1
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We ACE, Stickland AD, Clarke BO, Freguia S. The role of suspended biomass in PFAS enrichment in wastewater treatment foams. Water Res 2024; 254:121349. [PMID: 38401288 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Foaming in aerated bioreactors at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) has been identified as an operational issue for decades. However, the affinity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) for air-liquid interfaces suggests that foam harvesting has the potential to become a sustainable method for PFAS removal from sewage. Aerated bioreactors' foams are considered three-phase systems, comprising air, aqueous and solid components, the latter consisting of activated sludge biomass. To achieve a comprehensive understanding of the capability of aerated bioreactors' foams to enrich PFAS, we analysed PFAS concentrations from WWTPs in both the solid and aqueous phases of the collapsed foams (foamate) and underlying bulk mixed liquors. Our findings show that PFAS enrichment occurs not only in the aqueous phase but also in the solid phase of the foamate. This suggests that previous field studies that only analysed the aqueous phase may have underestimated the capability of the aerated bioreactors' foams to enrich PFAS. Fractions of PFOA and PFOS sorbed to the solid phase of the foamate can be as high as 60 % and 95 %, respectively. Our findings highlight the importance of implementing effective foamate management strategies that consider both the aqueous and solid phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Chyi En We
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia; Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Anthony D Stickland
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Stefano Freguia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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2
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Marchiandi J, Alghamdi W, Dagnino S, Green MP, Clarke BO. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals from beverage packaging materials and risk assessment for consumers. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133314. [PMID: 38147747 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of beverage packaging materials on the presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastic, glass, carton, aluminium, and tin canned non-alcoholic beverages. Results showed that 63 EDCs including perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), bisphenols, parabens, benzophenone-type UV-filters, biocides, nitrophenols, and alkylphenols, were detected in 144/162 screened products. Detected ∑63EDC concentrations ranged from 1.3 to 19,600 ng/L. EDC concentrations were higher in beverages packaged in metal cans while lower or no levels were detected in glass, plastic, and carton packaged drinks. Bisphenol levels were higher on average in canned beverages compared to glass (p < 0.01) and plastic products (p < 0.05) produced by the same brand and manufacturer. Two structural isomers of bisphenol A (BPA) were identified in 19 beverages, constituting the first detection in foodstuffs. The calculated daily intake of detected EDCs showed that exposure to BPA from per capita beverage consumption of 364 mL/day are up to 2000-fold higher than the newly revised safety guideline for BPA recommended by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). Overall, these findings suggest that BPA exposure poses a potential health hazard for individuals who regularly consume non-alcoholic beverages packaged in aluminium or tin cans, particularly young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaye Marchiandi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Wejdan Alghamdi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Sonia Dagnino
- Transporters in Imaging and Radiotherapy in Oncology (TIRO), School of Medicine, Direction de la Recherche Fondamentale (DRF), Institut des sciences du vivant Fréderic Joliot, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux énergies alternatives (CEA), Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 28 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France; MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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3
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We ACE, Zamyadi A, Stickland AD, Clarke BO, Freguia S. A review of foam fractionation for the removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from aqueous matrices. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133182. [PMID: 38071776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aqueous matrices is an emerging environmental concern due to their persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic properties. Foam fractionation has emerged as a viable method for removing and concentrating PFAS from aqueous matrices. The method exploits the surface-active nature of the PFAS to adsorb at the air-liquid interfaces of rising air bubbles, resulting in foam formation at the top of a foam fractionator. The removal of PFAS is then achieved through foam harvesting. Foam fractionation has gained increasing attention owing to its inherent advantages, including simplicity and low operational costs. The coupling of foam fractionation with destructive technologies could potentially serve as a comprehensive treatment train for future PFAS management in aqueous matrices. The PFAS-enriched foam, which has a smaller volume, can be directed to subsequent destructive treatment technologies. In this review, we delve into previous experiences with foam fractionation for PFAS removal from various aqueous matrices and critically analyse their key findings. Then, the recent industry advancements and commercial projects that utilise this technology are identified. Finally, future research needs are suggested based on the current challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Chyi En We
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia; Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Arash Zamyadi
- Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Anthony D Stickland
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Stefano Freguia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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4
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Partington JM, Rana S, Szabo D, Anumol T, Clarke BO. Comparison of high-resolution mass spectrometry acquisition methods for the simultaneous quantification and identification of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:895-912. [PMID: 38159142 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-05075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Simultaneous identification and quantification of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were evaluated for three quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF) acquisition methods. The acquisition methods investigated were MS-Only, all ion fragmentation (All-Ions), and automated tandem mass spectrometry (Auto-MS/MS). Target analytes were the 25 PFAS of US EPA Method 533 and the acquisition methods were evaluated by analyte response, limit of quantification (LOQ), accuracy, precision, and target-suspect screening identification limit (IL). PFAS LOQs were consistent across acquisition methods, with individual PFAS LOQs within an order of magnitude. The mean and range for MS-Only, All-Ions, and Auto-MS/MS are 1.3 (0.34-5.1), 2.1 (0.49-5.1), and 1.5 (0.20-5.1) pg on column. For fast data processing and tentative identification with lower confidence, MS-Only is recommended; however, this can lead to false-positives. Where high-confidence identification, structural characterisation, and quantification are desired, Auto-MS/MS is recommended; however, cycle time should be considered where many compounds are anticipated to be present. For comprehensive screening workflows and sample archiving, All-Ions is recommended, facilitating both quantification and retrospective analysis. This study validated HRMS acquisition approaches for quantification (based upon precursor data) and exploration of identification workflows for a range of PFAS compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Partington
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sahil Rana
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, 11418, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tarun Anumol
- Agilent Technologies Inc, Wilmington, DE, 19808, USA
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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5
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Foord CS, Szabo D, Robb K, Clarke BO, Nugegoda D. Hepatic concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in dolphins from south-east Australia: Highest reported globally. Sci Total Environ 2024; 908:168438. [PMID: 37963535 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) concentrations were investigated in hepatic tissue of four dolphin species stranded along the south-east coast of Australia between 2006 and 2021; Burrunan dolphin (Tursiops australis), common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus), and short-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis). Two Burrunan dolphin populations represented in the dataset have the highest reported global population concentrations of ∑25PFAS (Port Phillip Bay median 9750 ng/g ww, n = 3, and Gippsland Lakes median 3560 ng/g ww, n = 8), which were 50-100 times higher than the other species reported here; common bottlenose dolphin (50 ng/g ww, n = 9), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (80 ng/g ww, n = 1), and short-beaked common dolphin (61 ng/g ww, n = 12). Also included in the results is the highest reported individual ∑25PFAS (19,500 ng/g ww) and PFOS (18,700 ng/g ww) concentrations, at almost 30 % higher than any other Cetacea reported globally. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was above method reporting limits for all samples (range; 5.3-18,700 ng/g ww), and constituted the highest contribution to overall ∑PFAS burdens with between 47 % and 99 % of the profile across the dataset. The concentrations of PFOS exceed published tentative critical concentrations (677-775 ng/g) in 42 % of all dolphins and 90 % of the critically endangered Burrunan dolphin. This research reports for the first time novel and emerging PFASs such as 6:2 Cl-PFESA, PFMPA, PFEECH and FBSA in marine mammals of the southern hemisphere, with high detection rates across the dataset. It is the first study to show the occurrence of PFAS in the tissues of multiple species of Cetacea from the Australasian region, demonstrating high global concentrations for inshore dolphins. Finally, it provides key baseline knowledge to the potential exposure and bioaccumulation of PFAS compounds within the coastal environment of south-east Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantel S Foord
- Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Bundoora, Australia; Marine Mammal Foundation, Mentone, VIC.
| | - Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius Väg 16C, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kate Robb
- Marine Mammal Foundation, Mentone, VIC
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
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6
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Partington JM, Marchiandi J, Szabo D, Gooley A, Kouremenos K, Smith F, Clarke BO. Validating blood microsampling for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances quantification in whole blood. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1713:464522. [PMID: 38041975 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Microsampling allows the collection of blood samples using a method which is inexpensive, simple and minimally-invasive, without the need for specially-trained medical staff. Analysis of whole blood provides a more holistic understanding of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) body burden. Capillary action microsamplers (Trajan hemaPEN®) allow the controlled collection of whole blood as dried blood spots (DBS) (four 2.74 µL ± 5 %). The quantification of 75 PFAS from DBS was evaluated by comparing five common extraction techniques. Spiked blood (5 ng/mL PFAS) was extracted by protein precipitation (centrifuged; filtered), acid-base liquid-liquid extraction, trypsin protease digestion, and weak anion exchange (WAX) solid-phase extraction with analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Filtered protein precipitation was the most effective extraction method, recovering 72 of the 75 PFAS within 70 to 130 % with method reporting limit (MRL) for PFOS of 0.17 ng/L and ranging between 0.05 ng/mL and 0.34 ng/mL for all other PFAS. The optimised method was applied to human blood samples to examine Inter- (n = 7) and intra-day (n = 5) PFAS blood levels in one individual. Sixteen PFAS were detected with an overall Σ16PFAS mean = 6.3 (range = 5.7-7.0) ng/mL and perfluorooctane sulfonate (branched and linear isomers, ΣPFOS) = 3.3 (2.8-3.7) ng/mL being the dominant PFAS present. To the authors knowledge, this minimally invasive self-sampling protocol is the most extensive method for PFAS in blood reported and could be a useful tool for large scale human biomonitoring studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Partington
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Trajan Scientific and Medical, Ringwood, Victoria 3134, Australia
| | - Jaye Marchiandi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Drew Szabo
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE11418, Sweden
| | - Andrew Gooley
- Trajan Scientific and Medical, Ringwood, Victoria 3134, Australia
| | | | - Fraser Smith
- Trajan Scientific and Medical, Ringwood, Victoria 3134, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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7
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Szabo D, Marchiandi J, Samandra S, Johnston JM, Mulder RA, Green MP, Clarke BO. High-resolution temporal wastewater treatment plant investigation to understand influent mass flux of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). J Hazard Mater 2023; 447:130854. [PMID: 36701979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to identify sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and reveals previously undescribed variability in daily PFAS concentrations by measuring their occurrence in WWTP influent each hour over the course of a week. ∑50PFAS concentrations ranged between 89 ± 38 on Monday and 173 ± 110 ng L-1 on Friday, where perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), disubstituted phosphate esters (diPAPs), and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs) contributed the largest proportion to overall weekly concentrations 37%, 30%, and 17% respectively. Simultaneous pulse events of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS; 400 ng L-1) and perfluoroheptanesulfonic acid (PFHpS; 18 ng L-1) indicate significant industrial or commercial waste discharge that persists for up to 3 h. The minimum number of hourly grab samples required to detect variation of PFOS and PFHpS concentrations are 7 and 9 samples respectively, indicating a high degree of variability in PFAS concentrations between days. Overall, the risk of sampling bias from grab samples is high given the variability in PFAS concentrations and more frequent sampling campaigns must be balanced against the cost of analysis carefully to avoid the mischaracterisation of mass flux to receiving surface waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm 11418, Sweden
| | - Jaye Marchiandi
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Subharthe Samandra
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Julia M Johnston
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Raoul A Mulder
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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8
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Samandra S, Singh J, Plaisted K, Mescall OJ, Symons B, Xie S, Ellis AV, Clarke BO. Quantifying environmental emissions of microplastics from urban rivers in Melbourne, Australia. Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 189:114709. [PMID: 36821931 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to understand the amount and type of microplastics flowing into Port Phillip Bay from urban rivers around Melbourne. Water samples were collected from the Patterson, Werribee, Maribyrnong, and Yarra Rivers, which contribute 97 % to the total flow into Port Phillip Bay. On average, the rivers contained a mean of 9 ± 15 microplastics/L and ranged from 4 ± 3 microplastics/L (Patterson) to 22 ± 11 microplastics/L (Werribee). Of the eight polymers investigated, polyamide and polypropylene were the most frequently detected polymers. Using the mean concentration of each river, the flow of microplastics into Port Philip Bay was estimated to be 7.5 × 106 microplastics per day and 3.7 × 1010 microplastics per year. To fully understand the fate and transport of microplastics into Port Phillip Bay, this study would be the foundation for a more in-depth investigation. Here, further samples will be collected at more points along the river and at the midpoint of each season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subharthe Samandra
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Jai Singh
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Katie Plaisted
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | | | - Bob Symons
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Shay Xie
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Amanda V Ellis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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9
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Rana S, Marchiandi J, Partington JM, Szabo D, Heffernan AL, Symons RK, Xie S, Clarke BO. Identification of novel polyfluoroalkyl substances in surface water runoff from a chemical stockpile fire. Environ Pollut 2022; 313:120055. [PMID: 36055454 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In 2018, over 30,000 L of fluorine-free firefighting foam was used to extinguish an industrial warehouse fire of uncharacterized chemical and industrial waste. Contaminated firewater and runoff were discharged to an adjacent freshwater creek in Melbourne, Australia. In this study, we applied nontarget analysis using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS) to 15 surface water samples to investigate the presence of legacy, novel and emerging per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). We identified six novel and emerging fluorotelomer-based fluorosurfactants in the Australian environment for the first time, including: fluorotelomer sulfonamido betaines (FTABs or FTSA-PrB), fluorotelomer thioether amido sulfonic acids (FTSASs), and fluorotelomer sulfonyl amido sulfonic acids (FTSAS-So). Legacy PFAS including C6-C8 perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids, C4-C10 perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids, and perfluoro-4-ethylcyclohexanesulfonate were also detected in surface water. Of note, we report the first environmental detection of ethyl 2-ethenyl-2-fluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl) cyclopropane-1-carboxylate. Analysis of several Class B certified fluorine-free foam formulations allowed for use in Australia revealed that there was no detectable PFAS. Patterns in the homologue profiles of fluorotelomers detected in surface water are consistent with environments impacted by fluorinated aqueous film-forming foams. These results provide strong evidence that firewater runoff of stockpiled fluorinated firefighting foam was the dominant source of detectable PFAS to the surrounding environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahil Rana
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia; Eurofins Environment Testing Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jaye Marchiandi
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Jordan M Partington
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Drew Szabo
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Amy L Heffernan
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert K Symons
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shay Xie
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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10
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Samandra S, Mescall OJ, Plaisted K, Symons B, Xie S, Ellis AV, Clarke BO. Assessing exposure of the Australian population to microplastics through bottled water consumption. Sci Total Environ 2022; 837:155329. [PMID: 35513155 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics in the environment is substantially documented; however, the pathways of dietary exposure to microplastics are not yet well understood. This is the first study to document the presence of microplastics in bottled water sold in Australia from commercial outlets. In total, 16 brands of bottled water (Australian Sourced: n = 11, Imported: n = 5) sold in the two largest supermarkets in Australia were analysed in triplicate (n = 48) for the presence of polyethylene, PE; polystyrene, PS; polypropylene, PP; polyvinyl chloride, PVC; polyethylene terephthalate, PET; polycarbonate, PC; polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA; and polyamide, PA. Microplastics were detected in 94% (n = 15) of the samples, with PP (n = 14, 88%), PET (n = 10, 63%), PA (n = 7, 44%), and PE (n = 6, 38%) the most frequently detected. On average, a litre of bottled water contained 13 ± 19 (St Dev) microplastics, ranging from 0 to 80 microplastics/L. The average size of the microplastics identified in this study was 77 ± 22 μm. It was found that bottled water sourced and packaged overseas contained four times as many microplastics compared to bottled water sourced in Australia. It was estimated that in 2017, 28.3% of the Australian population consumed on average 30.8 L of bottled water; therefore, using the result from this study it is estimated that Australians are exposed to 400 microplastics annually through the consumption of bottled water. To understand the total amount of microplastics that Australians could be exposed to through dietary routes, further work is required to observe the presence of microplastics in other beverages and food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subharthe Samandra
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Olivia J Mescall
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia; School of Science/School of Global, Urban, and Social Studies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, La Trobe Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Katie Plaisted
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia; Centre for Anthropogenic Pollution Impact and Management, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bob Symons
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Shay Xie
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Amanda V Ellis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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11
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Szabo D, Moodie D, Green MP, Mulder RA, Clarke BO. Field-Based Distribution and Bioaccumulation Factors for Cyclic and Aliphatic Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) in an Urban Sedentary Waterbird Population. Environ Sci Technol 2022; 56:8231-8244. [PMID: 35678721 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c01965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The field-based distribution and bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were determined in residential Black Swans (Cygnus atratus) from an urban lake (Melbourne, Australia). The concentrations of 46 aliphatic and cyclic PFASs were determined by HPLC-MS/MS in serum and excrement from swans, and water, sediment, aquatic macrophytes, soil, and grass samples in and around the lake. Elevated concentrations of ∑46PFASs were detected in serum (120 ng mL-1) and excrement (110 ng g-1 dw) were strongly related indicating a potential noninvasive sampling methodology. Environmental concentrations of PFASs were consistent with a highly impacted ecosystem and notably high concentrations of perfluoro-4-ethylcyclohexanesulfonate (PFECHS, 67584-42-3; C8HF15SO3) were detected in water (27 ng L-1) and swan serum (16 ng mL-1). In the absence of credible putative alternative sources of PFECHS input to the lake, we propose that the use of high-performance motorsport vehicles is a likely source of contamination to this ecosystem. The BAF of perfluorocarboxylic acids increased with each additional CF2 moiety from PFOA (15.7 L kg-1 ww) to PFDoDA (3615 L kg-1 ww). The BAF of PFECHS was estimated as 593 L kg-1 ww, which is lower compared with that of PFOS (1097 L kg-1 ww).
