Sampling, Characterization, and Monitoring

It is imperative to sample, characterize, and monitor the release of microconstituents (MCs) from diversified sources to the environment in order to assess environmental risks associated with the MCs and evaluate the extent of their compliance with environmental regulations. Characterization, quantification, and analysis of MCs necessitates highly sensitive and advanced analytical techniques that make it possible to detect the presence of very low concentrations in complex environmental samples. In addition to sophisticated analytical instruments, appropriate sampling modes are highly essential since errorless sampling helps in maximizing the value of measured data. Well defined sampling methods like passive sampling, pore-water sampling, auto sampling, etc., are continually evolving for MCs pollution, permitting the concurrent sampling and quantification of MCs in test samples. MCs enter into different environmental components through various routes like direct, indirect, and domestic, as well as industrial discharges. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the predominant sources so that adequate intervention measures can be adopted to control the entry of MCs into the environment. Different source tracking methods like tracer techniques need to be engaged for this purpose. Furthermore, monitoring of the MCs in different environmental components like groundwater, surface water, etc., can also be by application of remote sensing as well as the Geographical Information System (GIS). This chapter outlines different sampling methods of MCs, their quantification, and characterization using high-end analytical techniques like gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS), etc. Different source tracking methods are also highlighted to identify the major sources of MCs. The application of GIS and remote sensing are also discussed to a limited extent to monitor the fate and transport of MCs in the environment.