Ambient PAH and Metal Concentration in Intertidal Sediments of Coaster's Harbor and Narragansett Bay
Abstract
Previous studies of sediment adjacent to the Old Fire Fighting Training Area (OFFTA) in Coaster's Harbor, Rhode Island, compared values for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations for intertidal stations with fully submerged reference stations. NRL and URI have previously reported that the ambient sediment PAH concentrations at that site are low and typical of urbanized estuarine sediments. Bacterial PAH degradation in these sediments results in pool turnover times that suggest the PAH concentrations result from current sources. A Navy fingerprinting study also indicated that the likely source of PAH to Coaster's Harbor sediment is urban runoff. If intertidal and submerged sediments are being impacted by current non-point inputs to surface water, then PAH concentrations may be higher in intertidal sediments. PAHs are relatively hydrophobic and tend to collect at marine interfaces, including the air-sea interface. Wave action in the intertidal zone could deposit hydrophobic contaminants on the surface sediment. An intertidal sediment sampling event was performed in the area adjacent to the OFFTA to evaluate PAH concentrations. In addition, metals analysis was also conducted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA431173
Entities
People
- Christopher L Osburn
- David C. Smith
- Michael T. Montgomery
- Thomas J. Boyd
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory