Prediction of trace metal distribution coefficients (KD) for aerobic sediments

Distribution coefficients fbr suspended sediments may be estimated from water and sediment quality variables, using detailed conceptual chemical models or semi-empirical models. The predicted K-D values find application in trace metal fate modelling and risk assessment. The detailed chemical model SWAMP (Sediment Water Algorithm for Metal Partitioning) which expresses trace metal distribution coefficients as a function of environmental variables and sediment characteristics was used to describe field K-D values. Besides SWAMP, semi-empirical models were derived from field-K-D values. The field K-D-values for Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn were measured on samples taken monthly from four surface waters in The Netherlands. In this paper we discuss the differences between the two modeling approaches. (C) 1998 IAWQ. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.