DETERMINATION OF ENDOCRINE-DISRUPTING COMPOUNDS IN JUKSKEI RIVER AREA

There has been a continual search to develop sensitive analytical methods for detecting and determining endocrine disrupting compounds(EDCs) such as phthalate esters (PAEs), alkyl phenol ethoxylates(APEs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in environmental samples since they occur at very low concentration levels. Studies conducted so far in some South African waters showed the presence of PAEs and OCPs with little or no information on APEs. The health implications of EDs are well documented. Consequently, their presence in environmental samples is not desirable and therefore, needs to be monitored.