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The fluxes of oxygen into sediments and the release rate of COD, methane and nitrogen after deposition of fresh sewage sludge were measured in an experimental laboratory apparatus. Effects of the initial surface loading revealed a progressive contribution of COD release to the flux of oxygen equivalent to increased loading. Lower oxygen concentrations had the same effect. The actual conversion rate of the organics in the sediments was lower than the potential maximal aerobic degradation rate and higher than the anaerobic rate of hydrolysis. Preferential oxidation of soluble organics at the sediment interface over particulate material limits the release of COD except for high-loaded systems or at low DO concentrations.
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Lijklema et al. (1990) studied this question.
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