Preliminary investigation of bisphenol A in sediments and suspended matter in Kaštela Bay (Adriatic Sea, Croatia)

Abstract

     The occurrence, seasonal and vertical distribution of bisphenol A (BPA) was investigated in the sediments and suspended matter sampled in Kaštela Bay, Adriatic Sea, Croatia. Granulometric composition of sediment and organic matter (OM) in sediments and suspended matter were also examined. BPA was detected in all samples of sediments and suspended matter. Concentration of BPA in sediment ranged from 5.32 μg kg^-1 to 15.52 μg kg^-1, while in suspended matter BPA ranged from 4.66 μg kg^-1 to 103.06 μg kg^-1. Seasonality in distribution of BPA concentrations in sediment and suspended matter was not found. The most abundant grain size fractions in sediment were silt (64.40±8.63%) and sand (26.97±9.11%) with accordingly determined sediment type as sandy silt. Average content of OM was 12.01±1.85% and 12.51±1.30%, for sediment and suspended matter, respectively. Monthly distribution of OM content showed higher values during October-March period and lower values during April-September period, while for the suspended matter situation was opposite. Statistical analysis of obtained data showed no existing significant correlation between concentration of BPA in sediments and suspended matter, or between BPA concentration and OM in sediments and suspended matter.