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
| | - Damien Moodie
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
- School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia 3001
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
| | - Raoul A Mulder
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010
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Szabo D, Nuske MR, Lavers JL, Shimeta J, Green MP, Mulder RA, Clarke BO. A baseline study of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in waterfowl from a remote Australian environment. Sci Total Environ 2022; 812:152528. [PMID: 34954161 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Elevated concentrations of PFASs in the liver may pose a toxicological risk to bird species and humans that consume them. This study aimed to determine concentrations of 43 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in livers (n = 80) of Australian Shelducks (Tadorna tadornoides), Pacific Black Ducks (Anas superciliosa), and Teals (Anas sp.), as well as water and sediment from a remote Australian environment. Maximum concentrations of PFBA (1.9 ng L-1), PFOA (1.7 ng L-1) and PFOS (0.99 ng L-1) in water were consistent with long-range atmospheric and oceanic transport. PFOS (30%) and PFNA (22%) were the most frequently detected PFASs in Australian Shelduck livers (0.31 ± 0.68 ng g-1 ww and 0.16 ± 0.15 ng g-1 ww respectively). Maximum concentrations of PFOS in Pacific Black Ducks (50%) and Teals (44%) was 2.4 ng g-1 ww and 5.3 ng g-1 ww respectively. While PFAS levels in birds from this remote environment were below current animal consumption guidelines, continued monitoring of this ecosystem is recommended to assess the human health risk of consumption of wild game.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Madison R Nuske
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 7004, Australia
| | - Jeff Shimeta
- School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Raoul A Mulder
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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Samandra S, Johnston JM, Jaeger JE, Symons B, Xie S, Currell M, Ellis AV, Clarke BO. Microplastic contamination of an unconfined groundwater aquifer in Victoria, Australia. Sci Total Environ 2022; 802:149727. [PMID: 34461481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This is the first study to show microplastics contamination in an alluvial sedimentary aquifer that has been capped from the atmosphere. Microplastics are often reported in biotic and abiotic environments, but little is known about their occurrence in groundwater systems. In this study, eight of the most commonly found microplastics in the environment (polyethylene, PE; polystyrene, PS; polypropylene, PP; polyvinyl chloride, PVC; polyethylene terephthalate, PET; polycarbonate, PC; polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA; and polyamide, PA) were analysed in triplicate groundwater samples (n = 21) from five sampling sites across seven capped groundwater monitoring bores from Bacchus Marsh (Victoria, Australia) using Agilent's novel Laser Direct Infra-Red (LDIR) imaging system. Microplastics were detected in all samples, with PE, PP, PS and PVC detected in all seven bores. The average size of the microplastics identified was 89 ± 55 μm (St.Dev.), ranging from 18 to 491 μm. The average number of microplastics detected across all sites was 38 ± 8 microplastics/L, ranging from 16 to 97 particles/L. PE and PVC in total contributed to 59% of the total sum of microplastics detected. PE was consistently detected in all seven bores (average: 11 particles/L), while PVC was more pronounced in a bore adjacent to a meat processor (52 particles/L) compared to that of its overall average of 12 particles/L. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between PVC and PS (R = 0.934, p ≤0.001). As this study collected samples from capped groundwater bores, the most probable avenue for microplastics was permeation through soil. Therefore, to further understand the fate and transport of microplastics within a groundwater system, it is necessary to analyse a greater range of groundwater bores not only from Australia but throughout the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subharthe Samandra
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Julia M Johnston
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Julia E Jaeger
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Bob Symons
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Shay Xie
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Matthew Currell
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Amanda V Ellis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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Marchiandi J, Szabo D, Dagnino S, Green MP, Clarke BO. Occurrence and fate of legacy and novel per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in freshwater after an industrial fire of unknown chemical stockpiles. Environ Pollut 2021; 278:116839. [PMID: 33740602 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.116839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An industrial warehouse illegally storing a large quantity of unknown chemical and industrial waste ignited in an urban area in Melbourne, Australia. The multiday fire required firefighters to use large amounts of fluorine-free foam that carried contaminated firewater runoff into an adjacent freshwater creek. In this study, the occurrence and fate of 42 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) was determined from triplicate surface water samples (n = 45) from five locations (upstream, point-source, downstream; 8 km) over three sampling campaigns from 2018 to 2020. Out of the 42 target PFASs, perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs: C4-C14), perfluoroalkane sulfonates (PFSAs: C4-C10), and perfluoroalkyl acid precursors (e.g. 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA)) were ubiquitously detected in surface waters (concentration ranges: <0.7-3000 ng/L). A significant difference in ΣPFAS concentration was observed at the point-source (mean 5500 ng/L; 95% CI: 4800, 6300) relative to upstream sites (mean 100 ng/L; 95% CI: 90, 110; p ≤ 0.001). The point-source ΣPFAS concentration decreased from 5500 ± 1200 ng/L to 960 ± 42 ng/L (-83%) after two months and to 430 ± 15 ng/L (-98%) two years later. 6:2 FTSA and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) dominated in surface water, representing on average 31% and 20% of the ΣPFAS, respectively. Emerging PFASs including a cyclic perfluoroalkanesulfonate (PFECHS) and a C4 perfluoroalkane sulfonamide (FBSA) were repeatedly present in surface water (concentration ranges <0.3-77 ng/L). According to the updated Australian PFAS guidelines for ecological conservation, the water samples collected at the time of monitoring may have posed a short-term risk to aquatic organisms in regard to PFOS levels. These results illustrate that acute high dose exposure to PFASs can result from industrial fires at sites storing or stockpiling PFAS-based waste products. Continued monitoring will be crucial to evaluate potential long-term risk to wildlife in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaye Marchiandi
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Drew Szabo
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sonia Dagnino
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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Moodie D, Coggan T, Berry K, Kolobaric A, Fernandes M, Lee E, Reichman S, Nugegoda D, Clarke BO. Legacy and emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in Australian biosolids. Chemosphere 2021; 270:129143. [PMID: 33429237 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Biosolids samples were collected from 19 Australian WWTPs during 2018 that cover a range of catchment types (urban, rural, industrial waste discharges) and treatment technologies. Samples were analysed for 44 PFAS using isotope dilution and alkaline extraction coupled with quantification with LC-MS/MS. The Σ44PFAS mean concentration was 260 ng/g dry weight (dw) and ranged between 4.2 and 910 ng/g dw. The dominant compound class detected were the di-substituted phosphate esters (Σ3PAPs mean 140 ng/g dw; range ND - 730 ng/g dw) which contributed 45% of the total mean Σ44PFAS mass, followed by perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (Σ11PFCAs mean 39 ng/g dw; range 2.3-120 ng/g dw) contributing 17%, and the perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (Σ8PFSAs mean 28 ng/g dw; range 0.9-220 ng/g) which contributed 16%. Using the population data supplied by the participating WWTPs, the mean annual estimated biosolids-associated PFAS contribution is 6 mg per person per year and ranged between 0.6 mg and 15 mg. A similar population normalised concentration regardless of WWTP, region or capacity suggests that the domestic environment provides the baseline PFAS loading. Statistically significant higher Σ44PFAS and PFOS concentrations were observed at urban locations. A weak correlation was observed between annual mass of PFAS associated with each individual WWTP and their percentage industrial waste contribution. This may be important for elevated PFAS concentrations observed in WWTPs with higher industrial waste inputs and requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Moodie
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia; Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Timothy Coggan
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Kathryn Berry
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Adam Kolobaric
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Milena Fernandes
- SA Water, GPO Box 1751, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia; College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Elliot Lee
- Water Corporation, Leederville, Western Australia, 6007, Australia
| | - Suzie Reichman
- Centre for Anthropogenic Pollution Impact and Management (CAPIM), School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Dayanthi Nugegoda
- School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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Szabo D, Lavers JL, Shimeta J, Green MP, Mulder RA, Clarke BO. Correlations between Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Body Morphometrics in Fledgling Shearwaters Impacted by Plastic Consumption from a Remote Pacific Island. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021; 40:799-810. [PMID: 33170512 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the concentrations of 45 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in fledgling flesh-footed shearwater (Ardenna carneipes; n = 33) and wedge-tailed shearwater (A. pacifica; n = 9) livers via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and their relationship to body morphometrics and ingested plastic mass recorded in 2019 on Lord Howe Island (NSW, Australia). Sixteen PFASs were detected, of which perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) was the dominant compound, detected in 100% of birds (1.34-13.4 ng/g wet wt). Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, including perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA; <0.04-0.79 ng/g wet wt) and perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA; <0.05-1.6 ng/g wet wt) were detected in >50% of birds. There was a positive correlation between PFDA and PFTrDA concentrations and wing chord length (Rs = 0.36, p = 0.0204; Rs = 0.44, p = 0.0037, respectively), and between PFDA concentrations and total body mass (Rs = 0.33, p = 0.032), suggesting that these compounds may impact shearwater fledgling morphometrics. Plastic was present in the intestinal tract of 79% of individuals (<7.6 g), although there was no correlation between PFAS concentrations and plastic mass, indicating that ingested plastic is not the likely primary exposure source. The widespread occurrence of PFASs in fledgling marine birds from a relatively pristine location in the Southern Hemisphere suggests that further studies in adult shearwaters and other marine birds are warranted to investigate whether there are any long-term physiological effects on bird species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:799-810. © 2020 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Szabo
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jeff Shimeta
- School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raoul A Mulder
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Calvert L, Green MP, De Iuliis GN, Dun MD, Turner BD, Clarke BO, Eamens AL, Roman SD, Nixon B. Assessment of the Emerging Threat Posed by Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances to Male Reproduction in Humans. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:799043. [PMID: 35356147 PMCID: PMC8959433 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.799043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Per-fluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of synthetic fluorinated chemicals used widely in industry and consumer products. Due to their extensive use and chemical stability, PFAS are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and as such, form an emerging risk factor for male reproductive health. The long half-lives of PFAS is of particular concern as the propensity to accumulate in biological systems prolong the time taken for excretion, taking years in many cases. Accordingly, there is mounting evidence supporting a negative association between PFAS exposure and an array of human health conditions. However, inconsistencies among epidemiological and experimental findings have hindered the ability to definitively link negative reproductive outcomes to specific PFAS exposure. This situation highlights the requirement for further investigation and the identification of reliable biological models that can inform health risks, allowing sensitive assessment of the spectrum of effects of PFAS exposure on humans. Here, we review the literature on the biological effects of PFAS exposure, with a specific focus on male reproduction, owing to its utility as a sentinel marker of general health. Indeed, male infertility has increasingly been shown to serve as an early indicator of a range of co-morbidities such as coronary, inflammatory, and metabolic diseases. It follows that adverse associations have been established between PFAS exposure and the incidence of testicular dysfunction, including pathologies such as testicular cancer and a reduction in semen quality. We also give consideration to the mechanisms that render the male reproductive tract vulnerable to PFAS mediated damage, and discuss novel remediation strategies to mitigate the negative impact of PFAS contamination and/or to ameliorate the PFAS load of exposed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Calvert
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Mark P. Green
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Geoffry N. De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew D. Dun
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett D. Turner
