Rapid analysis of 4-nonylphenol by solid phase microextraction in water samples

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Alkylphenols, particularly 4-nonylphenol (4-NP), are recognized endocrine disruptors with environmental presence.
• Understanding 4-NP levels in Mexican water sources is crucial for assessing ecological and health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a sensitive analytical method for 4-NP extraction and quantification in Mexican water.
• To establish current environmental concentrations of 4-NP in various water types across Mexico.

Main Methods:

• Solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for 4-NP analysis.
• Derivatization using N-Methyl-bis(trifluoroacetamide) (MBTFA) to enhance method sensitivity.
• Method validation demonstrating high correlation (R² > 0.99) and low limits of detection and quantification.

Main Results:

• 4-NP was detected in 83% of analyzed water samples.
• Maximum 4-NP concentrations were 12.61 µg/L (recreational), 12.2 µg/L (wastewater), and 6.08 µg/L (drinking water).
• 65% of samples exceeded the EU limit (2 µg/L), and 17% exceeded the EPA limit (6.6 µg/L).

Conclusions:

• The developed SPME-GC-MS method is effective for quantifying 4-NP in water.
• Significant 4-NP contamination exists in Mexican water bodies, with levels frequently surpassing regulatory guidelines.
• Continuous monitoring and regulation are essential to mitigate potential environmental and health impacts of 4-NP exposure in Mexico.