THERMAL-ANALYSIS OF SEDIMENT IN THE SAALE RIVER

Samples of sediments taken from the River Saale at different locations were investigated by thermogravimetry, differential thermal analysis, mass spectrometry and FTIR spectroscopy. The thermal behaviour of the se sediments varied significantly depending on contents of organic and inorganic compounds. The variable organic loading resulted from the d ifferent degrees of treatment of communal or industrial waste water. M ass spectrometric investigations in the lower temperature ranges demos trated humic substances as essential components. The mineral component s in the river sections of the slate mountains differed significantly from those of the shell limestone. The results of FTIR analysis of the se samples confirmed well with the findings of thermoanalytical invest igations.