Tributyltin release from harbour sediments—Modelling the influence of sedimentation, bio-irrigation and diffusion using data from Bremerhaven

This study describes the potential release of TBT from harbour sediments based on model calculations for different sediment management scenarios applying a numerical one-dimensional FD-model. A conceptual model was developed focussing on the following processes involved in the transport of TBT: sorption equilibrium, diffusion, irrigation and sedimentation. Assuming TBT-concentration of 292 μg/kg in the sediment, the diffusive release of TBT from sediments into the bottom water was calculated to 7.4 × 10−7–6.9 × 10−6 mol m−2 after 1 year and 7.4 × 10−6–1.6 × 10−4 mol m−2 after 100 years. In these scenarios, neither sedimentation nor capping were considered. Assuming a sedimentation at a rate of 1 cm/a, the polluted sediments will be covered with TBT-free suspended matter. A diffusive release of TBT will be prevented if no bio-irrigation takes place. Capping with a layer of sand of 50 cm thickness will decrease the diffusive release. If a reactive capping could be applied, the release of TBT into the bottom water would be stopped almost completely. The study shows that our model calculations enables us to compare different scenarios in sediment management based on available data. Additionally, it can provide information for risk assessment in the absence of data.