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A study of the distribution of the polychlorinated biphenyls in the aquatic environment

August 1, 1973

Data gathered from monitoring activities and project studies indicate the ubiquitous occurrence and distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls in the aquatic environment. Residues have been detected in samples from 19 States, representing nearly every region of the country. Concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 4.0 ug/l in unfiltered water samples and 5.0 to 3,200 ug/kg in bottom sediments. PCB residues were also found in fish and aquatic plants. Samples were prepared by the same techniques used for general chlorinated insecticide detection, with special attention to cleanup and separation of PCB's from other compounds. Basic identification and quantification were made by dual-column electron-capture gas chromatography and confirmed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry whenever possible. The sampling program is expected to be broadened geographically in 1973 and increased in successive years in order to more adequately define the distribution of PCB residues in the major drainage basins of the United States.

Publication Year 1973
Title A study of the distribution of the polychlorinated biphenyls in the aquatic environment
Authors Hans J. Crump-Wiesner, Herman R. Feltz, Marvin L. Yates
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Journal of Research of the U.S. Geological Survey
Index ID 70161909
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse