Brine-induced advection of dissolved aromatic hydrocarbons to Arctic bottom waters

Laboratory test-tank experiments and an oceanographic field programme carried out in the Chukchi sea near point Franklin, Alas., confirmed the phenomenon of surface brine extrusion during sea ice formation, followed by sinking and eventual gravity-induced flow along the bottom. Small quantities of dissolved aromatic hydrocarbons resulting from spills of crude oil or refined products during periods of ice growth could be transported to the benthos with sinking brine. These aromatic components would no longer be subject to loss by evaporation and could only be diluted by eventual mixing with uncontaminated water. This would proceed only slowly during the ice-covered period. There are 46 references.