Effects of pH on the accumulation and redistribution of metals in a polluted stream bed sediment

Abstract The accumulation of metals (Al, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) in the bottom sediments of a stream that serves as a drainage for a mine waste deposit has been studied. Data have been collected describing the water chemistry of the stream (major components as well as heavy metals), the formation and composition of suspended particulate matter in the stream and some qualitative data on the composition of the sediments (at three locations). Qualitative information on metal speciation and mechanisms for the association with solid phases as well as on the accumulation in sediments has been obtained from sequential leaching studies of both the suspended particulate phase and the stationary sediments. Combined effects of primarily pH, presence of organics and the presence and formation of sparingly soluble carrier phases (aluminum and iron hydroxides) on the redistribution of metals from the deposit are indicated.

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