Mass spectrometry coupled to chromatographic techniques and direct sample injection. Toxicological and environmental applications

Abstract

In recent years the use of chemicals has become commonplace in daily life, from food additives and personal care products to pharmaceuticals, flame retardants and pesticides. The development of new additives and active ingredients by the chemical and pharmacological industries resulted in a higher quality of life for the population; however, the abuse and/or poor management of these substances proved to have an adverse effects in human health, and the environment. Substances present in furniture to prevent their ignition or to avoid decolouration catalysed by sunlight can migrate to the air and be inhaled by humans or animals present on the same room. On the same vein, a pesticide designed for the protection of crops can persist in the environment and harm non-target organisms or be transported to different environmental compartments.