Distribution of metal pollutants in floodplain sediments

Summary Metal concentrations in the polluted floodplain sediments of the River Rheidol are analysed. These vary according to the date of floodplain reworking in relation to that of former mining activity, according to sedimentary environment, and with metals present. Variability between and within sedimentary environments is discussed, together with the differential behaviour of Pb, Cu and Zn.