Phthalate Esters and Other Industrial Organic Chemicals in the North and Irish Seas

Abstract

Concentrations of a range of industrial organic chemicals (xylene, styrene, chlorobenzene and five phthalate esters) have been determined in surface waters near the Humber, Mersey, Tamar, Tees and Tyne estuaries. Analyses were conducted using GC/MS in the multiple ion detection mode. In general, the highest concentrations (in the ng to µg dm−3 range) for all determinands were found at sites within the estuaries. Selected samples were also analysed by scanning GC/MS and other compounds tentatively identified. There was only minor overlap between the compounds found at each of the estuaries, presumably a reflection of the industrial activities in the area. A preliminary ecotoxicological assessment was made of both datasets.