Document Type : ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

Authors

1 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 14155-6135, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Environmental Science, Graduate School of the Environment and Energy, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Estuaries are well known for their potential in removing metal from fresh water to provide micro-nutrients to aquatic life. In the present investigation, we have tried to bring out the metal removal potential of estuaries during accidental spills. For this purpose artificial river water containing high concentration of Mn, Cu, Zn, Ni and Pb were mixed with sea water at different salinity regimes. Water samples were taken from a station on the main branch of Tajan River that flows in to the Caspian Sea. For this purpose, solutions with a concentration of 5 mg/L of each studied metal (Mn,Cu, Zn, Pb) were prepared in Tajan River water. The salinity regimes include 3, 6, 8, 10 and 11 ppt. It was noted that metal concentration decreased by increasing salinity. Metals were flocculated at different rates: Cu (88%) > Ni (86%) > Pb (84%) > Mn (74%).Thus, as average about 80% of total elemental content flocculates. Hence, it was concluded that a large amount of micro nutrients is carried by the river and flocculated in the estuary where the river water mixes with the sea water which may play a vital role in supplying nutrients to the aquatic animals. Cluster analyses have shown that Mn and Ni are governed by EC, pH and salinity. 

Graphical Abstract

Role of estuarine natural processes in removal of trace metals under emergency situations

Highlights

  • Flocculants as a major source of micro nutrients in marine environment
  • The governing factor for flocculation of Ni and Mn are pH, EC and salinity
  • pH, EC and salinity govern flocculation of Ni and Mn

Keywords

Main Subjects

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