LC-MS/MS in Environmental Monitoring: An Overview of Emerging Contaminants

Oral Presentation

Prepared by S. Richardson
JM Palms Center for Graduate Science Research - University of South Carolina, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 631 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States


Contact Information: richardson.susan@sc.edu; 803-777-6932


ABSTRACT

Much has been achieved in the way of environmental protection over the last 30-years. However, as we learn more, new concerns arise (including potential adverse health effects, bioaccumulation, and widespread distribution). This presentation will discuss emerging environmental contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, perfluorinated compounds, nanomaterials, flame retardants, drinking water disinfection by-products (DBPs), siloxanes, UV filters, and artificial sweeteners. Because many of these contaminants are highly polar or high molecular weight, LC-MS/MS has played a key role in their discovery and measurement, enabling important new information to be obtained on their fate, transport, and uptake in biota (including humans). Recent research on the application of LC-MS/MS to the study of these emerging contaminants will be presented, as well as future needs.