Evaluating the Bioavailability of Trace Organic Contaminants from Commercial and Municipal Biosolids-Based Fertilizers.

Use of commercial biosolids-based fertilizers (CBBFs) and municipal biosolids (MBs) is increasing in urban and suburban gardens, public lands, recreational areas, and agricultural systems as a viable source of nutrients. However, little is known about the potential risk of trace organic contaminants (TrOCs) present in these amendments with regards to food and ecological safety.  Among the TrOCs of concern are pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), poly/per-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), and synthetic musk fragrances (SMFs) due to their greater risk of bioaccumulation, and potential for toxicity including carcinogenicity and endocrine disruption.  In this study, the bioavailability of these TrOCs from CBBFs and MBs was evaluated using Tenax resin extraction, which collects TrOCs as they are released to the water from the amendments.  All CBBFs and MBs were used as received.  A biocide was added to the electrolyte solution to inhibit degradation.  Surrogate and internal standards were used to correct for extraction efficiencies and matrix effects.  Extracts were analyzed on a TOF/MS/MS and GC/MS/MS.