Adsorption of Metals to Particles in Urban Stormwater Runoff—Does Size Really Matter?

The parameter total suspended solids (TSS) is often used to evaluate the need for stormwater treatment or assess effectiveness of measures. purpose this study analyze value and limitations approach using metals as an example. They are major concern due their accumulating effects in environment. Data a monitoring campaign at facility evaluated. TSS, organic matter associated (Cr, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) were analyzed four different particle size fractions (<63 µm, 63–125 125–250 250–2000 µm). While highest event meant concentrations all found smallest fraction, rather uniform particulate bound metal concentration (mass per mass matter) over first three was detected. Total loads correlated well with TSS even better < 63 µm. However, removal efficiency terms reduction load not reflected sufficiently by µm efficiency.