Title: Assessing and predicting the changes for inorganic mercury and methylmercury concentrations in surface waters of a tidal estuary

Method to separate processes, occurring in water in during estuarine mixing, for estuary suffering from downstream contamination is described. Total and dissolved concentrations of inorganic mercury (IHg) and methylmercury (MeHg) in water (Adour Estuary) were determined during three sampling campaigns and related to biogeochemical variables (nutrients, organic matter). Factors (sampling time, sample type) were included in analysis of covariance with effect separation. The lower estuary suffered historically from anthropogenic sources, however, decreased emissions have reduced Hg concentrations. Total IHg and MeHg concentrations are additively described by suspended particulate matter and particulate organic carbon. Higher total concentrations, carried by organic-rich particles, were found near specific discharge points. The associated high dissolved MeHg concentrations could not be explained only by biogeochemical variables.

Name: Teodor Stoichev

Born 1969; Education/Research Experience: MSc Physical Chemistry, University of Sofia (Bulgaria, 1995); PhD Aquatic Chemistry, University of Pau (France, 2002); Researcher in CIIMAR (2006-present). Research interests: Biogeochemical processes, Environmental pollution with inorganic, organic and organometallic contaminants, Ecotoxicology, Analytical chemistry; Main Results: Mercury biogeochemistry, Heavy metals / organic compounds in coastal environments, Elements reactivity / chemical speciation, Methods for chemical analysis, Statistical separation of effects / modeling of processes in coastal environments, Ecotoxicology (Phytoplankton tests), Foam dynamics etc.

The seminar will take place at CIIMAR headquarters (Boca da Baleia Auditorium).

External members of CIIMAR should send an email to divulgacao@ciimar.up.pt, requesting authorization to enter the Leixões Terminal area

If you are a CIIMAR member you can also access last seminars recordings through the LINK.