Glossary

A brominated flame retardant

A flame retardant

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

PBDE congener with 6 bromine atoms. Component of technical pentaBDE

PBDE congener with 6 bromine atoms. Minor component of technical pentaBDE

PBDE congener with 5 bromine atoms. Main component of technical pentaBDE

PBDE congener with 5 bromine atoms. Component of technical pentaBDE

PBDE congener with 4 bromine atoms. Main component of technical pentaBDE

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

A brominated flame retardant

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

A brominated flame retardant

A brominated flame retardant

A brominated flame retardant

A brominated flame retardant

Oxidized metabolite of N-Ethyl-pyrrolidone. Metabolised by oxidation of 5-Hydroxy-N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone

Oxidized metabolite of N-Methyl-pyrrolidone. Metabolised by oxidation of 5-Hydroxy-N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone

Particularly suitable matrix for human biomonitoring because chemicals and/or their metabolites excreted with urine have been in direct contact with the organism. Therefore, measurements in urine can give valid information regarding the internal human body burden.

Mono(2-carboxymethyl-hexyl)phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DEHP.

1-mono-(2-carboxyl-methyl-hexyl) benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate is a metabolite of DEHTP

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Specific congener of the group of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Alkylphenol with a C9-alkyl-chain

Main metabolite of lilial together with lysmerol

Alkylphenol with a C8-Alkyl-chain

Oxidized metabolite of N-Ethyl-pyrrolidone

Oxidized metabolite of N-Methyl-pyrrolidone

Mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl)phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DEHP.

1-mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxyl-pentyl) benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate is a metabolite of DEHTP

Mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl)phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DEHP.

1-mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxy-hexyl) benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate is a metabolite of DEHTP

Mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl)phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DEHP.

1-mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxo-hexyl) benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate is a metabolite of DEHTP

A fragrance often used in cosmetics

Metabolite of 7-hydroxycitronellal

Mono(4-methyl-7-carboxyheptyl)phthalate is a oxidised DiNP metabolite with functional carboxyl-group.

Mono(4-methyl-7-hydroxyoctyl)phthalate is a oxidised DiNP metabolite with functional hydroxyl group.

Mono(4-methyl-7-oxo-octyl)phthalate is a oxidised DiNP metabolite with functional oxo group.

Metabolite of geraniol

Physical and chemical parameters that influence an environment such as light, temperature, current, pressure, salinity, and pH

Term for an oxygen-dependent lifestyle or oxygen-dependent chemical reactions

Agrarian ecosystems cover more than half the surface area of Germany and thus decisively shape the landscape.

One of the world's most important fragrance among the chemical group of polycyclic musks

also: Algaecide. Chemical agent used to kill algae or control their growth

Class of non-ionic surfactants and their degradation products

Allergic reaction of the skin upon contact with certain substances like synthetic fragrances or metals

Sum of (+)- und (-)-α-HBCD (pair of enantiomers). Minor component of technical HBCD (1–12%). In biota the levels of α-HBCD are normally much higher compared to those of β- und γ-HBCD.

The main constituent of technical HCH

Term for an oxygen-independent lifestyle or for chemical reactions that work only in the absence of oxygen

Genus of mosquito of which some species may transmit the tropical disease malaria

A flame retardant

The long-term storage of environmental and human specimens is regarded as the main task of the German Environmental Specimen Bank: The Environmental Specimen Bank provides a continuous historical record of the state of the environment in Germany.

Ubiquitous toxic metalloid

Chemical substance intended to kill bacteria

As the most dominant deciduous tree species in Central Europe, it plays a significant role in most nearly natural and also anthropogenically influenced forest ecosystems up to an altitude of 1100 m.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with four six-membered rings and one five-membered ring

UV stabilizers in plastics

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with five connected six-membered rings

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with three six-membered rings and one five-membered ring with a single sulphur atom

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with five connected six-membered rings

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with six connected six-membered rings

The application of benzyl paraben (BzP) as a preservative in cosmetics and food is prohibited in the European Union (EU) since 2014.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with four connected six-membered rings

Most persistent HCH-isomer with the highest potential for biomagnification

Increase in concentration of a substance in an organism

Ability of a substance to enrich in organisms independent of the uptake route (surrounding medium, food)

Difference between the concentration of a substance an organism is exposed to and the amount which is ingested and absorbed

Chemical agent capable to destroy living organisms

Chemical agents against harmful organisms and for plant protection

Biological diversity

Increase in concentration of a substance in an organism through dietary uptake

Ability of a substance to enrich in the food web

Extensive protected areas (natural and precious cultural landscapes) that have been recognized in the UNESCO Programme “Man and the Biosphere” (MAB) established in 1976

A brominated flame retardant

Commercially important precursor of polymers like polycarbonates and epoxy resins

Ideal matrix for most chemicals because it is in contact with the whole organism and in equilibrium with the organs and tissues in that chemicals are being accumulated

One of the most important edible mussel species common in the North and Baltic Sea

Bioindicator in rivers and lakes

2nd generation anticoagulant

2nd generation anticoagulant

Antioxidant used in food, cosmetics or packaging materials

Only phthalate of commercial importance with differing side chains, one of them representing a benzyl group

Rare metal which in nature is mostly associated with zinc ores

Basic element for all living organisms and constituent of minerals, e.g. limestone

Property of a substance or radiation to trigger or exacerbate cancer

Group of organic compounds with at least one covalently bonded chlorine atom

1 st generation anticoagulant

Essential steroid and indicator for disorders of the lipid metabolism and for the risk of vascular calcification, heart diseases and stroke

Naturally occurring transition metal

Toxic effects caused by repeated doses of or continous exposure to a substance over a long period of time

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with four connected six-membered rings

A flame retardant

A flame retardant

Naturally occurring transition metal

Here: group of test persons of one sampling site

Common brown alga of the coastal areas of the North and Baltic Sea

A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.

