SORPTION KINETICS OF TRIBUTYLTIN ON ELBE RIVER BIOFILMS

For the first time detailed sorption kinetics of tributyltin on native Elbe river biofilms are presented. For this purpose a modified annula r rotating continuous flow reactor has been used to develop a reproduc ible biofilm. Important parameters, such as flow rates, sheer forces, and nutrient concentrations could be varied independently and adjusted to natural conditions. Time-resolved sorption kinetics have been carr ied out with tributyltin, the most toxic compound in many antifouling paints. The highest sorption rates of tributyltin were observed during the first 0-10 min (0.60 +/- 0.05 mu g Sn m(-2)min(-1)) than they dec reased to a value of 0.10 +/- 0.10 mu g Sn m(-2)min(-1) (10-90 min) an d increased to a value of 0.20 +/- 0.05 mu g Sn m(-2)min(-1) (90-120 m in).