Distribution of endocrine disrupting semivolatile organic compounds in several compartments of a terrestrial ecosystem Available to Purchase

Concentrations of semivolatile organic compounds – most of them known or suspected endocrine disrupters – were monitored in different compartments of a forested region in Northeast Bavaria. Considered compartments included precipitation (rain, snow), aerosol particles and vapour phase, soil and spruce needles (Picea abies). Investigated compounds comprised 4 phthalate acid esters, 14 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and 8 pesticides. While nearly all PAHs and phthalate acid esters were found in significant concentrations in the different compartments, pesticide concentrations were low, perhaps due to sampling in winter conditions. Regarding literature data about receptor affinity, the estrogen potential of the investigated compounds were evaluated.