra and excitation emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMs) combined with the parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), the spatial distribution and spectral characteristics were investigated and source analysis of CDOM was performed. Thus, the spatiotemporal differences in the CDOM in Gangnan Reservoir were analyzed. Results showed that a254, a260, a280, and a355 exhibited significant seasonal differences in Gangnan Reservoir, and the order of CDOM concentrations was summer > spring > autumn > winter. There are significant seasonal differences in the E2/E3, E3/E4, E4/E6, and SR of interstitial water CDOM. The concentrations of E2/E3, E3/E4, E4/E6, and SR were high in winter and low in summer. E2/E3 and E3/E4 in autumn and winter were significantly higher than those in spring and summer, and the E3/E4 in autumn and winter was greater than 3.5, which indicates that the CDOM of the autumn and winter sediments has a smaller molecular weight and a lower degree of humification. Protein-like substances (C1), short-wave fulvic acid (C2), and degraded humic substances (C3) were identified by the PARAFAC model, and there was a significant positive correlation among the three fluorescent components (P<0.001). The total fluorescence intensity of CDOM and the fluorescence intensity of each fluorescent component show significant seasonal differences. The total fluorescence intensity and the fluorescence intensity of each component show the highest levels in spring, followed by autumn and winter, and the lowest levels in summer. The proportion of each fluorescent component in autumn and winter and that of each fluorescent component in spring and summer showed no significant difference. There was a significant difference in the proportion of each fluorescent component between autumn/winter and spring/summer. The BIX and FI of CDOM for autumn and winter were higher than those for spring and summer, indicating that the autogenous source of CDOM in autumn and winter is stronger than that in spring and summer, which was consistent with the result of HIX. PCA and Adonis analysis showed that the spectral characteristics of CDOM exhibited obvious seasonal differences (P<0.001). Moreover, the C1, C2, and C3 and water quality parameters (NH4+, NO3-, NO2-, TDN, and TDP) exhibited significant correlation based on linear regression. The results could provide technical support for the control of organic carbon pollution sources and water quality management in Gangnan Reservoir.

Study on the mechanism of the influence of flood storage at the end of the Three Gorges Reservoir on the phosphorus forms in the sediments of the tributary reservoir bay

This paper studies the influence of the impounding process during flood recession in the TGR on the distribution and rerelease of sediment phosphorus forms in the Xiangxi Bay in 2016. Influenced by the main stream of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) flowing backward during impoundment, the water environmental conditions, sediment grain size and sediment-forming environment of the tributary bays change correspondingly. In this study, it is found that the water temperature (WT), turbidity and oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) of the overlying water in the Xiangxi Bay decrease, while the pH increases after impoundment in the TGR. The backward flow of the main stream containing a large amount of sediments increases the sediment content of the tributary bay, and the difference in sediment particle size between the main stream and tributaries narrows after resedimentation. The phosphorus adsorbed on the sediments increases the total phosphorus (TP) in the sediments of the Xiangxi River to 1.3 times its value before water impoundment. NaOH-P and HCl-P in the Xiangxi River sediments account for 42% and 38% of the TP, respectively, and the contents of the various phosphorus forms are ranked in the following order: NaOH-P > HCl-P > organic phosphorus (OP). After impoundment, HCl-P accounts for 67% of the TP, and the relative contents of the phosphorus forms are ranked as: HCl-P > OP > NaOH-P. Orthophosphate (PO43−-P) in the Xiangxi sediments before and after impoundment acts as a source, and the PO43−-P diffusion flux increases from approximately − 0.0029 to 0.0059 mg (m2 d)−1 before impoundment to 0.0067–0.1071 mg (m2 d)−1 after impoundment, which is mainly due to the increased difference in concentration of PO43−-P [ρ(PO43−-P)] between the sediment interstitial water and overlying water after impoundment. After nutrient recharge of the main stream of the Yangtze River, ρ(PO43−-P) of the overlying water is 3.7 times its value before impoundment, and after the release of NaOH-P in the sediments, ρ(PO43−-P) of the interstitial water is 8.3 times its value before water impoundment. Hence, the risk of nutrient release from the sediments in the Xiangxi Bay increases.

Effects of different dosing modes of calcium nitrate on P locking in sediment and nutrient concentrations in waters.

Sediment is an endogenous pollution source, which often leads water systems to eutrophication due to the release of nutrients, especially phosphorus (P). Calcium nitrate (CN) was dosed to the water systems under different modes to control P release from the sediments in this study. A 63-day static laboratory test was conducted to explore the effects of intermittent dosing and one-time dosing modes of CN on P locking in the sediment and the concentrations of nitrogen (N) and P in waters. Results showed that 89% total phosphorus (TP) in the overlying water and 91% TP in the interstitial water of sediment were reduced in the intermittent dosing reactor, which were 4% and 13% higher than those in the one-time dosing reactor, respectively. Thus, the concentration of TP in the overlying water of the dosing reactors was both below 0.1mg/L during the whole experiment. Meanwhile, the mean values of oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in the sediment increased to - 110.7 ± 42.02mV when CN was added intermittently, which were significantly higher than those of the one-time dosing reactor (- 158.3 ± 44.61mV) and control reactor (- 320.7 ± 0.05mV). Compared with one-time dosing mode, the intermittent dosing not only reduced the maximum concentrations of NO2--N from 9.21 to 1.79mg/L and NO3--N from 92.42 to 27.58mg/L but also shorten their retention time in the overlying water, which might depress the toxic threats to aquatic animals in water environments. Therefore, the intermittent dosing of CN could not only improve the P locking effect but also minimize the risks to aquatic animals in water environments under the premise of reasonable dosage selected. In a word, this research provided an effective operation mode for locking P with CN in the heavily polluted water bodies, which is also advantageous to avoid toxic threats to aquatic animals in water environment.

Fate of atrazine and its relationship with environmental factors in distinctly different lake sediments associated with hydrophytes

Atrazine contamination is of great concern due to its widespread occurrence in shallow lakes. Here, the distribution and degradation of atrazine in acidic and alkaline lake systems were investigated. Meanwhile, the bacterial communities in different sediments and the effects of environmental factors on atrazine-degrading bacteria were evaluated. In the lake systems without plants, atrazine levels in sediment interstitial water reached peak concentrations on the 4th d. More than 90% of atrazine was then degraded in all sediment interstitial water by day 30. Meanwhile, the degradation rate of atrazine in alkaline sediments was faster than that in acidic sediments. Values of hydroxylated metabolites in the acidic lake sediments tended to be greater. Moreover, the amounts of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicute, Nitrospinae, Aminicenantes, Ignavibacteriae and Saccharibacteria in acidic Tangxunhu Lake sediments were significantly different from alkaline Honghu Lake sediments, while the amounts of Cyanobacteria and Saccharibacteria in sediments treated with atrazine were significantly greater than those in sediments without atrazine (P < 0.05). Notably, pH was the most relevant environmental factor in the quantitative variation of atrazine-degrading bacteria, including in Clostridium-sensu-stricto, Pseudomonas, Comamonas and Rhodobacter. The Mantel test results indicated that the degradation of atrazine in different sediments was mainly affected by the sediment physicochemical properties rather than by the addition of atrazine and the cultivation of hydrophytes.