Mercury Speciation in Environmental Samples

In the environment, mercury is found in both inorganic forms (such as elemental mercury and ionic mercury) and various organic compounds and complexes. Methylmercury (MeHg), the predominant organic form present in the environment, can bioaccumulate up the food chain in aquatic systems which leads to high concentrations of MeHg in predatory fish. When consumed by humans, this contaminant poses an increased risk of adverse effects in highly exposed or sensitive populations. Due to this tendency of MeHg to bioaccumulate in the environment, extremely low concentrations can have a large impact and the measurement of methyl mercury can be critical in understanding the environmental impact.

In addition, the risk associated with higher concentrations of mercury found in environmental sites can also be strongly associated with the how the inorganic mercury is bound in solids. Mercury found in higher concentrations can potentially have significant vapor phase contributions in the vapor phase due to elemental mercury present and the risk associated with inhalation. These risks demonstrate the necessity for a thorough understanding of the specific mercury species present in environmental samples as it helps identify the associated risks present and can ultimately aid in the selection of more effective treatment options to aid remediation efforts.

Original Airdate:  Tuesday, June 27, 2023
 
Length:  60 minutes 

Presenter: Patrick Garcia-Strickland & Kyle Groden - Eurofins Environment Testing