Behavior of aliphatic hydrocarbons in coastal seawater: mesocosm experiments with [14C]octadecane and [14C]decane

The behaviour of (carbon-14)octadecane and (carbon-14)decane in mesocosms (controlled experimental ecosystems) was examined. Changes in carbon-14 activity were determined by liquid scintillation counting. Under summer conditions both compounds were removed primarily by biodegradation. Removal rate c...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Environmental science & technology 1986-06, Vol.20 (6), p.574-580
Main Authors: WAKEHAM, S. G, CANUEL, E. A, DOERING, P. H
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Exact sciences and technology
Natural water pollution
Pollution
Seawaters, estuaries
Water treatment and pollution
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Summary:The behaviour of (carbon-14)octadecane and (carbon-14)decane in mesocosms (controlled experimental ecosystems) was examined. Changes in carbon-14 activity were determined by liquid scintillation counting. Under summer conditions both compounds were removed primarily by biodegradation. Removal rate constants are calculated. Mass balances showed that mineralization removed 71 per cent of the (carbon-14)octadecane and 82 per cent of the (carbon-14)decane. Volatilization removed 15 per cent and 6 per cent respectively. The mesocosm data were used to predict the fate of aliphatic hydrocarbons in Narragansett bay.
ISSN:0013-936X
1520-5851
DOI:10.1021/es00148a005