Sediment Tracking / Tracing

Sediment (or particle) tracking / tracing is a method used to determine the pathways and rates of sediment transport through the environment. Uniquely labelled tracer particles are introduced into the study area and their spatial distribution is monitored through time. Applications include:

  • Bioturbation studies
  • Contaminated sediment fate/transport field assessments
  • Siltation impact assessment
  • Laboratory sediment transport studies
  • Marine larvae transport studies
  • Scaled physical modelling studies

We use a range of tracers, which are manufactured in-house to the following specifications:

  • Density: 1050 to 3800 kg m-3
  • Size: medium silts to cobbles
  • Fluorescent and magnetic signature

The magnetic signature allows us to capture tracer in any aquatic environment in conjunction with conventional methods (e.g. water and grab samplers). Typical applications include the transport and fate of contaminated estuarine sediments, the impact of dredge plumes on sensitive seabed regions and source-sink pathways in rivers and the sea.

For further details, please contact Dr Kevin Black, kblack@partrac.com.