Global distribution and ecological risk assessment of synthetic musks in the environment

Revealing the distribution of synthetic musks in Chinese estuarine sediments driven by natural and anthropogenic factors

Synthetic musks (SMs) commonly used in personal care products can accumulate in the estuarine environment, but influencing factors on their distribution at large-scale region remain largely unexplored. Herein, surface sediment samples from 18 main estuaries of China and two river outlets in the Yangtze River Estuary were collected to discern the spatial and temporal variations of SMs. Moreover, fourteen influencing factors consisting of natural and anthropogenic parameters were scrutinized and their significance were analyzed by using Spearman's rank correlation and Random Forest. The widespread distribution of SMs were observed in Chinese estuarine sediments with the levels ranging from < reporting limit to 28 ng g-1 on a basis of dry weight (mean: 3.5 ng g-1). Predominated polycyclic musks shared similar sources both spatially and temporally. Positive correlation was found between SMs and total organic carbon in sediments, whereas the SM distribution was strongly influenced by regional anthropogenic activities. Regional population density was the primary influencing factor, followed by gross domestic product per unit area and wet deposition of particulate matters. A good correlation between SMs and water quality category indicated SMs could serve as an indicator for water quality. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the main influencing factors on SM distribution in estuarine sediments, aiming to better understand the distribution and fate of emerging organic chemicals in the estuarine environment.

Comparison of Sample Preparation and Detection Methods for the Quantification of Synthetic Musk Compounds (SMCs) in Carp Fish Samples

This study deals with the separation and detection methods for 12 synthetic musk compounds (SMCs), which are some of the emerging contaminants in fish samples, are widely present in environmental media, and can be considered serious risks due to their harmful effects. For the separation of co-extracted substances and the target SMCs in fish samples after ultrasonic extraction, four solid-phase extraction (SPE) sorbents were investigated. The recoveries of SMCs from 10 mL of eluent, as optimized by the elution profile, were within the acceptable range of 80-120% in all SPE types, and it was found that nitro musk and polycyclic musk compounds were separated more clearly in Florisil SPE than others (Aminopropyl, Alumina-N, PSA). Furthermore, the results of measuring the matrix effects by each SPE through the spiking experiments showed that Florisil SPE was superior. The comparison of a gas chromatograph-single quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC-SQ/MS) with selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode and GC-triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC-QqQ-MS/MS) with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) modes regarding the detection method of SMCs showed that the method detection limits (MDLs) of SMCs were on average ten times lower when GC-QqQ-MS/MS with MRM mode was used. The differences between the two methods can provide essential information for selecting an analytical method in related research fields that require appropriate detection levels, such as risk assessment or pollution control.

Photodegradation of the main synthetic musk (HHCB) in water: kinetic study and influencing factors

Galaxolide (HHCB) is the most common synthetic musk compound detected in numerous daily products. Despite its persistence in the aquatic environment, the photodegradation of HHCB remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the direct and indirect photolysis kinetics of HHCB under simulated sunlight and UVC light. Our aim was to determine the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for HHCB degradation in the aquatic environment and to identify its transformation products. The influence of environmental factors on indirect photolysis was investigated by testing both synthetic waters (containing humic acid, carbonate (CO32-), and nitrate (NO3-)) and real waters (riverine and effluent). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2/UVC) was tested to simulate the wastewater treatment process. Quencher experiments were conducted to identify the role of ROS in HHCB photodegradation, including hydroxyl radicals (˙OH), carbonate radicals (CO3˙-), triplet states of dissolved organic matter (3DOM*), and singlet oxygen (1O2). The results clearly indicated that HHCB was efficiently degraded by direct photolysis under both light conditions. The presence of H2O2 led to the most efficient HHCB degradation due to the high production of ˙OH induced under UVC. Indirect photolysis contribution was observed, induced by ˙OH, CO3˙-, 3DOM*, and 1O2 to different extents depending on the light and matrix composition. The experiments led to the detection of transformation products: HHCB lactone, a well-known transformation product, and two other substances with proposed structures. This study provides a comprehensive identification of the processes involved in the direct and indirect photodegradation of HHCB, which could serve as the basis for evaluating and modeling the fate of HHCB in aquatic environments.

AQUA-GAPS/MONET-Derived Concentrations and Trends of PAHs and Polycyclic Musks across Global Waters

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), released from petrogenic, pyrogenic or diagenetic sources (degradation of wood materials), are of global concern due to their adverse effects, and potential for long-range transport. While dissolved PAHs have been frequently reported in the literature, there has been no consistent approach of sampling across water bodies. Passive samplers from the AQUA/GAPS-MONET initiative were deployed at 46 sites (28 marine and 18 freshwater), and analyzed for 28 PAHs and six polycyclic musks (PCMs) centrally. Freely dissolved PAH concentrations were dominated by phenanthrene (mean concentration 1500 pg L-1; median 530 pg L-1) and other low molecular weight compounds. Greatest concentrations of phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and pyrene were typically from the same sites, mostly in Europe and North America. Of the PCMs, only galaxolide (72% of samples) and tonalide (61%) were regularly detected, and were significantly cross-correlated. Benchmarking of PAHs relative to penta- and hexachlorobenzene confirmed that the most remote sites (Arctic, Antarctic, and mountain lakes) displayed below average PAH concentrations. Concentrations of 11 of 28 PAHs, galaxolide and tonalide were positively correlated (P < 0.05) with population density within a radius of 5 km of the sampling site. Characteristic PAH ratios gave conflicting results, likely reflecting multiple PAH sources and postemission changes.

Bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and risk assessment of polycyclic musk in marine food webs of the Bohai Sea

Galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN) are dominant musks added to personal care products. However, the accumulate and trophic transfer of SMs through the marine food chain are unclear. In this study, organisms were collected from three bays in Bohai Sea to investigate the bioaccumulation, trophic transfer, and health risk of SMs. The HHCB and AHTN concentrations in the muscles range from 2.75 to 365.40 μg/g lw and 1.04-4.94 μg/g lw, respectively. The median HHCB concentrations in muscles were the highest in Bohai Bay, followed by Laizhou Bay and Liaodong Bay, consistent with the HHCB concentrations in sediments. The different fish tissues from Bohai Bay were analyzed, and the HHCB and AHTN concentrations followed the heart > liver > gill > muscles. The trophic magnification factors (TMF) were lower than 1 and the health risk assessment showed no adverse health effects. The results provide insights into the bioaccumulation and trophic transfer behavior of SMs in marine environments.

Occurrence, Spatial Distribution, and Bioaccumulation of Dissolved Synthetic Musks in Freshwaters across China

Commercial chemicals, such as synthetic musks, are of global concern, but data on their occurrence and spatial distribution in aquatic environments of large scale are scarce. Two sampling campaigns were conducted in the present study to measure freely dissolved synthetic musks in freshwaters across China using passive samplers, along with biological coexposure at selected sites. Polycyclic musks (PCMs) dominated synthetic musks, with a detection frequency of 95%. Higher concentrations of PCMs were observed in densely populated Mid, East, and South China compared to less populated regions, indicating the significance of anthropogenic activities for synthetic musks in water. The concentration ratios of galaxolide (HHCB)/tonalide (AHTN) were significantly higher in low-latitude areas than in high-latitude areas from June to September, suggesting that solar radiation played an important role in the degradation of HHCB/AHTN. Significant correlations were found between dissolved concentrations of HHCB and AHTN and their lipid-normalized concentrations in coexposed fish and clam. The estimated hazard quotients for HHCB and AHTN in freshwater fish consumed by humans were less than 0.01 at all sampling sites except the Yangtze River Basin. These results help to understand the environmental fate and ecological risks of synthetic musks on a large geographical scale.

Synthetic musks in the natural environment: Sources, occurrence, concentration, and fate-A review of recent developments (2010-2023)

Synthetic musks (SMs) have served as cost-effective substitutes for natural musk compounds in personal care and daily chemical products for decades. Their widespread use has led to their detection in various environmental matrices, raising concerns about potential risks. Despite numerous studies on SM levels in different natural environments, a systematic review of their contemporary presence is lacking. This review aims to address this gap by summarising recent research developments on SMs in diverse natural environments, including river water, lake water, seawater, estuarine water, groundwater, snow, meltwater, sediments, aquatic suspended matter, soils, sands, outdoor air, and atmospheric particulate matter. Covering the period from 2010 to 2023, the review focuses on four SM categories: nitro, polycyclic, macrocyclic, and alicyclic. It systematically examines their sources, occurrences, concentrations, spatial and temporal variations, and fate. The literature reveals widespread detection of SMs in the natural environment (freshwater and sediments in particular), with polycyclic musks being the most studied group. Both direct (e.g., wastewater discharges) and indirect (e.g., human recreational activities) sources contribute to SM presence. Levels of SMs vary greatly among studies with higher levels observed in certain regions, such as sediments in Southeast Asia. Spatial and temporal variations are also evident. The fate of SMs in the environment depends on their physicochemical properties and environmental processes, including bioaccumulation, biodegradation, photodegradation, adsorption, phase exchange, hydro-dilution effects. Biodegradation and photodegradation can decrease SM levels, but may produce more persistent and eco-toxic products. Modelling approaches have been employed to analyse SM fate, especially for indirect processes like photodegradation or long-distance atmospheric transport. Future studies should further investigate the complex fate if SMs and their environmental influence. This review enhances understanding of SM status in the natural environment and supports efforts to control environmental contamination.

