Sorption kinetics of tributyltin on Elbe river biofilms

For the first time detailed sorption kinetics of tributyltin on native Elbe river biofilms are presented. For this purpose a modified annular rotating continuous flow reactor has been used to develop a reproducible biofilm. Important parameters, such as flow rates, sheer forces, and nutrient concentrations could be varied independently and adjusted to natural conditions. Time-resolved sorption kinetics have been carried out with tributyltin, the most toxic compound in many antifouling paints. The highest sorption rates of tributyltin were observed during the first 0–10 min (0.60±0.05 g Sn m^–2min^–1) than they decreased to a value of 0.10±0.10 g Sn m^–2min^–1 (10–90 min) and increased to a value of 0.20±0.05 g Sn m^–2min^–1 (90–120 min).