LE3 .A278 2013

2013

Wilson, Brian

Acadia University

Master of Science

Masters

Biology

Biology

Exposure to trace amounts of pesticides over time may lead to the development of chronic diseases, including asthma, endocrine disorders and cancer. Several pesticides in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia’s agricultural sectors are classified as “probable human carcinogens” by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The research objective was to develop analytical methods for identification and quantitation of commonly used pesticides in PEI and NS. GC/MS and HPLC/MS method development was carried out for 10 and 5 analytes, respectively. Additionally, SPE method optimization resulted in recoveries above 80 percent for nine of 10 GC/MS analytes using Chromabond HRX cartridges. Sample pH and salinity were optimized at neutral pH and 0 percent NaCl. The most effective elution solvent was acetonitrile:ethyl acetate (50:50). Target compounds were selected based on top sales in PEI and NS, known or suspected carcinogenic potential, acute toxicity and relative persistence in the environment.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:304