Optimization of Tessier Procedure for Metal Solid Speciation in River Sediments

Abstract Optimization of Tessier procedure for trace metal partitioning in sediments is studied. Firstly simplex optimization method is applied and the results indicate that the volume of extractant solution/weight of sediment ratio (V/m) is the main variable. Optimization of V/m ratio for second, third and fourth fractions of Tessier scheme is studied on two different river sediments. The optimum values of V/m ratio obtained are applied for copper, lead, chromium and nickel partitioning. The results obtained are compared with those obtained using Tessier procedure. Some conclusions about the behaviour of each fraction are presented.