Current strategies on bioremediation of personal care products and detergents: Sustainability and life cycle assessment

The increased use of personal care products and detergents in modern society has raised concerns about their potential adverse effects on the environment. These products contain various chemical compounds that can persist in water bodies, leading to water pollution and ecological disturbances. Bioremediation has emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges, utilizing the natural capabilities of microorganisms to degrade or remove these contaminants. This review examines the current strategies employed in the bioremediation of personal care products and detergents, with a specific focus on their sustainability and environmental impact. This bioremediation is essential for environmental rejuvenation, as it uses living organisms to detergents and other daily used products. Its distinctiveness stems from sustainable, nature-centric ways that provide eco-friendly solutions for pollution eradication and nurturing a healthy planet, all while avoiding copying. Explores the use of microbial consortia, enzyme-based treatments, and novel biotechnological approaches in the context of environmental remediation. Additionally, the ecological implications and long-term sustainability of these strategies are assessed. Understanding the strengths and limitations of these bioremediation techniques is essential for developing effective and environmentally friendly solutions to mitigate the impact of personal care products and detergents on ecosystems.

Assessing Contributions of Synthetic Musk Compounds from Wastewater Treatment Plants to Atmospheric and Aquatic Environments

The high environmental concentrations, persistence, and toxicity of synthetic musk compounds (SMCs) necessitate a better grasp of their fate in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). To investigate the importance of WWTPs as pathways of SMCs to the environment, air and wastewater samples were collected at four WWTPs in Ontario, Canada. Polycyclic musks (PCMs) were present at higher concentrations than nitro musks (NMs) and macrocyclic musks (MCMs). Three PCMs [galaxolide (HHCB), tonalide (AHTN), and iso-E super (OTNE)] were the most abundant compounds (0.30-680 ng/m3 in air, 0.40-15 μg/L in influent, and 0.007-6.0 μg/L in effluent). Analyses of multiyear data suggest that risk management measures put in place have been effective in reducing the release of many SMCs into the environment. The highest removal efficiency, up to almost 100% of some SMCs, was observed for the plant with the longest solid retention time. A fugacity-based model was established to simulate the transport and fate of SMCs in the WWTP, and good agreement was obtained between the measured and modeled values. These findings indicate that the levels of certain SMCs discharged into the atmospheric and aquatic environments were substantial, potentially resulting in exposure to both humans and wildlife.

A critical review of distribution, toxicological effects, current analytical methods and future prospects of synthetic musks in aquatic environments

Synthetic musks (SMs) have gained widespread utilization in daily consumer products, leading to their widespread dissemination in aquatic environments through various pathways. Over the past few decades, the production of SMs has consistently risen, prompting significant concern over their potential adverse impacts on ecosystems and human health. Although several studies have focused on the development of analytical techniques for detecting SMs in biological samples and cosmetic products, a comprehensive evaluation of their global distribution in diverse aquatic media and biological matrices remains lacking. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the occurrence of SMs in both aquatic and various biological matrices, investigating their worldwide distribution trends, assessing their ecological toxicity, and comparing different methodologies for processing and analysis of SMs. The findings underscore the prevalence of polycyclic musks as predominant SMs, with consumption of various products in different countries leading to contrasting distribution of contaminants. Furthermore, the migration of SMs from sediments to the water phase is investigated, indicating the role of solid-phase reservoirs. Incomplete degradation of SMs in the environment could contribute to their accumulation in aquatic systems, impacting the growth and oxidative stress of aquatic organisms, and having a possibility of genotoxicity to them. Human exposure data highlight substantial risks for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and infants. Moreover, contemporary methods for SMs analysis are presented in this review, particularly focusing on advancements made in the last five years. Finally, research enhancement and critical questions regarding the analysis of SMs are provided, offering suggestions for future research endeavors.

Screening and Evaluation of Children's Sensitively Toxic Chemicals in New Mosquito Repellent Products Based on a Nationwide Investigation

New mosquito repellent products (NMRPs) are emerging popular repellents among children. There are increasing reports on children's sensitization reactions caused by NMRPs, while regulations on their productions, sales, or usage are still lacking. One of the reasons could be the missing comprehensive risk assessment. We first conducted a nationwide investigation on children's NMRP usage preferences. Then, we high-throughput screened volatile or semivolatile organic chemicals (VOCs/SVOCs) in five representative NMRPs by the headspace gas chromatography-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry analytical method. After that, toxic compounds were recognized based on the toxicity forecaster (ToxCast) database. A total of 277 VOCs/SVOCs were recognized, and 70 of them were identified as toxic compounds. In a combination of concentrations, toxicities, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion characteristics in the body, 28 chemicals were finally proposed as priority-controlled compounds in NMRPs. Exposure risks of recognized toxic chemicals through NMRPs by inhalation and dermal intake for children across the country were also assessed. Average daily intakes were in the range of 0.20-7.31 mg/kg/day for children in different provinces, and the children in southeastern coastal provinces were found to face higher exposure risks. By controlling the high-priority chemicals, the risks were expected to be reduced by about 46.8% on average. Results of this study are therefore believed to evaluate exposure risks, encourage safe production, and promote reasonable management of NMRPs.