The analysis of non-polar organic compounds in aquatic matrices presents several challenges due to factors such as the low concentrations and mixtures of contaminants, the presence of interferences, and the requirement of a large sample volume. Developing methods capable of simultaneously analyzing multiple classes of compounds at relatively low concentrations is a critical issue in environmental science. The aim of this study was to develop an extraction method for the simultaneous analysis of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and selected emerging contaminants (organic UV filters and fragrances) in aquatic systems using passive samplers. The silicone rubber passive samplers were fortified with a solution containing a known concentration of the selected contaminants. Extraction tests were performed using ultrasound with different mixtures of solvents: dichloromethane:hexane (v:v, 1:1, 2:1), methanol:dichloromethane (v:v, 1:1), acetonitrile:methanol (v:v, 3:1, 1:1). Analyses were performed in a gas chromatograph coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Results showed that the best mixture of solvents tested was dichloromethane:hexane with a volume ratio of 2:1, which had analyte recovery ranging from 42-133% and relative standard deviation lower than 25%. The method will be validated in the field through the exposure of passive samplers in coastal regions, contributing to the understanding of the occurrence, spatial and temporal variations, as well as the potential sources of contaminants in seawater.

Primary Presenter: Adrielle Martins, Federal University of Bahia (adriellebmartins@gmail.com)

Authors:

Adrielle Martins, Federal University of Bahia  (adriellebmartins@gmail.com)

Ana Cecília Albergaria-Barbosa, Federal University of Bahia  (cecilia.albergaria@ufba.br)

Tamires Matos-Barbosa, Federal University of Bahia  (tam.mattos@gmail.com)

Tatiane Combi, Federal University of Bahia  (tatiane.combi@ufba.br)