Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) in sewage sludges, soils and sediments: analytical determination and environmental safety considerations.

Linear Alkylbenzenesulphonates (LAS), a major anionic surfactant used in laundry products, can be measured specifically in the environment by instrumental analysis. In addition to a desulphonation-gas chromatography approach, a method based on high performance liquid chromatography has been developed. The main features of the methods are outlined, and LAS concentrations measured in sewage sludge, sediments and sludge amended soils are reported. Knowledge of usage volumes, sewage treatment practices and environmental transport and transformation mechanisms has been used to predict concentrations of LAS. These calculated concentrations were found to agree well with those actually measured in the environment. Both measured and calculated ambient concentrations of LAS are below those which could produce potentially adverse effects in representative surface water, benthic and terrestrial organisms.