Investigation of metal distribution in preserved areas is highly relevant due to the present-day lack of reliable databases against which to assess contamination. 23 samples of surface sediments from the Ribeira Bay, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, were analyzed by ICP/AES for Ti, Ca, Mg, Fe, Al, Sr, La, V, Y, Ni, Cu, Cr, Mn and Zn. Hg concentrations were determined by CVAAS. With respect to Al, metals were classified as strongly correlated, correlated, inversely correlated and non-correlated. Cluster analysis of the concentration data confirmed this, except for Hg. Cluster analysis of the sampling sites produced three groups, on the basis of grainsize, continental input, and marine input. Climatic and hydrodynamic factors, as well as soil characteristics, are important controls of the metal distribution in this region. The Ribeira Bay has a natural background metal content, when compared with average shales and with other impacted and non-impacted regions.
metal distribution; Ribeira bay; coastal regions; sediments; normalization
