SUSPENDED PARTICULATE MATTER AS AN INDICATOR OF METALS POLLUTION IN RIVERIN SYSTEM

Content of heavy metals is strongly dependent on the composition of suspendend particulate matter (SPM). Metals contamination of the aquatic environment can be natural origin as well as is a result of human activities. SPM is an important indicator of processes occurring in the basin. Mineralogical and geochemical identification and determination of the origin of the suspension components is necessary to evaluate the role of SPM in the accumulation and transport of trace metals in Odra river. Research were carried in the Upper and the Middle Odra River and its tributaries. SPM samples were analyzed with SEM-EDS application and metals in water and SPM were determined by ICP-MS. Result of SEM-EDS shows the presence of carbonates - mainly calcite, silicates - especially quartz and feldspars as well as illit. Obtained results allowed to recognize a variety of plankton species. It should be noted that very common in SPM feldspar and quartz contain relatively low amount of metal, as opposed to clay minerals that are responsible for the pollution. In SPM samples the presence of significant quantities of anthropogenic dust were recognized. Observed metal pollution of the Odra river basin is dangerous because of their toxic nature and the threat to living organisms. Suspended matter seems to be one of the best indicator of antropogenic pollution in riverin system.