Quantification of the total suspended matter (TSM) in the sea breaking zone by remote sensing techniques

Abstract

The coastal zone is a dynamic area where processes with different origins and scales interact. Satellite data have been used for monitoring the coastal zone to extract, in a global and systematic way, relevant information for coastal processes. Remote sensing techniques can be used to monitor water quality parameters like suspended sediments. The objective of the work presented here was to establish a relationship between the Total Suspend Matter (TSM) and the seawater reflectance for the sea breaking zone in NW of Portugal. Three experimental methods to determine the relationship between the TSM concentration and the above seawater reflectance were used. Spectral reflectance was measured with a spectroradiometer and water samples were collected simultaneously. A section of the northwest coast of Portugal, centred in Aveiro, was chosen as the test area. Empirical relationships were established for reflectance values from the sensors SPOT/HRVIR, TERRA/ASTER and Landsat/TM at visible and near infrared bands and TSM concentration. A Geographic Information System (GIS) has been developed in order to integrate all the relevant information about the study area.