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Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) in the terrestrial environment
Lars Carlsen1, Mai-Britt Metzon, Jeanette Kjelsmark
1National Environmental Research Institute, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Roskilde, Denmark. lc@ruc.dk
The Science of the Total Environment
|June 27, 2002
Summary
Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) were studied in Roskilde soils. Most soils had low LAS levels, but heavy sludge amendment exceeded proposed soil quality criteria.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Soil Science
Background:
- Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) are common surfactants.
- Understanding LAS occurrence in soils is crucial for environmental risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and concentration of LAS in diverse soil types from Roskilde.
- To compare LAS levels against proposed soil quality criteria.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of LAS in soil samples from eight distinct locations with varied land-use histories.
- Analysis of LAS in sludge and fertilizer samples.
- Comparison of measured LAS concentrations with established soil quality guidelines.
Main Results:
- LAS concentrations in most soil samples were below 1 mg/kg, significantly lower than the 5 mg/kg proposed soil quality criterion.
- Soils with heavy sludge amendment showed LAS concentrations that could exceed the proposed criteria.
- A meadow near a sludge storage area also indicated potential LAS contamination.
Conclusions:
- Standard land-use practices in Roskilde generally result in LAS levels below environmental concern.
- Heavy, long-term sludge application poses a risk of exceeding soil quality criteria for LAS.
- Further monitoring of LAS in sludge-amended soils is recommended.