Analytical Methods for Understanding Sources and Fate Processes of Emerging Environmental Contaminants

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The presence of chemical pollutants in the environment is of great concern to many people today. Knowledge of how physical and chemical processes influence pollutant concentrations in the environment is necessary to accurately determine sources of pollutants and for controlling their potential risks to humans and ecosystems. Of particularly concern to the Canadian environment are petroleum carboxylic acids (often referred to as naphthenic acids). These compounds are naturally present in bitumen and may enter the environment through the erosion of exposed bitumen outcrops. However, oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) contains high concentrations of these chemicals, which have been identified as the main driver of chemical toxicity in OSPW. Their detection in surface waters raises concerns about potential human sources and adverse effects on ecosystems. Petroleum carboxylic acids exist as a complex mixture of chemicals, which makes identification of individual components difficult. This, in turn, hampers understanding of potential sources and risks posed by these chemicals.