Fractionation and Bioavailability of Arsenic in the Bed Sediments of the Anllóns River (NW Spain)

Devesa-Rey, R.; Paradelo, R.; Díaz-Fierros, F.; Barral, M. T.

Fractionation and Bioavailability of Arsenic in the Bed Sediments of the Anllóns River (NW Spain)

2008

Devesa-Rey, R. | Paradelo, R. | Díaz-Fierros, F. | Barral, M. T.

The arsenic bioavailability in the bed sediments from the Anllóns River (NW Spain) has been assessed by using several analytical approaches. A six-step sequential fractionation was compared to three general availability tests: the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) extraction, which estimates the leaching potential of As and its effect on the survival of microorganisms (Vibrio fischeri), an extraction with 1 M HCl extraction, which estimates the bioavailability to higher plants, and a physiologically based extraction test (PBET), which estimates the bioavailability to superior animals. Arsenic was found to be mainly associated to the least mobile fractions: bound to Fe-Al oxides and in the residual phase. Among the three single extractants considered, the PBET extracted the highest As concentrations (1-11% of the total As). The TCLP extracts showed toxicity to Vibrio fischeri whereas for the plants evaluated, aqueous extracts did not show adverse effects.

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