Partitioning of antifouling agents, Irgarol 1051 and Sea Nine 211, to humic organic matter investigated by solid-phase microextraction

The partitioning behavior of organic biocides onto humic organic matter (Fluka humic acids) was investigated. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) was used in both direct and headspace approaches to measure the freely dissolved proportion of the target analytes rather than the proportion bound to the polymer. Data obtained with direct and headspace modes are very similar. Results indicated that Irgarol 1051 had the strongest adsorption characteristics and was found to bind more strongly to humic acids than Sea Nine 211. Obtained values are in good agreement with previously reported data, showing that these biocides are transported mainly in the dissolved phase of marine waters.