An international team of scientists from the University of Rhode Island in the US and the Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research in Germany has discovered the circulation of so-called “eternal chemicals” in the straits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Environmental Science and Technology Letters (ESTL), Report informs referring to Social Bites.
Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of chemical pollutants. These compounds are very stable and almost do not decompose in the natural environment. They can accumulate in humans and animals and cause various diseases, including cancer and internal organ dysfunction. Despite its known harm, PFAS are widely used in the production of various products to give materials oil and water-repellent properties.
Researchers found that the exchange of PFAS between Arctic Ocean and Atlantic waters occurs through the Fram Strait, located near the Spitsbergen archipelago.
Scientists used passive sampling systems that captured PFAS from flowing water into a sorbent-filled microporous membrane. They deployed the systems at three locations in Fram Strait and at four depths everywhere.
Analysis of samples using chromatography and mass spectrometry showed that Fram Bay waters contained at least 10 different PFAS in varying concentrations. However, some pollutants are present at depths greater than one kilometer.
The team calculated that approximately 123 tons of “forever chemicals” enter northern waters from the Atlantic Ocean each year, with approximately 110 tons of PFAS leaving in the opposite direction over the same period.
Previous scientists discovered Concentrations of “eternal chemicals” in the bodies of rare dolphins are at record levels.
