This year's topic was entitled: "The Use of Equilibrium Passive Sampling for Environmental Investigations". 

The objective of the short course was to provide attendees with an understanding of the theory and fundamental research behind equilibrium passive sampling, provide examples of the use of these devices, examine resultant data in environmental investigations through a series of case studies, and demonstrate commercially-available passive samplers. The use of equilibrium passive sampling is becoming more and more prevalent in sediment investigations that include evaluation of site-specific toxicological potential, where sediment pore water chemical concentrations more accurately predict the toxicity and bio accumulative potential of sediments compared to traditional bulk sediment chemistry. 

The background and theory portion of the short course was taught by Dr. Rainer Lohmann of the University of Rhode Island, an academic researcher with extensive passive sampling experience.  The practical portion of the short course was presented by Michael Healey of SiREM Labs, which has developed commercially viable passive samplers and provides their analysis.

For further information, contact Ken.Finkelstein@noaa.gov.

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