Trace metal distribution in a coastal sediment from Adriatic Sea

Abstract

The spatial distribution of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn has been studied in surface sediments of the eastern Adriatic coastal region. In addition, Pb concentration has been determined in long sediment cores dating back to preindustrial time. The results indicate that trace metal concentrations in surface sediment layer depend both on pollution sources, and on local characteristics of the marine and terrestrial environment. Generally, most of the concentrations are not high revealing that the coastal area is not heavily ppolluted. Granulometric and geochemical data indicate the existence of some differences between sediments formed in the vicinity of fresh wather input and sediments from areas without fresh water input.