Benthic Flux Sampling Device
Description
The Benthic Flux Sampling Device (BFSD) is an instrument for measuring the flux rates (i.e., rates of change or movement) of contaminants in sediment. (Benthic refers to a narrow zone of water and sediment at the bottom of a body of surface water.) Benthic organisms are bottom feeders and the small organisms that live in sediment. The BFSD collects samples from a sealed volume of water at the sediment/water interface for 2 to 4 days. A flux rate is measured by analyzing the samples for an increase or decrease in contaminant concentration. Increases in concentration indicate that the contaminant is moving out of the sediment; decreases in concentration indicate that the contaminant is moving into the sediment.
Limitations and Concerns
Sampling with this device should be followed with more thorough analysis if contaminants are indicated.
The results should not be relied on to provide information on ecological effects.
Applicability
BFSD is an on-site screening tool used to determine whether contamination in sediments is moving to surface water. It is primarily used to detect the presence of heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury, chromium, zinc, and copper), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and petroleum products. It can be used to help determine whether dredging will increase environmental risks or if contaminants are being deposited in the sediment from surface waters.
Technology Status
The technology and methods are well developed. They can be considered commercial.
Web Links
http://www.estcp.org/projects/cleanup/199712o.cfm
http://www.estcp.org/projects/cleanup/199712v.cfm
http://www.estcp.org/projects/cleanup/200114o.cfm
Other Resources and Demonstrations
None identified.
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STATUS: The preceding technology description and links were last updated 07/2002.
If you believe any of the information is out of date,
please let us know at cpeo@cpeo.org.