Iron reduction in tidal flat sediment indicated by magnetic measurements and its significance in the study of heavy metal pollution

Magnetic measurements and chemical analysis were conducted on the anoxic core sediment from the tidal flat along the southern bank of Yangtze Estuary. The synchronous increase in magnetite and heavy metal concentration at a depth of 54 cm is revealed, which reflects the anthropogenic input due to the near shore sewage discharge. However, the heavy metal concentration declines at the top of sediment column (4–20 cm) with the reduction of fine magnetite grains, as indicated by the magnetic measurements. It is inferred that selective dissolution of finer magnetite happens under the reduced environment. Such a phenomenon is significant for the heavy metal pollution study in the tidal flat sediments.