Promising passive sampling device developed to detect fipronil in receiving waters

SCCWRP and its partners have identified a promising, cost-effective passive sampling method for detecting the ubiquitous pesticide fipronil in receiving waters.

The passive sampling method for this problematic, high-priority CEC was created by modifying a type of thin polymer film called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) to preferentially sorb fipronil and its degradation products. PMMA is commonly known as Acrylic or Plexiglas. Fipronil and its degradation products are toxic to aquatic life at low levels, making it a priority to develop an inexpensive, rapid monitoring method for fipronil. Fipronil is a pesticide used for flea control on domestic pets.

Passive sampling devices concentrate chemical contaminants from water and sediment samples, capturing “bioavailable” forms of CECs that could be harmful to aquatic life. Passive samplers already have been developed to measure legacy pollutants, including DDTs and PCBs. However, existing passive samplers cannot be used for fipronil because of its different chemical properties.

The fipronil passive sampler is described in a recently published journal article.