CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2014
| Author | Navarro Ang, Erika Elizabeth |
|---|---|
| Title | Characterization and hazard assessment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in municipal wastewater effluents |
| Summary | There is growing concern about exposure to chemicals, especially those that have been shown to interfere with the endocrine system of vertebrates, hence called endocrine disrupters. Reported endpoints include effects on the reproductive system of humans and other animals, such as feminization of males, breast and testicular cancer, altered sex ratios in wildlife, and birth defects. The main point source of endocrine disrupters into the environment is wastewater treatment plant (WWWTP) effluents. A preliminary screening for estrogenicity and (anti-)androgenicity was performed on samples from two WWTPs in Greece, Athens and Mytilene. Estrogenic potentials were found in both effluents, with higher activity found in Mytilene. The apparent higher efficiency of removal of estrogenic potential in the Athens WWTP could be due to an extra step of clarification, which removes inorganic solids. Neither androgenic nor anti-androgenic activity was found on the samples; therefore these potentials are not of concern. The expected positive correlation between endocrine potential and wastewater influx was not observed. On the other hand, the effect of a difference in wastewater treatment technology could not be fully clarified. While the addition of primary clarification in the Athens WWTP is the possible cause of a lower estrogen potential, such correlation could not be associated with a longer hydraulic retention time. Although a complete assessment of risks require more studies, in vitro assays such as those applied in this thesis provide useful data for initial screening of hazards, and to design further assessments, particularly when integrated in approaches such as effect-directed analysis. |
| Supervisor | Hecker, Markus; Kalantzi, Olga-Ioanna |
| Department | Environment Sciences and Policy MSc |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2014/navarro_erika.pdf |
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