In-situ dataset of particulate organic carbon in coastal waters

This dataset compiles particulate organic carbon measurements carried out by the LOG (Laboratory of Oceanology and Geosciences) located in Wimereux, France, as part of campaigns conducted primarily in coastal areas of mainland France (between 2003 and 2018), French Guiana (between 2012 and 2017), and Vietnam (between 2011 and 2015). Samples were collected using 25mm GF/F filters, which were first calcined at 450°C for 4 hours to eliminate all organic matter. The filters were stored in packs of 20 in small aluminium pouches until filtration. Water was collected using Niskin bottles. A volume of 0.2L to 2L was generally filtered to maximize the amount of material collected on the filter without clogging it. Several blanks were performed to estimate potential contamination that may have occurred during storage or filtration. The filters were dried after filtration and then stored dry until analysis. The inorganic carbon fraction was removed by placing the filters in contact with fuming hydrochloric acid for 4 hours. Analyses were performed using ThermoFisher Scientific CHN elemental analyzers, calibrated with certified acetanilide, sulfanilamide, and aspartic acid powders. The filtered volumes were taken into account to provide results in terms of carbon concentration (in µg/L).