Chemical calibration, performance, validation and applications of the polar organic chemical integrative sampler (POCIS) in aquatic environments

The polar organic chemical integrative sampler (POCIS) was relatively recently developed to trap hydrophilic organic micropollutants in aquatic environments.The aim of this article is to compile information from numerous references involving the POCIS in order to discuss the evaluation of time-weighted average concentrations (e.g., calibration methods, sampling rates, performance and reference compounds) and to review critically the different in situ applications (e.g., screening or quantifying micropollutants, and coupling to toxicity tests), application domains (e.g., molecules analyzed, and sampling media) and analytical protocols (e.g., processing, analysis, and exposure duration).

► We discuss on the evaluation of time-weighted average concentrations with POCIS.
► We review the different applications and analytical protocols for POCIS.
► POCIS is a very useful tool for screening and identifying sources of pollutants.
► POCIS can evaluate toxicological effects in aquatic environments.
► We conclude with aspects of POCIS requiring more research.