Sediment Contamination by Heavy Metals and PAH in the Piombino Channel (Tyrrhenian Sea)

Sediment contamination is of major concern in areas affected by heavy maritime traffic. The spatial variation and 11 trace elements 17 PAHs surface sediments were studied along a 31 km transect the seaway from port Piombino (Tuscany) to Portoferraio (Elba Island) Northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Heavy metal was detected at sites near (Ni, Pb, Hg, Cu Zn) (Pb, Zn, Cr Cd). Each 35 sampled showed PAH contamination, with highest concentrations Portoferraio. most abundant isomers 2- 4-ring PAHs. ratio analysis prevalence pyrolytic origin. High values metals related high sediment water content, TOC, silt, clay content. Arsenic increased increasing depth. correlation between suggests common anthropogenic sources for possible synergistic adverse effects on biota.