Processes affecting the behavior of dissolved aluminum in estuarine waters

Although it is well-known that reactions occur within estuaries to alter the flux of dissolved aluminum from rivers into the oceans, the nature and relative importance of these reactions are not well defined. In this study we show that sediment-water interactions can have a significant influence on dissolved Al distributions in estuaries. Undisturbed sediments will act as a sink for dissolved Al because of diffusion across the sediment-water interface and reaction of Al within the sediment. Resuspension of sediments will cause a release of dissolved Al into relatively Si-depleted estuarine waters. Flocculation of colloidal material may cause a net consumption of dissolved Al in estuaries. Our results indicate, however, that this process may not, in many cases, be the primary cause for curvature in Al-Cl^- profiles. An alternative model, whereby Al is displaced from organic matter complexes and adsorption sites in the estuarine zone and reacts with Si and cations in solution, is consistent with the data presented in this study as well as many other studies. In this case, the extent of net Al removal in estuaries will be determined by both the amount and nature of the dissolved organic matter present.