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Geotechnical Science and Engineering, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Bradley O. Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew L. Eamens
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
| | - Shaun D. Roman
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Drug Development, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brett Nixon,
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McGrath TJ, Kolobaric A, Lee E, Clarke BO. Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in Western Australian biosolids and implications for land application. Chemosphere 2020; 260:127601. [PMID: 32688318 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the prevalence of eight priority polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs; -28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, -183 and -209) and six novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs; pentabromotoluene (PBT), pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB), hexabromobenzene (HBB), 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB), 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)ethane (BTBPE) and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE)) in biosolids samples from 15 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Western Australia. Analytes were extracted using selective pressurized liquid extraction (S-PLE) and quantified by gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) operated in electron impact (EI) ionization mode. ∑8PBDE levels in biosolids ranged from 11 to 18,000 μg/kg dw with a median concentration of 1800 μg/kg dw. BDE-209 was the most prevalent congener constituting a median of 98% of ∑8PBDE concentrations in samples with BDE-99, -47 and -100 each typically contributing less than 3% to total levels. NBFRs were detected in 71% of samples with ∑6NBFR levels ranging between ND-1100 μg/kg dw (median; 600 μg/kg dw). Levels of DBDPE greatly exceeded those of all other NBFRs, while the next most prevalent compounds were EH-TBB and HBB. Australia produced approximately 327,000 dry tonnes of biosolids in 2017, of which approximately 75% was beneficially utilized on farmland as a fertilizer. Based on these results, an estimated 440 kg of BDE-209 and 150 kg of DBDPE are applied to agricultural land via biosolids applications annually in Australia. This study provides the first account of NBFR concentrations in Australian biosolids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J McGrath
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Adam Kolobaric
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia
| | - Elliot Lee
- Water Corporation, 629 Newcastle Street, Leederville, WA, 6007, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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19
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Askeland M, Clarke BO, Cheema SA, Mendez A, Gasco G, Paz-Ferreiro J. Biochar sorption of PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFHxA in two soils with contrasting texture. Chemosphere 2020; 249:126072. [PMID: 32045751 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The ability to immobilise PFAS in soil may be an essential interim tool while technologies are developed for effective long-term treatment of PFAS contaminated soils. Serial sorption experiments were undertaken using a pine derived biochar produced at 750 °C (P750). All experiments were carried out either in individual mode (solution with one PFAS at 5 μg/L) or mix mode (solution with 5 μg/L of each: PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFHxA), and carried out in 2:1 water to soil solutions. Soils had biochar added in the range 0-5% w/w. Kinetic data were fitted to the pseudo-second order model for both amended soils, with equilibrium times ranging 0.5-96 h for all congeners. PFOS sorption was 11.1 ± 4.5% in the loamy sand compared to 69.8 ± 4.9% in the sandy clay loam. While total sorption was higher in the unamended loamy sand than sandy clay loam for PFHxA, PFOA and PFOS, the effect of biochar amendment for each compound was found to be significantly higher in amended sandy clay loam than in amended loamy sand. Application of biochar reduced the desorbed PFAS fraction of all soils. Soil type and experimental mode played a significant role in influencing desorption. Overall, the relationship between sorbent and congener was demonstrated to be highly impacted by soil type, however the unique physiochemical properties of each PFAS congener greatly influenced its unique equilibrium, sorption and desorption behaviour for each amended soil and mode tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Askeland
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Sardar Alam Cheema
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Ana Mendez
- Department of Geological and Mining Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Gasco
- Department of Agricultural Production, Technical University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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Hassell KL, Coggan TL, Cresswell T, Kolobaric A, Berry K, Crosbie ND, Blackbeard J, Pettigrove VJ, Clarke BO. Dietary Uptake and Depuration Kinetics of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate, Perfluorooctanoic Acid, and Hexafluoropropylene Oxide Dimer Acid (GenX) in a Benthic Fish. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020; 39:595-603. [PMID: 31751491 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously distributed throughout aquatic environments and can bioaccumulate in organisms. We examined dietary uptake and depuration of a mixture of 3 PFAS: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA; C8 HF15 O2 ), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS; C8 HF17 SO3 ), and hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HPFO-DA; C6 HF11 O3 ; trade name GenX). Benthic fish (blue spot gobies, Pseudogobius sp.) were fed contaminated food (nominal dose 500 ng g-1 ) daily for a 21-d uptake period, followed by a 42-d depuration period. The compounds PFOA, linear-PFOS (linear PFOS), and total PFOS (sum of linear and branched PFOS) were detected in freeze-dried fish, whereas GenX was not, indicating either a lack of uptake or rapid elimination (<24 h). Depuration rates (d-1 ) were 0.150 (PFOA), 0.045 (linear-PFOS), and 0.042 (linear+branched-PFOS) with corresponding biological half-lives of 5.9, 15, and 16 d, respectively. The PFOS isomers were eliminated differently, resulting in enrichment of linear-PFOS (70-90%) throughout the depuration period. The present study is the first reported study of GenX dietary bioaccumulation potential in fish, and the first dietary study to investigate uptake and depuration of multiple PFASs simultaneously, allowing us to determine that whereas PFOA and PFOS accumulated as expected, GenX, administered in the same way, did not appear to bioaccumulate. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:595-603. © 2019 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Hassell
- Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Aquatic Environmental Stress Research Group, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy L Coggan
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Institute for Environmental Research, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Kirrawee, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam Kolobaric
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kathryn Berry
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Vincent J Pettigrove
- Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Aquatic Environmental Stress Research Group, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Coggan TL, Moodie D, Kolobaric A, Szabo D, Shimeta J, Crosbie ND, Lee E, Fernandes M, Clarke BO. An investigation into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in nineteen Australian wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Heliyon 2019; 5:e02316. [PMID: 31485522 PMCID: PMC6716228 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantifying the emissions of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from Australian wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) is of high importance due to potential impacts on receiving aquatic ecosystems. The new Australian PFAS National Environmental Management Plan recommends 0.23 ng L-1 of PFOS as the guideline value for 99% species protection for aquatic systems. In this study, 21 PFAS from four classes were measured in WWTP solid and aqueous samples from 19 Australian WWTPs. The mean ∑21PFAS was 110 ng L-1 (median: 80 ng L-1; range: 9.3-520 ng L-1) in aqueous samples and 34 ng g-1 dw (median: 12 ng g-1 dw; range: 2.0-130 ng g-1 dw) in WWTP solids. Similar to WWTPs worldwide, perfluorocarboxylic acids were generally higher in effluent, compared to influent. Partitioning to solids within WWTPs increased with increasing fluoroalkyl chain length from 0.05 to 1.22 log units. Many PFAS were highly correlated, and PCA analysis showed strong associations between two groups: odd chained PFCAs, PFHxA and PFSAs; and 6:2 FTS with daily inflow volume and the proportion of trade waste accepted by WWTPs (as % of typical dry inflow). The compounds PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, and PFDA increased significantly between influent and final effluent. The compounds 6:2 FTS and 8:2 FTS were quantified and F-53B detected and reported in Australian WWTP matrices. The compound 6:2 FTS was an important contributor to PFAS emissions in the studied Australian WWTPs, supporting the need for future research on its sources (including precursor degradation), environmental fate and impact in Australian aquatic environments receiving WWTP effluent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy L Coggan
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
| | - Damien Moodie
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
| | - Adam Kolobaric
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
| | - Drew Szabo
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
| | - Jeff Shimeta
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
| | - Nicholas D Crosbie
- Applied Research, Melbourne Water Corporation, Docklands, VIC, 3001, Australia.,Faculty of Engineering, University of New South Wales, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Elliot Lee
- Water Corporation, Leederville, Western Australia, 6007, Australia
| | - Milena Fernandes
- SA Water, GPO Box 1751, Adelaide SA, 5001, Australia.,College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic., 3001, Australia
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22
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Szabo D, Coggan TL, Robson TC, Currell M, Clarke BO. Investigating recycled water use as a diffuse source of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) to groundwater in Melbourne, Australia. Sci Total Environ 2018; 644:1409-1417. [PMID: 30743853 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) to groundwater at a location where recycled water from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is used to irrigate crops. Groundwater from Werribee South, located west of Melbourne, Australia, was sampled over two campaigns in 2017 and 2018, extracted using solid phase extraction (SPE) and analysed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS-QQQ). PFASs were detected in 100% of the groundwater samples. The sum total of twenty PFAS compounds (∑20PFASs) for all sites in the study ranged from <0.03 to 74 ng/L (n = 28) and the highest levels of which were observed in the centre of the irrigation district. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) was the most detected compound overall (96%) with a mean concentration of 11 ng/L (<0.03-34 ng/L), followed by perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS; 86%, 4.4 ng/L), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA; 82%, 2.2 ng/L) and perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA; 77%, 6.1 ng/L). Concentrations of PFASs found in this study are greater than background levels of PFASs detected in groundwater and are in the range of concentrations typically detected in wastewater effluent. This study presents evidence that the use of recycled water can be a source of PFAS contamination to groundwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew Szabo
- School of Science, RMIT University, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Timothy L Coggan
- School of Science, RMIT University, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Timothy C Robson
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, PO Box 362, Malvern, Victoria 3144, Australia
| | - Matthew Currell
- School of Science, RMIT University, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Science, RMIT University, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
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23
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Mikkonen HG, van de Graaff R, Mikkonen AT, Clarke BO, Dasika R, Wallis CJ, Reichman SM. Environmental and anthropogenic influences on ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil. Environ Pollut 2018; 242:1838-1849. [PMID: 30082154 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Excess exposure to fluoride causes substantive health burden in humans and livestock globally. However, few studies have assessed the distribution and controls of variability of ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil. Ambient background concentrations of fluoride in soil were collated for Greater Melbourne, Greater Geelong, Ballarat and Mitchell in Victoria, Australia (n = 1005). Correlation analysis and machine learning techniques were used to identify environmental and anthropogenic influences of fluoride variability in soil. Sub-soils (>0.3 m deep), in some areas overlying siltstone and sandstone, and to a lesser extent, overlying basalt, were naturally enriched with fluoride at concentrations above ecological thresholds for grazing animals. Soil fluoride enrichment was predominantly influenced by parent material (mineralogy), precipitation (illuviation), leaching during palaeoclimates and marine inputs. Industrial air pollution did not significantly influence ambient background concentrations of fluoride at a regional scale. However, agricultural practices (potentially the use of phosphate fertilisers) were indicated to have resulted in added fluoride to surface soils overlying sediments. Geospatial variables alone were not sufficient to accurately model ambient background soil fluoride concentrations. A multiple regression model based on soil chemistry and parent material was shown to accurately predict ambient background fluoride concentrations in soils and support assessment of fluoride enrichment in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Mikkonen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; CDM Smith, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raghava Dasika
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Suzie M Reichman
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia.
