ANZECC sediment metals SEM fraction now available

The Australian and New Zealand guidelines for fresh and marine water quality 2000 (usually referred to as "ANZECC") provides guidelines for investigating contaminants in sediments (Section 3.5).

Figure 3.5.1 in the Guidelines shows a decision tree for the assessment of contaminated sediments, and contains the statement "Measure total then dilute acid soluble metals ...."

Historically our clients have been requesting "Total Recoverable" (US EPA 200.2) metals on sediments which are air dried and sieved to <2mm before analysis. We have done many thousands of these analyses.

ANZECC refers to a paper by Allen 1993 for 'dilute-acidextractable metals', but this paper does not contain the required extraction details. With the help of a client, we have now sourced a suitable method for "SEM" (Simultaneously Extractable Metals). This is a 1M HCl extraction for 1hr, the same as used for measuring AVS (Acid Volatile Sulphide, note that we do not, yet, offer AVS), followed by ICPMS analysis for the metals.

If Total Recoverable metals are above the Guidelines, it is now possible to request 1MHCl extractable metals. We have used this definition, rather than the more general 'dilute acid soluble' from ANZECC as the latter has the potential for confusion.

A typical analysis for Cu, Pb, Zn costs $97.00 + GST, from a sub-2mm fraction. Sieving is extra if analysis is requested from a sub-63um fraction. [Codes Cu1MHCl, etc. Detection limits are around 1mg/kg dry wt].

For more information call the laboratory on 07 858 2000.

Environmental Client Services Managers

Graham Corban

Jean Connick

Carole Rodgers-Carroll

Julie Robinson

Peter Robinson

Ara Heron

Martin Cowell