Simultaneous analysis of cationic, anionic and neutral surfactants from different matrices using LC/MS/MS
The term surfactant (short for‘surface active agent’) designates a substance which exhibits some superficial or interfacial activity . Surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents and dispersants.In 2008, the worldwide production of synthetic surfactants was estimated to be as high as 13 million metric tons. Most of these surfactants after use, are sent to sewage treatment plants (STP). Here, (bio) degradation processes and/or adsorption on sludge particles remove these chemicals from waste waters to a greater or lesser extent, depending on the particular nature of the surfactant molecule. After treatment, the STP effluents are discharged into the environment.Some surfactants are known to be toxic to animals, ecosystems, humans and can increase the diffusion of other environmental contaminants.Some of these surfactants are also potential carcinogens. Despite this, they are routinely deposited in numerous ways on land and in water systems, whether as part of an intended process or as industrial and household waste and therefore, it becomes essential to monitor their levels in environmental effluents.
- Content Type:
- Paper
- Document Number:
- ASMS2012_WP28-597
- Product Type:
- Liquid Chromatography, Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometry, Mass Spectrometry
- Keywords:
- surfactants, Environment, Food and Beverages, Hydrocarbon Processing Industry (Petrochemical, Chemical), Soil, Fertilizer, Waste Material Test, Proteochemicals, Polymer, Nexera, LCMS-8030
- Language:
- English
- File Name:
- apo112145.pdf
- File Size:
- 226kb