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24
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Mikkonen HG, van de Graaff R, Clarke BO, Dasika R, Wallis CJ, Reichman SM. Geochemical indices and regression tree models for estimation of ambient background concentrations of copper, chromium, nickel and zinc in soil. Chemosphere 2018; 210:193-203. [PMID: 30005340 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.06.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Geochemical ratios between elements of environmental concern and Fe have been recommended for estimation of "background" concentrations of Cr, Cu, Ni and Zn in soil. However, little research has occurred to assess the consistency of geochemical ratios across soils developed in different environments. Broad application of generic geochemical ratios could result in under or over estimation of anthropogenic impacts to soil and subsequent inaccurate assessment of risk to the environment. A soil survey was undertaken in Victoria, Australia, including collection of samples (n = 622) from surface (0-0.1 m below ground level) and sub-surface (0.3-0.6 m below ground level) soils, overlying Tertiary-Quaternary basalt, Tertiary sediments and Silurian siltstones and sandstones. Samples were analyzed for metals and soil physical and chemical properties (particle size, cation exchange capacity, organic matter and pH). Geochemical correlations between elements in soils from different parent materials and environments were compared against geochemical relationships reported in Australia and internationally. Ratios of Cr and Fe were relatively consistent across parent materials, and comparable to published models for estimation of background Cr. Conversely, ratios between Cu, Ni, and Zn with Fe, were variable between soils developed in different weathering environments and/or soil depths. Alternative regression equations and rule based regression tree models were developed as an improved means for prediction of ambient background Cu, Ni and Zn concentrations in soil. Ambient background concentrations of Ni and Cr were predictable across parent materials and depths, allowing these models to be extended to soils across Australia and potentially internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Mikkonen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; CDM Smith, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raghava Dasika
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Suzie M Reichman
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia.
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25
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McGrath TJ, Morrison PD, Ball AS, Clarke BO. Spatial Distribution of Novel and Legacy Brominated Flame Retardants in Soils Surrounding Two Australian Electronic Waste Recycling Facilities. Environ Sci Technol 2018; 52:8194-8204. [PMID: 30004224 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b02469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Informal recycling of electronic waste (e-waste) has been shown to cause significant brominated flame retardant (BFR) contamination of surrounding soils in a number of Asian and West African countries. However, to the authors' knowledge, there have been no published studies demonstrating polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) and novel brominated flame retardant (NBFR) soil contamination from regulated "formal" e-waste processing facilities in developed countries. This study reports on PBDEs (-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, -183, and -209) and NBFRs (PBT, PBEB, HBB, EH-TBB, BTBPE and DBDPE) in 36 soil samples surrounding two Australian e-waste recycling plants and a further eight reference soils. Overall ∑PBDE concentrations ranged 0.10-98 000 ng/g dw (median; 92 ng/g dw) and ∑NBFRs ranged ND-37 000 ng/g dw (median 2.0 ng/g dw). Concentrations in soils were found to be significantly negatively associated with distance from one of the e-waste facilities for ∑penta-BDEs, BDE-183, BDE-209, and ∑NBFR compound groups. ANOVA tests further illustrated the potential for e-waste recycling to significantly elevate concentrations of some BFRs in soils over distances up to 900 m compared to references sites. This study provides the first evidence of soil contamination with PBDEs and NBFRs originating from formal e-waste recycling facilities in Australia, which may have implications for e-waste recycling practices throughout the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J McGrath
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science , RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne , Victoria 3001 , Australia
| | - Paul D Morrison
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science , RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne , Victoria 3001 , Australia
- Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), School of Science , RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne , Victoria 3001 , Australia
| | - Andrew S Ball
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science , RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne , Victoria 3001 , Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science , RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne , Victoria 3001 , Australia
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26
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Mikkonen HG, Dasika R, Drake JA, Wallis CJ, Clarke BO, Reichman SM. Evaluation of environmental and anthropogenic influences on ambient background metal and metalloid concentrations in soil. Sci Total Environ 2018; 624:599-610. [PMID: 29272829 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.12.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
There has been a global shift in environmental risk assessment towards quantifying ambient background concentrations of metals/metalloids in soil. Whilst bedrock has been shown to be a key driver of metal/metalloid variability in soil, few researchers have assessed controls of ambient background concentrations in soils of similar bedrock. A soil survey was undertaken ofGreater Melbourne, Greater Geelong, Ballarat and Mitchell in Victoria, Australia for elements of potential environmental concern: As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Hg, Pb and Zn. Samples (n=622) were collected from surface (0 to 0.1m) and sub-surface (0.3 to 0.6m) soils, overlying Tertiary-Quaternary basalt, Tertiary sediments and Silurian siltstone and sandstone. In addition, background soil data from open-source environmental assessment reports (n=5512) were collated to support the understanding of natural enrichment, particularly at depths >0.6m. Factor analysis, supported by correlation analysis and auxiliary geo-spatial data, provided an improved understanding of where and how background metal/metalloid enrichment occurs in the environment. Weathering during paleoclimates was the predominant influence of background metal/metalloid variability in soils overlying similar bedrock. Other key influences of metal/metalloid variability in soil included hydraulic leaching of alkali elements, biological cycling, topography and alluvial transfer of silt and sand from mineralised regions. In addition, urbanisation positively correlated with Pb and Zn concentrations in surface soils suggesting that anthropogenic activities may have resulted in diffuse Pb and Zn contamination of urban soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Mikkonen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; CDM Smith, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raghava Dasika
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica A Drake
- Centre for Applied Sciences, EPA Victoria, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzie M Reichman
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia.
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McGrath TJ, Morrison PD, Ball AS, Clarke BO. Concentrations of legacy and novel brominated flame retardants in indoor dust in Melbourne, Australia: An assessment of human exposure. Environ Int 2018; 113:191-201. [PMID: 29428609 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and novel brominated flame retardants (NBFR) have been used in a range of polymers to inhibit the spread of fires but also have a propensity to migrate out of consumer materials and contaminate indoor dust. In this study, a total of 57 dust samples were collected from 12 homes, eight offices and eight vehicles in Melbourne, Australia and analysed for eight PBDEs (-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, -183 and -209) and seven NBFRs (PBT, PBEB, HBB, EH-TBB, BEH-TEBP, BTBPE and DBDPE) to determine human exposure risks from dust ingestion. Samples were analysed using selective pressurized liquid extraction (S-PLE) and gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Legacy and replacement flame retardants were detected in all samples with overall ∑PBDE concentrations ranging from 120 to 1700,000 ng/g (median 2100 ng/g) and ∑NBFRs ranging from 1.1 to 10,000 ng/g (median 1800 ng/g). BDE-209 and DBDPE were the dominant compounds in dust samples, followed by congeners associated with commercial Penta-BDE formulations (-47, -99, -100, -153 and -154) and then EH-TBB of the FireMaster 550 and BZ-54 products. ∑Penta-BDE concentrations were elevated in office samples compared with homes and vehicles, while EH-TBB and BDE-209 measured higher concentrations in vehicles compared with their respective levels in homes and offices. Risk assessment estimates revealed the majority of exposure to occur in the home for both adults and toddlers in the City of Melbourne. Generally, body weight adjusted exposure to PBDEs and NBFRs was predicted to be 1 to 2 orders of magnitude higher for toddlers than adults. Estimated rates of BDE-47, -99, -153 and -209 ingestion were each 2 orders of magnitude or more below the USEPA's prescribed oral reference dose values (RfDs) for typical exposure scenarios. However, exposure rates for BDE-47 and -99 reached as high as 52 and 95% of RfDs, respectively, for adults and 4.4 and 7.4%, respectively, for toddlers in high exposure scenarios. This study provides the first wide-ranging survey of NBFRs in indoor dust from homes, offices and vehicles in Australia and offers further evidence of human exposure to legacy and novel brominated flame retardants via dust ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J McGrath
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Paul D Morrison
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Andrew S Ball
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (EnSuRe), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia.
