Particulate Organic Matter-contaminant Associations at the Water-sediment Interface: Biological and Physical Controls
Abstract
LONG-TERM GOALS. The overall goal of this study is to build a framework for understanding processes influencing the association of contaminants with naturally occurring organic materials associated with suspended particles and surficial sediments. Specifically, we are using geochemical tracers, so-called "biomarkers", coupled with distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to identify sources of organic matter in the southern Chesapeake Bay (CB) and to understand the delivery, transformation and accumulation of natural and contaminant organic matter in coastal sediments. SCIENTIFIC OBJECTIVES. The objectives of this project are: (1) to evaluate spatial and temporal variations in organic matter delivery and degradation processes in coastal waters, (2) to relate the composition of organic matter in sediments to physical and biologically-mediated transport processes in estuarine and coastal systems, and (3) to examine links between the fluxes and cycling of natural organic matter at the water-sediment interface and the transport and fate of organic contaminants. Within this framework, we will quantify various organic contaminants associated with sedimentary particulate matter, determine the seasonal fluxes of these substances at the water-sediment interface, and establish relationships, as possible, between natural organic matter and organic contaminant cycling in coastal and estuarine systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA634605
Entities
People
- Elizabeth A. Canuel
- Rebecca M. Dickhut
Organizations
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science