Studies on the adsorption of selected polychlorinated biphenyl isomers of several surfaces

The adsorption-desorption characteristics of three selected PCB isomers on a soil and some of its constituents have been determined. The extent of adsorption for all surfaces follows the sequence hexachloro greater than tetrachloro greater dichloro for the isomers chosen. For an individual isomer, the adsorption rates increase in the following sequence: Del Monte, sand, illite clay, Woodburn soil, and humic acid. These results are discussed relative to environmental transport of the chemicals.