Physical-Chemical–Biological-Processes Important to MNR
Chemical/Biological Processes
Most important in determining the mobility/bioavailability of contaminant
- Bioturbation :sediment mixing via sediment dwelling organisms
- Partitioning: sequestration of contaminant which reduces bioavailability
(directly related to sediment chemistry)
- Sediments Surface Characteristics (redox potential, pH, sediment
chemistry) important determiners of the speciation of the contaminant
-Sediment oxidation/reduction potential, local pH, precipitation/
dissolution of minerals that compose sediment surfaces