Fate and Transportation of PAH and Metal Comtaminants in the Anacostia River Tidal Region
Abstract
PAH and metal contaminant transport has been studied in the Anacostia River tidal region quarterly since June 1997. Data from this report indicates that the physical transport of total suspended solids (TSS) through the tidal region of the Anacostia River has a substantial impact on the concentrations and fate of PAHs. Result show that the upper tidal region is a source of PAHs to the lower region To initiate an understanding of the fate of PAHs attached to TSS, sediment traps were placed through the river. Sediment deposition at the wide and deep region of the river was similar to or greater than values measured in the upper regions where TSS concentrations are elevated This observation has been supported with the following approaches: (1) comparison of river volumes in the upper river relative to the wide and deep region, and (2) measurements in the variation of current velocity through the river. These results indicate that this segment of the river is a region of substantial sedimentation of TSS attached PAHs attached. This correlates with previous studies that report high concentrations of PAH contaminants in sediments at this region of the river.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 12, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA360167
Entities
People
- C. S. Mitchell
- J. W. Pohlman
- R. B. Coffin
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory