Changes in the Humic Acid–Metal Complexation Characteristics Depending on Humification Degree / Humīnskābju – Metālu Kompleksveidošanās Rakstura Izmaiņas Atkarībā No Humifikācijas Pakāpes

The aim of this study is to determine the Cu(II) complexing capacity and stability constants of Cu(II) complexes of humic acids isolated from two well-characterized raised bog peat profiles in respect to the basic properties and humification characteristics of the studied peats and their humic acids. The complex stability constants significantly change within the studied bog profiles and are well correlated with the age and decomposition degree of the peat layer from which the humic acids have been isolated. Among factors that influence this complexation process, molecular mass and ability to form micellar structures (supramolecules) of humic substances are of key importance.