Abstract
Due to strong regulation of phthalates, non-phthalate plasticizers (NPPs) have been introduced to the industrial market. In this study, concentrations of 16 phthalates and five NPPs in sediment were measured to investigate the occurrence, potential source, and ecotoxicological implications of these contaminants. Phthalates and NPPs were detected in all sediment samples, indicating ubiquitous contaminants. Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM) were the dominant for phthalates and NPPs, respectively, implying emerging contamination by TOTM. Spatial distribution of these contaminants showed decreasing gradients from inner to outer bays. Clear declining trends in phthalate and NPP concentrations were found in sediment near a wastewater treatment plant outfall, suggesting a potential source of contamination. Approximately 95% of sediment samples exceeded sediment quality guidelines for DEHP suggested by previous studies, implying that benthic organisms are suffering from adverse biological effects. This is the first report on the occurrence of NPPs in the coastal environment.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
