Environmental occurrence of phthalate and organophosphate esters in sediments across the Gulf of Lion (NW Mediterranean Sea)

Seven phthalate (PAEs) and nine organophosphate esters (OPEs) were measured in surface sediments across the Gulf of Lion (NW Mediterranean Sea) at twelve stations characterized by different anthropogenic signatures. ∑PAEs ∑OPEs concentrations ranged from 2 to 766 ng/g DW (av. 196 DW) 4 227 54 DW), respectively. Our analysis potential sources these organic plastic additives suggests that dominant factors affecting their occurrence environmental distribution are port-based industrial activities urban pressures. Indeed, highest found close ports Toulon Marseille (Estaque) sites impacted metropolitan area (i.e. outlets waste water treatment plant Cortiou mouth Huveaune River). The lowest levels generally protected areas (e.g. Port-Cros) relatively far coast. DEHP was seen be most abundant PAE while TDCP, TEHP TiBP OPEs area. results also expose contribution entering via sedimentary material Rhône River, with positive correlations between total carbon (TOC) content sediment concentrations. However, additive decreased shore offshore River discharge area, indicating an efficient dilution contaminants accumulated river