Residue levels of pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide in soil and runoff water

J Environ Sci Health B. 1997 Sep;32(5):621-44. doi: 10.1080/03601239709373106.

Abstract

Simultaneous analysis of pyrethrins (Py-I and Py-II) and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) in soil and runoff water samples following field application of a new pyrethrum formulation containing pyrethrins (Py's) and PBO is described. Residues of total Py's and PBO were extracted from soil samples using hexane-acetone (9:1). A solid phase extraction (SPE) column containing C18-octadecyl bonded silica was used to separate Py's and PBO residues from runoff water. Residues in soil and water were quantitated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with C18-column and a UV detector. Concentration of Py-II in soil was 100 times higher than that of Py-I 1 h following treatment and 9.6 times higher than Py-I in runoff surface water 11 days following treatment. Results indicated that Py's are non-persistent in soil (even though lipophillic) and water when applied at the recommended rate of 6 lbs (5.31 g A.I.) per acre. There was a consistent decrease in total Py's residues as time after spraying increased. Py's residues in soil decreased from 0.91 to 0.11 ppm 4 days following treatment and one month after treatment only 0.002 ppm were detected. The highest concentration of Py's in runoff water was 36.09 ng/liter following the first rainfall (11 days following treatment). PBO initial residues detected in soil samples were low (0.84 microgram/g soil) while no residues of PBO were detected in runoff water.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Fresh Water / analysis
  • Insecticides / analysis
  • Pesticide Residues / analysis*
  • Pesticide Synergists / analysis
  • Piperonyl Butoxide / analogs & derivatives
  • Piperonyl Butoxide / analysis*
  • Pyrethrins / analysis*
  • Rain
  • Soil Pollutants / analysis*
  • Water Pollutants / analysis*

Substances

  • Insecticides
  • Pesticide Residues
  • Pesticide Synergists
  • Pyrethrins
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Water Pollutants
  • Piperonyl Butoxide