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Mikkonen HG, Clarke BO, Dasika R, Wallis CJ, Reichman SM. Evaluation of methods for managing censored results when calculating the geometric mean. Chemosphere 2018; 191:412-416. [PMID: 29049962 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there are conflicting views on the best statistical methods for managing censored environmental data. The method commonly applied by environmental science researchers and professionals is to substitute half the limit of reporting for derivation of summary statistics. This approach has been criticised by some researchers, raising questions around the interpretation of historical scientific data. This study evaluated four complete soil datasets, at three levels of simulated censorship, to test the accuracy of a range of censored data management methods for calculation of the geometric mean. The methods assessed included removal of censored results, substitution of a fixed value (near zero, half the limit of reporting and the limit of reporting), substitution by nearest neighbour imputation, maximum likelihood estimation, regression on order substitution and Kaplan-Meier/survival analysis. This is the first time such a comprehensive range of censored data management methods have been applied to assess the accuracy of calculation of the geometric mean. The results of this study show that, for describing the geometric mean, the simple method of substitution of half the limit of reporting is comparable or more accurate than alternative censored data management methods, including nearest neighbour imputation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Mikkonen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; CDM Smith, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Raghava Dasika
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Suzie M Reichman
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia.
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McGrath TJ, Ball AS, Clarke BO. Critical review of soil contamination by polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs); concentrations, sources and congener profiles. Environ Pollut 2017; 230:741-757. [PMID: 28732337 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used in a broad array of polymeric materials such as plastics, foams, resins and adhesives to inhibit the spread of fires since the 1970s. The widespread environmental contamination and well documented toxic effects of PBDEs have led to bans and voluntary withdrawals in many jurisdictions. Replacement novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) have, however, exhibited many of the same toxic characteristics as PBDEs and appear to share similar environmental fate. This paper presents a critical review of the scientific literature regarding PBDE and NBFR contamination of surface soils internationally, with the secondary objective of identifying probable pollution sources. An evaluation of NBFR distribution in soil was also conducted to assess the suitability of the newer compounds as replacements for PBDEs, with respect to their land contamination potential. Principle production of PBDEs and NBFRs and their consequent use in secondary polymer manufacture appear to be processes with strong potential to contaminate surrounding soils. Evidence suggests that PBDEs and NBFRs are also released from flame retarded products during disposal via landfill, dumping, incineration and recycling. While the land application of sewage sludge represents another major pathway of soil contamination it is not considered in this review as it is extensively covered elsewhere. Both PBDEs and NBFRs were commonly detected at background locations including Antarctica and northern polar regions. PBDE congener profiles in soil were broadly representative of the major constituents in Penta-, Octa- and Deca-BDE commercial mixtures and related to predicted market place demand. BDE-209 dominated soil profiles, followed by BDE-99 and BDE-47. Although further research is required to gain baseline data on NBFRs in soil, the current state of scientific literature suggests that NBFRs pose a similar risk to land contamination as PBDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J McGrath
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic. 3001, Australia
| | - Andrew S Ball
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic. 3001, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Vic. 3001, Australia.
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Martin JM, Saaristo M, Bertram MG, Lewis PJ, Coggan TL, Clarke BO, Wong BBM. The psychoactive pollutant fluoxetine compromises antipredator behaviour in fish. Environ Pollut 2017; 222:592-599. [PMID: 28063712 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals are increasingly being detected in aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Particularly concerning are pharmaceutical pollutants that can adversely impact exposed wildlife, even at extremely low concentrations. One such contaminant is the widely prescribed antidepressant fluoxetine, which can disrupt neurotransmission and behavioural pathways in wildlife. Despite this, relatively limited research has addressed the behavioural impacts of fluoxetine at ecologically realistic exposure concentrations. Here, we show that 28-day fluoxetine exposure at two ecologically relevant dosages-one representing low surface water concentrations and another representing high effluent flow concentrations-alters antipredator behaviour in Eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). We found that fluoxetine exposure at the lower dosage resulted in increased activity levels irrespective of the presence or absence of a predatory dragonfly nymph (Hemianax papuensis). Additionally, irrespective of exposure concentration, fluoxetine-exposed fish entered the predator 'strike zone' more rapidly. In a separate experiment, fluoxetine exposure reduced mosquitofish freezing behaviour-a common antipredator strategy-following a simulated predator strike, although, in females, this reduction in behaviour was seen only at the lower dosage. Together, our findings suggest that fluoxetine can cause both non-monotonic and sex-dependent shifts in behaviour. Further, they demonstrate that exposure to fluoxetine at environmentally realistic concentrations can alter antipredator behaviour, with important repercussions for organismal fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Martin
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Minna Saaristo
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; Environmental and Marine Biology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Michael G Bertram
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Phoebe J Lewis
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy L Coggan
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bob B M Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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Mikkonen HG, Clarke BO, Dasika R, Wallis CJ, Reichman SM. Assessment of ambient background concentrations of elements in soil using combined survey and open-source data. Sci Total Environ 2017; 580:1410-1420. [PMID: 28024745 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.12.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding ambient background concentrations in soil, at a local scale, is an essential part of environmental risk assessment. Where high resolution geochemical soil surveys have not been undertaken, soil data from alternative sources, such as environmental site assessment reports, can be used to support an understanding of ambient background conditions. Concentrations of metals/metalloids (As, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were extracted from open-source environmental site assessment reports, for soils derived from the Newer Volcanics basalt, of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. A manual screening method was applied to remove samples that were indicated to be contaminated by point sources and hence not representative of ambient background conditions. The manual screening approach was validated by comparison to data from a targeted background soil survey. Statistical methods for exclusion of contaminated samples from background soil datasets were compared to the manual screening method. The statistical methods tested included the Median plus Two Median Absolute Deviations, the upper whisker of a normal and log transformed Tukey boxplot, the point of inflection on a cumulative frequency plot and the 95th percentile. We have demonstrated that where anomalous sample results cannot be screened using site information, the Median plus Two Median Absolute Deviations is a conservative method for derivation of ambient background upper concentration limits (i.e. expected maximums). The upper whisker of a boxplot and the point of inflection on a cumulative frequency plot, were also considered adequate methods for deriving ambient background upper concentration limits, where the percentage of contaminated samples is <25%. Median ambient background concentrations of metals/metalloids in the Newer Volcanic soils of Melbourne were comparable to ambient background concentrations in Europe and the United States, except for Ni, which was naturally enriched in the basalt-derived soils of Melbourne.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Mikkonen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia; School of Science, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raghava Dasika
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Suzie M Reichman
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia.
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Saaristo M, McLennan A, Johnstone CP, Clarke BO, Wong BBM. Impacts of the antidepressant fluoxetine on the anti-predator behaviours of wild guppies (Poecilia reticulata). Aquat Toxicol 2017; 183:38-45. [PMID: 27988417 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Chemical pollution from pharmaceuticals is increasingly recognised as a major threat to aquatic communities. One compound of great concern is fluoxetine, which is one of the most widely prescribed psychoactive drugs in the world and frequently detected in the environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 28-d fluoxetine exposure at two environmentally relevant levels (measured concentrations: 4ng/L and 16ng/L) on anti-predator behaviour in wild guppies (Poecilia reticulata). This was achieved by subjecting fluoxetine-exposed and unexposed guppies to a simulated bird strike and recording their subsequent behavioural responses. We found that exposure to fluoxetine affected the anti-predator behaviour of guppies, with exposed fish remaining stationary for longer (i.e. 'freezing' behaviour) after the simulated strike and also spending more time under plant cover. By contrast, control fish were significantly more active and explored the tank more, as indicated by the distance covered per minute over the period fish spent swimming. Furthermore, behavioural shifts were sex-dependent, with evidence of a non-monotonic dose-response among the fluoxetine-exposed fish. This is one of the first studies to show that exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of fluoxetine can alter the anti-predator behaviour of adult fish. In addition to the obvious repercussions for survival, impaired anti-predator behaviour can have direct impacts on fitness and influence the overall population dynamics of species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Saaristo
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Environmental and Marine Biology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
| | - Alisha McLennan
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Sciences, Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bob B M Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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McGrath TJ, Morrison PD, Sandiford CJ, Ball AS, Clarke BO. Widespread polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) contamination of urban soils in Melbourne, Australia. Chemosphere 2016; 164:225-232. [PMID: 27588576 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used as flame retardants in a variety of materials and products. PBDEs have been shown to accumulate in the environment and human populations while exhibiting a range of toxic effects. In this study, surface soil samples from 30 sites in the city of Melbourne, Australia, were analysed for PBDEs. Eight congeners of environmental concern (BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154 -183 and -209) were assessed using selective pressurized liquid extraction (S-PLE) and gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). PBDEs were detected in 29/30 samples with Σ8PBDE soil concentrations ranging nd-13,200 ng/g dw and Σ7PBDEs (excluding BDE-209) levels of nd-70.5 ng/g dw. Soils from waste disposal sites (n = 6) contained the highest median Σ7PBDE and Σ8PBDE concentrations, followed by manufacturing sites (n = 18) and then non-source sites (n = 6). Electronics recycling facilities contained the greatest levels of Σ8PBDEs by a significant margin (p < 0.05) to indicate that these industries are a potential source of contamination. BDE-209 was the dominant congener, contributing an average of 75.5% to Σ8PBDEs soil concentrations, followed by BDE-47, BDE-99 and BDE-183 at 7.90, 5.64 and 4.31%, respectively. Congener profiles reflected global estimates of Deca-BDE, Octa-BDE and Penta- BDE commercial production, with the most significant congener correlation existing between BDE-47 and BDE-99 (p < 0.001, r = 0.943). This first assessment of PBDEs in Melbourne soils indicates widespread contamination of the urban environment, including locations where direct sources to soil are not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J McGrath
- School of Science, Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (ENSURE), RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Paul D Morrison
- School of Science, Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (ENSURE), RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Christopher J Sandiford
- Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association (ACLCA), PO Box 362, Malvern, Victoria 3144, Australia
| | - Andrew S Ball
- School of Science, Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (ENSURE), RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Science, Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation (ENSURE), RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia.
