skip to main content
OSTI.GOV title logo U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Title: Aquatic-surface microlayer contamination in Chesapeake Bay. Final report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5563555

The boundary between the atmosphere and the aquatic environment is an important biological habitat and a collection point for pollutants. The eggs and larvae of many fish and shellfish species float on, or come in contact with, the water surface throughout their early development. The aquatic-surface microlayer serves as a concentration point for metal and organic contaminants that have low water solubility or are associated with floatable particles. Coal-fired power plants may release organic and metal contaminants into the environment that subsequently concentrate on the water surface. The objectives of this study were to (1) determine the present degree of aquatic surface microlayer pollution at selected sites in Chesapeake Bay, and (2) provide a preliminary evaluation of sources (including power plants) contributing to any observed contamination.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA (USA)
OSTI ID:
5563555
Report Number(s):
PB-88-137443/XAB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English