Distribution and release of 2,4,5-trichlorobiphenyl in ice

Abstract

The distribution of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in ice and the release of POPs from ice during ice melting have an important influence on the eco-environment and water quality of a river. Through laboratory simulation experiments, the distribution and release of 2,4,5-trichlorobiphenyl (PCB29) in ice and the partition coefficients of PCB29 in ice water at different temperatures, concentrations, and pH levels were studied. The results showed that, at different temperatures and concentrations, the concentration of PCB29 in ice increased progressively with depth. The modes of release of different concentrations of PCB29 from ice were obtained. A large amount of PCB29 was released rapidly in the first melting period, and then the remaining PCB29 was released uniformly. The pH value dominated both the distribution and late release of PCB29 in ice. In ice water, at different temperatures, concentrations, and pH levels, the majority of PCB29 entered the water, and a lesser amount remained in the ice. Finally, laboratory experiment results were verified with field investigations. A theoretical framework is provided by this research of the behavior of POPs in ice under different environmental conditions, but a more quantitative understanding of the behavior of POPs in ice will need to be developed through further laboratory studies combined with field investigations.

Keywords

• Persistent organic pollutants
• 2,4,5-trichlorobiphenyl
• Ice
• Distribution
• Release
• Partition coefficient