Reports
C & D approach channel chemical testing: sediment quality
1995, Hill, J.M., and Park, J.
File Reports, Coastal and Estuarine Geology, File Report 1995-05
Executive Summary
Fifteen sediment core samples were collected from the C & D Canal Access Channel and Basin area (near Chesapeake City) to determine the chemical state of the sediment prior to placement in upland containment facilities. Based on the analytical results recommendations are made as to potential remediation of the sediments. All indicators show that the trace metal levels (Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn), and Total Carbon, Total Nitrogen and Total Sulfur contents are all typical of the regional baseline and do not require any special consideration. However, all organic-rich sediments from estuarine and marine sediments contain diagenetically formed sulfide minerals, the primary species of comprising the Total Sulfur content in the sediment. This sulfur when exposed to subaerial conditions oxidizes according to the same processes as acid mine drainage. Because of the potential for the formation of acid leachate, as a result of oxidizing naturally occurring sulfides in the sediments, treatment of the material at the time of placement is recommended to prevent acid formation.
