Сhlorophenolic compounds in bottom sediments of the boreal lake as a specific mark of anthropogenic impact

Abstract

The paper presents the results of multi-year studies of bottom sediments of a boreal lake (the south-west of the Arkhangelsk region,Russian Federation), which exist under a specific anthropogenic impact, namely, the long-term usage of a chlorophenol-containing biocide (NaPCP) in the past. It is shown that levels of pentachlorophenol (PCP) significantly decreased after more than two decades since the discontinuation of biocide usage. However, an increase in levels of PCP derivatives (namely, toxic chlorinated guaiacols and catechols) in lake sediments was found. These chlorophenolic compounds were detected in a state inaccessible for biodegradation, which indicates their persistence in sediments for a long time.