GAS-CHROMATOGRAPHIC DETERMINATION OF HALOGENATED ORGANIC-COMPOUNDS IN WATER AND SEDIMENT IN THE SKAGERRAK

Biogenic and anthropogenic volatile halocarbons and chlorinated phenolic compounds were monitored in the Skagerrak. Measurements were made both in water and in sediment by means of gas chromatography with electron-capture detection. The results show that the load of biogenic halocarbons exceeds that of the anthropogenic halocarbons and that the iodinated compounds show a more marked seasonal trend than the brominated compounds. Additionally, it was established that waters of different origins have exclusive sets of biogenic halocarbons. Pentachlorophenol is widely distributed throughout the Skagerrak. It is transported in its dissociated form. The concentration level of other chlorinated phenolics is less than 1 ng/l. However, it could be demonstrated that there is an accumulation of chlorinated phenolics in sediments in the deeper parts of the Skagerrak.