This study presents a quantitative estimation of the simultaneous analysis of 11 priority phenols and phthalate esters in surface waters within the vicinity of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for identification and quantification after initial optimization of derivatization using acetic anhydride and tert-butyl dimethyl silyl. Chemical analysis by GC-MS revealed the presence of DEP, POH, PCP, DEHP, DBP, BBP, 2,4-DMP and 2-NP as the most abundant. Statistical analysis shows that there is correlation between levels of analytes in effluent and downstream water sample, an indication of pollution from the WWTP. From the monitoring exercise, data obtained for most compounds analyzed shows effective removal (approximately 80 to 100%) with exception of 2-nitro phenol that was poorly removed. Health risk assessment for phthalates showed vegetable watering as the most potent source of human exposure to phthalate ester plasticizers.

Chemical monitoring and temporal variation in levels of endocrine disrupting chemicals (priority phenols and phthalate esters) from selected wastewater treatment plants and freshwater systems in Cape Town, South Africa

244th National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.