Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Stefania-Adelina MILEA, Maria Daniela (IONICA) MIHAILA, Valentina-Andreea CĂLMUC, Cătălina ITICESCU, Puiu-Lucian GEORGESCU, Alin-Constantin DIRTU, Cătălin Eugen PLATON
Pesticides have been classified as the most harmful substances in the world because of their extensive application, toxicity, and persistence. Hydrophobic chemicals, such as pesticides, have a considerable tendency to sorb to organic matter in sediment and soil. Measuring pesticides in sediment is crucial for monitoring their environmental fate and possible toxicity because they are typically found at higher concentrations in sediment. Since many hydrophobic substances do not break down easily, they remain in the environment for a very long time. This study aims to develop an integrated approach to extracting and quantifying pesticides from sediment samples using QuEChERS-gas chromatography techniques. The extraction of organochlorine and organophosphorus pesticides from the sediment sample was achieved by slightly modifying the QuEChERS method. The extracted compounds were identified and quantified by gas chromatography with a triple-quadrupole mass detector. Organochlorine pesticides or their degradation compounds provided the majority of the target substances. Monitoring pesticide content in sediments is essential for understanding bioaccumulation and long-term environmental effects, as well as for promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
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