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Wardrop P, Shimeta J, Nugegoda D, Morrison PD, Miranda A, Tang M, Clarke BO. Chemical Pollutants Sorbed to Ingested Microbeads from Personal Care Products Accumulate in Fish. Environ Sci Technol 2016; 50:4037-44. [PMID: 26963589 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b06280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastics (<5 mm) in natural environments has become a widely recognized global problem. Microplastics have been shown to sorb chemical pollutants from their surrounding environment, thus raising concern as to their role in the movement of these pollutants through the food chain. This experiment investigated whether organic pollutants sorbed to microbeads (MBs) from personal care products were assimilated by fish following particle ingestion. Rainbow fish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis) were exposed to MBs with sorbed polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs; BDE-28, -47, -100, -99, -153, -154, -183, 200 ng g(-1); BDE-209, 2000 ng g(-1)) and sampled at 0, 21, 42, and 63 days along with two control treatments (food only and food + clean MBs). Exposed fish had significantly higher Σ8PBDE concentrations than both control treatments after just 21 days, and continued exposure resulted in increased accumulation of the pollutants over the experiment (ca. 115 pg g(-1) ww d(-1)). Lower brominated congeners showed the highest assimilation whereas higher brominated congeners did not appear to transfer, indicating they may be too strongly sorbed to the plastic or unable to be assimilated by the fish due to large molecular size or other factors. Seemingly against this trend, however, BDE-99 did not appear to bioaccumulate in the fish, which may be due to partitioning from the MBs or it being metabolized in vivo. This work provides evidence that MBs from personal care products are capable of transferring sorbed pollutants to fish that ingest them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Wardrop
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Jeff Shimeta
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Dayanthi Nugegoda
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Paul D Morrison
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Ana Miranda
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
| | - Min Tang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Tropical Island Resources, Ministry of Education; School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hainan University , Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Centre for Environmental Sustainability and Remediation, RMIT University , GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
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Rigby H, Clarke BO, Pritchard DL, Meehan B, Beshah F, Smith SR, Porter NA. A critical review of nitrogen mineralization in biosolids-amended soil, the associated fertilizer value for crop production and potential for emissions to the environment. Sci Total Environ 2016; 541:1310-1338. [PMID: 26476511 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.08.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
International controls for biosolids application to agricultural land ensure the protection of human health and the environment, that it is performed in accordance with good agricultural practice and that nitrogen (N) inputs do not exceed crop requirements. Data from the scientific literature on the total, mineral and mineralizable N contents of biosolids applied to agricultural land under a wide range of climatic and experimental conditions were collated. The mean concentrations of total N (TN) in the dry solids (DS) of different biosolids types ranged from 1.5% (air-dried lime-treated (LT) biosolids) to 7.5% (liquid mesophilic anaerobic digestion (LMAD) biosolids). The overall mean values of mineralizable N, as a proportion of the organic N content, were 47% for aerobic digestion (AeD) biosolids, 40% for thermally dried (TD) biosolids, 34% for LT biosolids, 30% for mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD) biosolids, and 7% for composted (Com) biosolids. Biosolids air-dried or stored for extended periods had smaller total and mineralizable N values compared to mechanically dewatered types. For example, for biosolids treated by MAD, the mean TN (% DS) and mineralizable N (% organic N) contents of air-dried materials were 3% and 20%, respectively, compared to 5% and 30% with mechanical dewatering. Thus, mineralizable N declined with the extent of biological stabilization during sewage sludge treatment; nevertheless, overall plant available N (PAN=readily available inorganic N plus mineralizable N) was broadly consistent across several major biosolids categories within climatic regions. However, mineralizable N often varied significantly between climatic regions for similar biosolids types, influencing the overall PAN. This may be partly attributed to the increased rate, and also the greater extent of soil microbial mineralization of more stable, residual organic N fractions in biosolids applied to soil in warmer climatic zones, which also raised the overall PAN, compared to cooler temperate areas. It is also probably influenced by differences in upstream wastewater treatment processes that affect the balance of primary and secondary, biological sludges in the final combined sludge output from wastewater treatment, as well as the relative effectiveness of sludge stabilization treatments at specific sites. Better characterization of biosolids used in N release and mineralization investigations is therefore necessary to improve comparison of system conditions. Furthermore, the review suggested that some international fertilizer recommendations may underestimate mineralizable N in biosolids, and the N fertilizer value. Consequently, greater inputs of supplementary mineral fertilizer N may be supplied than are required for crop production, potentially increasing the risk of fertilizer N emissions to the environment. Thus greater economic and environmental savings in mineral N fertilizer application are potentially possible than are currently realized from biosolids recycling programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Rigby
- Department of Environment and Agriculture, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley WA 6102, Australia; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, LaTrobe St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Deborah L Pritchard
- Department of Environment and Agriculture, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley WA 6102, Australia
| | - Barry Meehan
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, LaTrobe St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Firew Beshah
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, LaTrobe St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Stephen R Smith
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Nichola A Porter
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, LaTrobe St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarun Anumol
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering; University of Arizona; Tucson
- Agilent Technologies; Wilmington Del
| | - Bradley O. Clarke
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering; University of Arizona; Tucson
- RMIT University; School of Applied Sciences; Melbourne Australia
| | - Sylvain Merel
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering; University of Arizona; Tucson
- Department of Geosciences; University of Tübingen; Tübingen Germany
| | - Shane A. Snyder
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering; University of Arizona; Tucson
- National University of Singapore Environmental Research Institute; Singapore
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Clarke BO, Anumol T, Barlaz M, Snyder SA. Investigating landfill leachate as a source of trace organic pollutants. Chemosphere 2015; 127:269-75. [PMID: 25753851 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Revised: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Landfill leachate samples (n=11) were collected from five USA municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills and analyzed for ten trace organic pollutants that are commonly detected in surface and municipal wastewater effluents (viz., carbamazepine, DEET, fluoxetine, gemfibrozil, PFOA, PFOS, primidone, sucralose, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim). Carbamazepine, DEET, PFOA and primidone were detected in all leachate samples analyzed and gemfibrozil was detected in samples from four of the five-landfill sites. The contaminants found in the highest concentrations were DEET (6900-143000 ng L(-1)) and sucralose (<10-621000 ng L(-1)). Several compounds were not detected (fluoxetine) or detected infrequently (sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim and PFOS). Using the average mass of DEET in leachate amongst the five landfills and scaling the mass release from the five test landfills to the USA population of landfills, an order of magnitude estimate is that over 10000 kg DEET yr(-1) may be released in leachate. Some pharmaceuticals have similar annual mean discharges to one another, with the estimated annual discharge of carbamazepine, gemfibrozil, primidone equating to 53, 151 and 128 kg year(-1). To the authors knowledge, this is the first time that primidone has been included in a landfill leachate study. While the estimates developed in this study are order of magnitude, the values do suggest the need for further research to better quantify the amount of chemicals sent to wastewater treatment facilities with landfill leachate, potential impacts on treatment processes and the significance of landfill leachate as a source of surface water contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley O Clarke
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona, 1657 E Helen St, Tucson, AZ, USA; RMIT University, School of Applied Sciences, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne 3001, Australia
| | - Tarun Anumol
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona, 1657 E Helen St, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Morton Barlaz
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7908, Raleigh, NC 27695-7908, USA
| | - Shane A Snyder
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona, 1657 E Helen St, Tucson, AZ, USA; National University of Singapore, NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), 5A Engineering Drive 1, T-Lab Building, #02-01, Singapore 117411, Singapore.
