Abstract
Japan's recommended method of EDTA determination is complex and time-consuming. In this study, a new method to prepare the solution to determine EDTA in water by solid-phase extraction-GC/MS was developed. Recovery yields were excellent with values ranging from 98.1 to 100.5%. Due to this method's ease and simplicity, it is suggested that this approach be adopted as Japan's recommended method for EDTA analysis. The method was applied to assess the concentrations of EDTA in river water from three regions of Japan. Median concentration of EDTA in river water samples was 115 μg/L, and the concentrations ranged from 18.8 to 443 μg/L. The highest concentration of EDTA (443 μg/L) was observed in Tsurumi River. Sewage treatment plant (STP) effluent significantly contributed to high EDTA levels.
