17 beta-estradiol: Behavior during waste water analyses

The distribution between the aqueous and solid phase of 17 beta-estradiol i n the ng-range in waste water was investigated by spiking experiments with a radio-labeled hormone. The distribution was measured by liquid scintillat ion counting. The major part of 17 beta-estradiol remained in the aqueous p hase and did not adsorb to the solids. The fraction in the aqueous phase co uld be enriched by a conventional solid phase extraction with a recovery ra te of up to 100%. Losses were negligible and the compound did not adsorb to the surfaces of glass bottles. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights r eserved.