Pb Isotopes Study in Recent Sediments from Paraty Bay (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil): Antropogenic Versus Oceanic Signatures

A study of lead (Pb) isotopes in sediments from Paraty Bay, Brazil, reveals distinct isotopic signatures that differentiate anthropogenic pollution from oceanic sources. The research identifies three groups of Pb isotope ratios: one linked to an unidentified pollutant source, another suggesting a mix of continental pollutants and oceanic water, and the third representing clear oceanic influence. These findings highlight significant isotopic differences due to human activities, providing a valuable tool for tracing changing pollutant sources in marine environments. The study used sediment samples from two sectors of Paraty Bay, analyzing Pb isotope ratios (208Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, 206Pb/204Pb) via MC-ICP-MS to discriminate between domestic sewage, industrial, and geogenic sources.

Geraldes, M. C., Pereira, S. D., Villena, H. H., & Herms, F. W. e. (2015). Pb Isotopes Study in Recent Sediments from Paraty Bay (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil): Antropogenic Versus Oceanic Signatures. International Journal of Geosciences, 06(07), 645–655. https://doi.org/10.4236/ijg.2015.67052