Heavy Metals in Superficial Sediments from the Ligurian Sea,Italy

In this paper we are presenting the concentrations and the distributions of trace metals (Fe, Ni, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn) in the coastal area of the Ligurian Sea between Capo Noli and Capo Mele. Fifty-six samples were subjected to textural, organic carbon and chemical analyses. Three different extraction methods were used: 1N NH₂OH.HCl plus 25% CH₃COOH, nitric acid solution, and total attack with HClO₄-HF mixture. The solutions were analysed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results obtained confirm that the extraction methods which are most informative for environmental purposes are the cold or the easily extractable metal techniques. The results also show that for the study area the concentrations of Fe, Ni, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn do not indicate traces of anthropogenic inputs.