The evaluation of tributyltin concentrations in the sediments from the Port of Gdynia

Abstract

Tributyltin (TBT) may affect various organisms. TBT has been used in antifouling paints for the protection of ship hulls and hence harbor sediments may contain high concentrations of TBT. This study shows TBT concentrations found in sediments from three basins (No. V, VI, and VIII) of the Port of Gdynia. TBT concentrations ranged from 291 to 1689 ngSn·g-1 d.w. and should be classified as highly contaminated and grossly contaminated [20]. These results indicate that TBT in harbour sediments is an environmental risk that may be emphasized by dredging operations in the region. However, obtained results confirm also the global tendency for depreciating content of TBT in port sediments after the global banning on the use of TBT in 2008.