Extraction Methods of Emerging Pollutants in Sewage Sludge: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Soil Science

Background:

• Sewage sludge (SS) is a common soil amendment, raising concerns about emerging pollutant (EP) dissemination.
• EPs, including flame retardants and pharmaceuticals, pose risks to human health and ecosystems.
• The complex SS matrix and lack of global regulations necessitate robust detection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review extraction methodologies for determining EPs in SS.
• To focus on extraction strategies published between 2010 and 2025.
• To support the development of standardized EP detection in SS.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on EP extraction from SS.
• Analysis of widely used techniques: Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE), Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE), Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE).
• Evaluation of novel methods like Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS).

Main Results:

• UAE, PLE, and MAE are the most prevalent extraction strategies for EPs in SS.
• UAE is preferred due to its broad applicability and cost-effectiveness.
• QuEChERS shows promise for multi-compound analysis.

Conclusions:

• Extraction strategy is critical for accurate EP determination in SS.
• UAE is a highly recommended method for EP extraction from SS.
• Standardized methodologies are needed for routine EP characterization in SS.