Vertical distribution of elements in overbank sediment profiles from Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands

Abstract Major and trace element variations in overbank sediment profiles in the border area of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands are described. 14 C and pollen dating, as well as identification of artifacts, were used to evaluate whether the lowermost overbank sediments are pristine or contain anthropogenic input. The variety of lithological units in the different catchment areas is clearly reflected by the element concentrations and associations in the oldest overbank sediments. Areas where PbZn mineralization occurs can be delineated by elevated Pb and Zn values in overbank sediments. The history of PbZn mining in the study area, and the beginning of industrialisation, can be recognised on the basis of typical element associations in the overbank sediment sequence. The heavy-metal concentrations of the oldest overbank sediments can be used as background values for stream sediments in polluted areas. It is, therefore, possible to estimate the degree of anthropogenic contamination during the course of history.