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Chua EM, Shimeta J, Nugegoda D, Morrison PD, Clarke BO. Assimilation of polybrominated diphenyl ethers from microplastics by the marine amphipod, Allorchestes compressa. Environ Sci Technol 2014; 48:8127-34. [PMID: 24884099 DOI: 10.1021/es405717z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic particles (MPPs; <5 mm) are found in skin cleansing soaps and are released into the environment via the sewage system. MPPs in the environment can sorb persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that can potentially be assimilated by organisms mistaking MPPs for food. Amphipods (Allorchestes compressa) exposed to MPPs isolated from a commercial facial cleansing soap ingested ≤45 particles per animal and evacuated them within 36 h. Amphipods were exposed to polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDEs) congeners (BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154, and -183) in the presence or absence of MPPs. This study has demonstrated that PBDEs derived from MPPs can be assimilated into the tissue of a marine amphipod. MPPs reduced PBDE uptake compared to controls, but they caused greater proportional uptake of higher-brominated congeners such as BDE-154 and -153 compared to BDE-28 and -47. While MPPs in the environment may lower PBDE uptake compared to unabsorbed free chemicals, our study has demonstrated they can transfer PBDEs into a marine organism. Therefore, MPPs pose a risk of contaminating aquatic food chains with the potential for increasing public exposure through dietary sources. This study has demonstrated that MPPs can act as a vector for the assimilation of POPs into marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M Chua
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University , Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
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Anumol T, Merel S, Clarke BO, Snyder SA. Ultra high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for rapid analysis of trace organic contaminants in water. Chem Cent J 2013; 7:104. [PMID: 23777604 PMCID: PMC3707776 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-7-104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The widespread utilization of organic compounds in modern society and their dispersion through wastewater have resulted in extensive contamination of source and drinking waters. The vast majority of these compounds are not regulated in wastewater outfalls or in drinking water while trace amounts of certain compounds can impact aquatic wildlife. Hence it is prudent to monitor these contaminants in water sources until sufficient toxicological data relevant to humans becomes available. A method was developed for the analysis of 36 trace organic contaminants (TOrCs) including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, steroid hormones (androgens, progestins, and glucocorticoids), personal care products and polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) using a single solid phase extraction (SPE) technique with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The method was applied to a variety of water matrices to demonstrate method performance and reliability. Results UHPLC-MS/MS in both positive and negative electrospray ionization (ESI) modes was employed to achieve optimum sensitivity while reducing sample analysis time (<20 min) compared with previously published methods. The detection limits for most compounds was lower than 1.0 picogram on the column while reporting limits in water ranged from 0.1 to 15 ng/L based on the extraction of a 1 L sample and concentration to 1 mL. Recoveries in ultrapure water for most compounds were between 90-110%, while recoveries in surface water and wastewater were in the range of 39-121% and 38-141% respectively. The analytical method was successfully applied to analyze samples across several different water matrices including wastewater, groundwater, surface water and drinking water at different stages of the treatment. Among several compounds detected in wastewater, sucralose and TCPP showed the highest concentrations. Conclusion The proposed method is sensitive, rapid and robust; hence it can be used to analyze a large variety of trace organic compounds in different water matrixes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarun Anumol
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, 1133 E James E Rogers Way, Harshbarger 108, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0011, USA
| | - Sylvain Merel
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, 1133 E James E Rogers Way, Harshbarger 108, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0011, USA
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, 1133 E James E Rogers Way, Harshbarger 108, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0011, USA ; School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, 100 LaTrobe St, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Shane A Snyder
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, 1133 E James E Rogers Way, Harshbarger 108, Tucson, AZ, 85721-0011, USA
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Sutcliffe S, Clarke BO, Jones OAH. Steroid oestrogens in the environment: an Australian perspective. Water Sci Technol 2013; 68:2317-2329. [PMID: 24334878 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2013.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been in the scientific spotlight since the 1980s. However, there has been much less research reported in Australia than in other developed countries and little information is known about how these compounds interact with native Australian species compared to European and North American fauna. This is of concern because Australia has distinct wildlife and environments that face increasing intensity and frequency of extreme, climatic events compared to northern hemisphere countries. Since oestrogenic compounds cannot be prevented from entering wastewater their management and removal must occur at wastewater treatment plants. Biological treatment is the most effective tool in this regard; however the financial and environmental costs must be balanced with the environmental benefit to effectively plan treatment options. Since standard risk assessment models and procedures developed internationally are unlikely to translate well to Australian ecosystems, new, novel and localised research on both the monitoring and assessment of EDCs in Australian wastewater and receiving aquatic environments is recommended. This includes the development of relevant bioassays and application of treatment technologies that reflect the local community and climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Sutcliffe
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia E-mail:
| | - Bradley O Clarke
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia E-mail:
| | - Oliver A H Jones
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia E-mail:
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Clarke BO, Smith SR. Review of 'emerging' organic contaminants in biosolids and assessment of international research priorities for the agricultural use of biosolids. Environ Int 2011; 37:226-47. [PMID: 20797791 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 431] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Revised: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 06/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A broad spectrum of organic chemicals is essential to modern society. Once discharged from industrial, domestic and urban sources into the urban wastewater collection system they may transfer to the residual solids during wastewater treatment and assessment of their significance and implications for beneficial recycling of the treated sewage sludge biosolids is required. Research on organic contaminants (OCs) in biosolids has been undertaken for over thirty years and the increasing body of evidence demonstrates that the majority of compounds studied do not place human health at risk when biosolids are recycled to farmland. However, there are 143,000 chemicals registered in the European Union for industrial use and all could be potentially found in biosolids. Therefore, a literature review of 'emerging' OCs in biosolids has been conducted for a selection of chemicals of potential concern for land application based upon human toxicity, evidence of adverse effects on the environment and endocrine disruption. To identify monitoring and research priorities the selected chemicals were ranked using an assessment matrix approach. Compounds were evaluated based upon environmental persistence, human toxicity, evidence of bioaccumulation in humans and the environment, evidence of ecotoxicity and the number and quality of studies focussed on the contaminant internationally. The identified chemicals of concern were ranked in decreasing order of priority: perfluorinated chemicals (PFOS, PFOA); polychlorinated alkanes (PCAs), polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs); organotins (OTs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), triclosan (TCS), triclocarban (TCC); benzothiazoles; antibiotics and pharmaceuticals; synthetic musks; bisphenol A, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), steroids; phthalate acid esters (PAEs) and polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMSs). A number of issues were identified and recommendations for the prioritisation of further research and monitoring of 'emerging' OCs for the agricultural use of biosolids are provided. In particular, a number of 'emerging' OCs (PFOS, PFOA and PCAs) were identified for priority attention that are environmentally persistent and potentially toxic with unique chemical properties, or are present in large concentrations in sludge, that make it theoretically possible for them to enter human and ecological food-chains from biosolids-amended soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley O Clarke
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, South Kensington Campus, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Clarke BO, Porter NA, Marriott PJ, Blackbeard JR. Investigating the levels and trends of organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyl in sewage sludge. Environ Int 2010; 36:323-329. [PMID: 20171737 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2009] [Revised: 01/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/22/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A study was completed to investigate temporal trends of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs; aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin, heptachlor, hexachlorbenzene, and DDT) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in sewage sludge. Between 2004 and 2006 the concentration of OCPs and PCBs in Australian sewage sludge (n=829) was consistently <1000mugkg(-1) dry solids DS. Dieldrin, chlordane and DDE were detected in 68%, 27% and 13% at maximum concentrations of 770, 290 and 270 microgkg(-1) DS, respectively. Time series analysis (1995-2006) of OCPs and PCBs sewage sludge concentrations (n=2266) taken from six wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) of the same geographic region found that lindane, aldrin HCB, heptachlor, DDT, DDD and PCBs were infrequently detected (<8%). A correlation between dieldrin and chlordane levels was found (P<0.05) which provides evidence of similar environmental mechanisms facilitating movement of dieldrin and chlordane through environment compartments. It has taken more than 10years for dieldrin and chlordane to reduce to less than detectable concentrations in freshly generated sewage sludge in Australia following government restrictions. Internationally, reported sewage sludge OCP concentrations were consistently low and often less than detection limits. Therefore, OCPs are not considered to be a contaminant of regulatory concern for countries that phased out OCP use several decades ago. Concentrations of PCBs in sewage sludge were also consistently low and rarely exceeded European contaminant limits and therefore, regulatory limits may warrant review. The authors recommend that Australian authorities revise regulatory requirements for OCP and PCBs contaminant levels in sewage sludge destined for beneficial reuse as biosolids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley O Clarke
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia; Water Quality Research Australia, Adelaide, Australia (formerly Co-operative Research Centre for Water Quality and Treatment-Wastewater Program, Melbourne, Australia).
| | - Nichola A Porter
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia; Water Quality Research Australia, Adelaide, Australia (formerly Co-operative Research Centre for Water Quality and Treatment-Wastewater Program, Melbourne, Australia)
| | | | - Judy R Blackbeard
- Water Quality Research Australia, Adelaide, Australia (formerly Co-operative Research Centre for Water Quality and Treatment-Wastewater Program, Melbourne, Australia)
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Clarke BO, Porter NA, Symons RK, Marriott PJ, Stevenson GJ, Blackbeard JR. Investigating the distribution of polybrominated diphenyl ethers through an Australian wastewater treatment plant. Sci Total Environ 2010; 408:1604-1611. [PMID: 20116086 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.11.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2009] [Revised: 11/21/2009] [Accepted: 11/28/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to quantify the amount of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) released into the environment (biosolids, effluent) from a conventional Australian activated sludge treatment wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The concentration of PBDE congeners was measured at various treatment stages and included four aqueous samples (raw, primary, secondary and tertiary effluents) and three sludges (primary, secondary and lime stabilized biosolids), collected at three sampling events over the course of the experiment (29 days). Semi-permeable membrane devices (SPMDs) were also installed for the duration of the experiment, the first time that SPMDs have been used to measure PBDEs in a WWTP. Over 99% of the PBDEs entering the WWTP were removed through the treatment processes, principally by sedimentation. The main congeners detected were BDE 47, 99 and 209, which are characteristic of the two major commercial formulations viz penta-BDE and deca-BDE. All the PBDE congeners measured were highly correlated with each other, suggesting a similar origin. In this case, the PBDEs are thought to be from domestic sources since domestic wastewater is the main contribution to the in-flow (approximately 95%). The mean concentration of SigmaPBDEs in chemically stabilized sewage sludge (biosolids) was 300microg kg(-1) dry weight. It is calculated that 2.3+/-0.3kg of PBDEs are disposed of each year with biosolids generated from the WWTP. If all Australian sewage sludge is contaminated to at least this concentration then at least 110kg of PBDEs are associated with Australian sewage sludge annually. Less than 10g are released annually into the environment via ocean outfall and field irrigation; this level of contamination is unlikely to pose risk to humans or the environment. The environmental release of treated effluent and biosolids is not considered a large source of PBDE environmental emissions compared to the quantities used annually in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley O Clarke
- School of Applied Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia.
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