Abstract
The sterol composition, including the fecal biomarker coprostanol, from a variety of sample types was determined by capillary gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The coprostanol concentration in field samples readily provided an estimate of human fecal pollution. The technique was successfully used for stormwater, the sea-surface microlayer, beach sands and greases, and in regional studies of coastal sediments. Sterol profiles can be used to distinguish human and non-human sources of sewage pollution and algal blooms. Development of appropriate component ratios, both within the sterol fraction and between compounds classes, may provide a useful mechanism to further exploit sterol data. For sewage-containing samples, it may be possible to extend the data comparison, and calculation of key ratios, to include bacteriological parameters. Collectively, the use of sterol compositional data can complement other physical, chemical and biological measurements obtained in environmental studies.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.