Investigating the distribution of polybrominated diphenyl ethers through an Australian wastewater treatment plant.

摘要: The aim of this study was to quantify the amount polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) released into environment (biosolids, effluent) from a conventional Australian activated sludge treatment wastewater plant (WWTP). concentration PBDE congeners measured at various stages and included four aqueous samples (raw, primary, secondary tertiary effluents) three sludges (primary, lime stabilized biosolids), collected sampling events over course experiment (29 days). Semi-permeable membrane devices (SPMDs) were also installed for duration experiment, first time that SPMDs have been used measure PBDEs in WWTP. Over 99% entering WWTP removed through processes, principally by sedimentation. main detected BDE 47, 99 209, which are characteristic two major commercial formulations viz penta-BDE deca-BDE. All highly correlated with each other, suggesting similar origin. In case, thought be domestic sources since is contribution in-flow (approximately 95%). mean SigmaPBDEs chemically sewage (biosolids) 300microg kg(-1) dry weight. It calculated 2.3+/-0.3kg disposed year biosolids generated If all contaminated least then 110kg associated annually. Less than 10g annually via ocean outfall field irrigation; level contamination unlikely pose risk humans or environment. environmental release treated effluent not considered large source emissions compared quantities Australia.