Distribution and contamination assessment of trace metals in surface sediments of the South China Sea, Vietnam

The distribution and enrichment of trace metals in sediments of the South China Sea along the entire coast of Vietnam were described. The concentrations of Cr, Ni, Zn, and Pb in the sediments showed a significant positive correlation with fine-sized fractions and TOC. In contrast, the concentration of As was not positively correlated with particle size and other metals. The relatively positive correlations of Cd with Fe, Al, Ti, Sc, TOC, P, Cr, Ni, Zn, and Pb indicated that it comes from different sources. Ecotoxicological indexes of all elements showed low values, except for Cd in the southwestern part of the South China Sea area, which is likely related to the influx of suspended matter from the Mekong River.

Automated summary

The study found that the concentrations of Cr, Ni, Zn, and Pb in South China Sea sediments are significantly positively correlated with fine-sized fractions and TOC, while the concentration of As is not positively correlated with other metals. The relatively positive correlations of Cd with various elements suggest it comes from different sources.