The influence of environmental factors on β-blockers sampling rates by passive samplers containing carbon nanotubes as a sorbent

Abstract

Passive samplers are relatively new tools for the isolation and monitoring of micropollutants in the aquatic environment. Since the appearance of the first passive dosimeter used in surface water in 1987, passive sampling devices (PSDs) have quickly become commonplace. Passive techniques have many important advantages, including simplicity of use, low cost, no need to use complicated equipment, no need to supply energy, maintenance-free and the ability to obtain reliable results (Yang et al., 2017). Due to the continuous development of passive sampling methods, currently available samplers enable detection and analysis of chemical compounds at low and very low concentrations. To estimate the time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations of analytes in water basins it is necessary to calibrate dosimeters. It includes the assessment of sampling rates (Rs) for individual compounds. It is also worth noting that Rs for passive samplers depends on the physicochemical properties of analytes (molecular mass, hydrophobicity, solubility) and environmental conditions such as water agitation, salinity, pH of the sample and the dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration (Harman, Allan, & Vermeirssen, 2012).