Using dendrochemical analysis of multi-stem tree species as a tool in forensic hydrogeology
by Baldwin, Patrick Michael, M.S., NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY, 2010, 153 pages; 1477011

Abstract:

Metal processing at a former refinery in Illinois has led to contamination of the surrounding soil and vegetation. The vegetation growing on the site is representative of disturbance-related communities, containing tree species that have not been the focus of tree-ring chemistry studies. Tree cores from Acer negundo and Rhus typhina growing on the site and soil samples were collected and analyzed using ICP-MS.

Elemental analysis of soils showed high concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn while being depleted in Al, Ca, K, and Na. Nickel concentrations were found to be 7-fold higher than the comparison site, with no significant differences in the tree-ring chemistry between the sites. Differences in several elements may suggest greater tolerance of heavy metals and lower nutritional demands by sumacs compared to boxelders. Further research is warranted on both species to determine the usefulness of each in dendroanalytical studies of a short-term nature.

 
AdvisersMelissa Lenczewski; Lesley Rigg
SchoolNORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
SourceMAI/ 48-05, p. , Jul 2010
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsGeology; Environmental geology; Analytical chemistry
Publication Number1477011
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