High throughput analysis of contaminants of emerging concern in complex matrices

Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) occur across diverse aquatic matrices, but their reliable quantification remains challenging because of large differences in matrix composition. This study developed and validated a rapid online solid-phase extraction coupled with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (online-SPE-UPLC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of 46 pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, pesticides, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Method performance was evaluated in six matrices: tap water, river water, wastewater influent and effluent, and untreated and treated landfill leachate. The method was validated by evaluating compound- and matrix-dependent limits of quantification (LOQs), matrix effects and recoveries. Pronounced matrix-induced ion suppression was observed before internal-standard correction, particularly in wastewater influent and untreated landfill leachate. Most analytes showed recoveries within 50-150% and precision below 30% relative standard deviation. In addition, stability was tested, which was highly matrix and storage dependent, with freezing generally providing improved preservation. Validation was included in method application for untreated and treated leachates from five Swedish landfills. A multi-class analytical method was developed and evaluated in six matrices The method was validated using matrix-specific assessment of sensitivity, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effects, and stability during storage. The method was applied to untreated and treated leachates from five Swedish landfills.