Spatial distribution and speciation of mercury and methyl mercury in the surface water of East River (Dongjiang) tributary of Pearl River Delta, South China

摘要: The distribution and speciation of mercury in surface water East River, Guangdong province, China were investigated. All told 63 samples collected during a bi-weekly sampling campaign from July 15th to 26th, 2009. Total (THg) concentrations ranged 11 49 ng/L. Maximum levels THg measured the lower reaches where it passes through major industrial area adjacent Dongguang city. Higher ratios dissolved (THg (aq)) proportion restricted downstream section River. Concentrations minor constituent methyl varied range 0.08 0.21 ng/L. On average, made up 0.8% 0.56% (aq) THg, respectively. Dissolved species dominated proportions 81%, which may imply that is largely produced situ within river water. Environmental factors (such as temperature, oxygen, etc.) are regarded play an important role Hg methylation processes monitored assessed. In international perspective, River must be classified polluted with considerably sources its areas. particle fluxes Pearl Estuary by run-off estimated 0.31 ± 0.11 0.17 ± 0.13 t/year, Hence, total nearly 0.5 t annually released sea tributary.