The occurrence and fate of emerging micropollutants (EMs) in the environment is a function of source strength, hydrodynamics, and susceptibility to environmental degradation. In this study, the spatial and temporal variability of a suite of EMs was investigated in samples collected in the estuarine waters of Puget Sound.  The investigated EMs was comprised of approximately 25 pharmaceuticals (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), food ingredients (caffeine, sucralose), metabolites (paraxanthine, cotinine), and herbicides (atrazine, mecoprop). Spatial variability was investigated via a 3-day, �snapshot� sampling event coordinated with citizen scientists in June of 2013. Temporal variability was investigated through repeated monitoring of an urbanized inlet in Southern Puget Sound over approximately 6 months. Approximately 1 liter of water was collected at all sampling locations, filtered through 0.2 micron filters, adjusted to pH 8, extracted with solid phase extraction, and eluted with organic solvent. Final extract volumes were approximately 1.5 ml, (a concentration factor of approximately 1000). Extracts were analyzed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (triple quadrupole). Method detection limits for most EMs investigated were 80% (acetaminophen, caffeine, paraxanthine) to 0-5% (sulfamethoxine, sulfamethazine). Positive correlations (R2 > 0.6) were observed between carbamazepine and sulfamethoxazole, carbamazepine and sucralose, and theobromine and paraxanthine. Caffeine and paraxanthine were also detected frequently in the routine monitoring, while the sulfonamide antibiotics were infrequently detected.

Emerging micropollutants in Puget Sound: A comparison of spatial and temporal levels and occurrence

247th National Meeting (2014)

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