The chemistry of suspended particulate material in a highly contaminated embayment of Port Jackson (Australia) under quiescent,high-wind and heavy-rainfall conditions |
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Authors: | Gavin Birch Laura O’Hea |
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Institution: | (1) Environmental Geology Group, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia |
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Abstract: | This study investigated physico-chemical characteristics of the water column and chemistry of suspended particulate material
(SPM) under quiescent, high-wind and high-wind/heavy-rainfall conditions in Homebush Bay, a highly contaminated embayment
of Port Jackson (Australia) to distinguish source and possible adverse effects to benthic and pelagic animals. Mean concentrations
in surficial sediment were <1, 14, 181, 141, 37, 290 and 685 μg g−1 for Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn, respectively. Sediment chemistry indicated these metals had multiple sources, i.e. the
estuary, stormwater and industry. Mean total suspended solids (TSS) were 7, 17 and 20 mg L−1 during quiescent, high-rainfall and heavy rainfall/high wind conditions, respectively, whereas SPM Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb
and Zn concentrations varied between 13–25, 166–259, 127–198, 38–82, 236–305 and 605–865 μg g−1, respectively under these conditions. TSS and total water metal concentrations were lowest during quiescent conditions. High
TSS and metal loads in surface water characterised high-rainfall events. Wind-induced resuspension contributed the greatest
mass of SPM and metals to the water column. Benthic animals may be adversely affected by Pb and Zn in sediment. Total water
Cu and Zn concentrations may pose a risk to filter-feeding animals in the water column due to resuspension of contaminated
sediment. |
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Keywords: | Suspended particulate matter Heavy metals Stratified estuaries Well-mixed estuaries Contaminant risk |
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