The behaviour of the Platinum Group Metals (PGEs) in Estuarine Sediments

Platinum group metals (PGEs) are released into the marine environment from the catalytic converter unit fitted to the exhaust section of the modem motor vehicle. The occurrence of PGEs in the environment has been cause for concern since the link between catalytic converters PGE emissions was established. PGEs are known to accumulate in aquatic sediments therefore this was the focus of the study. Sediment samples were added to a variety of solutions exposed to a platinum concentration of 20mg f' for a 17 hour period. pH was shown to have limited affect on the particulate affinity. Investigation into the effect of different salts at varying concentrations revealed a strong correlation between the salinity of the solution and the salt species present. Rhodium showed high adsorption in all solutions. Palladium demonstrated a reliance on chloride ions. Platinum exhibited a tendency to remain in solution and only displayed noticeable adsorption behaviour in the presence of calcium carbonate. Determination of the factors influencing the adsorption behaviour will allow the prediction of at risk areas in the marine environment.Faculty of Scienc