Screening and Quantitative Analysis of Contaminants of Emerging Concern by Chomatographic Techniques Coupled to Low and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

This thesis is primarily focused on developing LC-HRMS, GC-HRMS and SFC-HRMS screening methods, which are subsequently applied to different environmental samples of Galicia (Spain), Portugal and Panamá. As a second step, organophosphate flame retardants and plasticizers (OPFRs), which were frequently detected in many samples during the screening studies were targeted by developing methods and exploring their fate (bioaccumulation by mussels) in the marine environment (because of its relevance for the Galician economy). Finally, human exposure to chlorinated organophosphate esters (OPEs) and consumption of licit and illicit drugs, also frequently detected during screening, was explored by applying the wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) methodology.