The analytical problem of measuring total concentrations of organic pollutants in whole water

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) (2000/60/EC) of the European Union provides protection from chemical pollutants through the Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) Directive (2008/105/EC), which sets EQSs for priority substances (PSs) and certain other pollutants, according to the requirements set out in Article 16(8) of the WFD. For organic PSs, these EQSs are expressed as total concentrations in the whole-water sample. Total concentrations can be obtained by direct analysis of the whole-water sample or by separate determinations on filterable and solid phases. Both solutions have their advantages and drawbacks, which we critically discuss in the present review.Analysis of data in the literature and experience from standardization activities show that it is possible to find a simple extraction method for analyzing whole water without time-consuming separation steps. The solid-phase extraction disk is now subject to standardization efforts as the most promising technique to achieve this goal. We discuss limitations of this approach in the light of the consequences for chemical-status assessment.

► Whole-water analysis is carried out by direct analysis or separate determinations. ► We discuss the ways to analyze organics in whole water without separation. ► It is possible to use membrane-disk extraction for whole-water analysis. ► For whole-water analysis, membrane disks are validated in standardization activities. ► Limitations in whole-water analysis in the light of chemical-status assessment.