Multi-element characterization of estuarine sediments and waters

Trace elements were studied in the sediments and waters of the Atlantic Oce an, under the influence of Tagus river estuary, near Lisbon (Portugal), Ele mental concentrations of Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Zr and Pb, were de termined by total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF), in surface recent s ediments (fraction <63 mu m) and bottom waters at 20 sampling sites, A comp arison was made between the results obtained and the recommended values giv en in the literature for estuarine sediments and also for ocean waters and concentration factors (sediment/water elemental concentrations). This study showed high concentrations for As and Pb, in sediments and an enrichment f or all the elements determined in waters, although the concentration factor s were always below the recommended values, except for Fe and As, Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.