Influence of linear alkyl benzene sulphonate on the distribution of hexachlorocyclohexane isomers among sediment-water and biota compartments

Abstract

The distribution of gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and its conversion to the alpha-isomer from gamma-HCH-loaded sediment in the presence and absence of linear alkyl benzene sulphonate (LAS) in an experimental system with sediment, water and Lemna minor (L) were studied. The LAS facilitated conversion of gamma-isomer to the alpha-isomer. The magnitude of conversion was in the order Lemna > water > sediment. Along with the enhanced release of HCH from sediment, LAS also enhanced silica dissolution. The ecotoxicological significance of these data are discussed.