HEAVY-METAL AND CHLORINATED-HYDROCARBON CONTAMINATION OF SELECTED AQUATIC SEDIMENTS FROM THE BERLIN AREA

Sediments from the Berlin area were analysed for heavy metals and chlo rinated hydrocarbons. The sedimentological and hydrogeological aspects of the Holocene sediments are discussed and an adapted sampling devic e for muds with a high water content is described. The contamination o f surface sediments and dated cores is shown back in the 19th century; the hydrological influences on the degree of contamination and potent ial threats to groundwater and, via remobilisation, to surface waters are considered. It is concluded that the sediments of the Berlin area are highly contaminated.