Indicator for renal function

Chemical compounds with identical basic structure but different substitution patterns

Common metal widely used by humans

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with seven connected six-membered rings

1 st generation anticoagulant

Break-down product of creatine phosphate in muscle and indicator for renal dysfunctions

Cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate-mono-(7-carboxylate-4-methyl) heptylester is a secondary metabolite of DINCH®.

Mono(propyl-6-carboxyhexyl) phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DPHP.

Measure for the enrichment of the stable carbon isotope 13C in the food web

Measure for the enrichment of the stable nitrogen isotope 15N in the food web

Toxic and persistent organochloropesticide

Brominated flame retardant with BDE-209 as main component

A brominated flame retardant

Very persistent, very bioaccumulative compound (vPvB)

A flame retardant

A flame retardant

A flame retardant

Chlorinated flame retardants

Sum of needle mass fractions of all age-groups in percent

Indicator for renal function

Potential of a substance to affect growth and development of organisms

Analytically difficult to grasp

Short-chain phthalate

Structural isomer of DEHP

A phthalate, which might soon be subject to more severe regulation

Molecules with identical molecular formula but different structures that are, however, not mirror images of each other

Divided into two parts, plant shots split into two branches

Phthalate with two cyclohexane rings as ester rests

Very effective insecticide that was widely used as contact and stomach poison for soil insects like termites, grasshoppers and beetles and for textile pests until the early 1970s

Short-chain phthalate

Formerly the world's most important plasticizer among the chemical group of phthalates

Important substitute for phthalates

2nd generation anticoagulant

2nd generation anticoagulant

Short-chain phthalate whose use in packaging materials for food has been withdrawn voluntarily by the industry in 2007

Mixture of phthalate diesters differing slightly in branching of the alcohol chains and main substitute of DEHP as plasticizer

Short-chain phthalate

Polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs). Persistent and highly toxic organic pollutants

Very persistent, very bioaccumulative compound (vPvB)

Reference value for contaminant contents, based on the weight of dried material

As an organism living at ground level, it is a major driver of the decomposition of organic material (e.g. plant litter).

As an organism living at ground level, it is a major driver of the decomposition of organic material (e.g. plant litter).

The investigations are carried out in six ecosystem types.

Ecosystems close to conurbations, or urban-industrial ecosystems, are areas of human activity where natural factors are in part significantly modified or annulled and, especially in built-up areas, only function in very fragmented ways.

As the only viviparous fish in German nearshore waters, it is a bioindicator in nearshore coastal marine ecosystems.

Molecule pair with identical molecular formula but laterally reversed steric configuration (mirror images of each other)

Potential of a substance to act like a hormone and disturb the physiological equilibrium of the endocrine system of animals and humans

Natural or synthetic substance that acts like a hormone (hormonally active agent) and thereby disturbs the physiological balance of the endocrine system of animals and humans

Means the concentration of a particular pollutant or group of pollutants in water, sediment or biota which should not be exceeded in order to protect human health and the environment

16 EPA-PAH. List of 16 PAH which have been classified as priority pollutants by the US Environmental Protection Agency and are commonly analysed in environmental samples as representatives of the whole group of PAH

Measure for the size of irregular shaped particles which is, for instance, used in the determination of particle sizes in soils and sediments

Ethyl paraben (EtP) is a preservative which is used in cosmetics and food. In the European Union (EU) methyl paraben and its natrium salt are listed in the regulation of food additives (Regulation (EU) No. 1129/2011) as E numbers E214 and E215.

List generated by the EU and the Scientific Committee Food (SCF) comprising 15+1 priority PAH which are regarded as representative of the whole group of PAH

Increase in concentration of chemical nutrients in an ecosystem which leads to extensive growth of plants, algae, and other photosynthetic organisms like cyanobacteria

A pigeon species home in nearly every city.

Flame retardants reduce the flammability of objects

2nd generation anticoagulant

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with three six-membered rings and one five-membered ring

Almost a third of Germany is covered in forest, most of it under productive forestry management.

Fragrances are used in many different products

Chemical or biological agent intended to kill fungi or fungal spores or inhibit their growth

Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). Persistent and highly toxic organic pollutant

Emerging and novel brominated flame retardants that do not belong to the main groups polybrominated diphenyl ethers and hexabromocyclododecane

Used as fragrance in many products

Widespread herbicide whose risk potential for health and the environment is currently under discussion

The application of heptyl paraben (HeP) as a preservative in cosmetics and food is prohibited in the European Union (EU) since 2014.

Chemical substance used to control unwanted plants (weeds)

Inshore, the herring gull mainly feeds from the sea: upon fish, mussels, and crabs.

A brominated flame retardant

Brominated flame retardant in polystyrene foams and other plastics

Fungicide which was mainly used in seed treatment and as wood and timber preservative

Several isomeric compounds among the group of chlorinated hydrocarbons

Important substitute for phthalates

The world's most important fragrance among the chemical group of polycyclic musks

Metabolite of geraniol

Self-regulation

pooled sample consisting of combined cryogenic material of a specific matrix, e.g. whole organisms like earthworms or organs like fish livers which have been mechanically disrupted and finely ground at cryogenic temperature

Human body fluids and hair

Oxidized metabolite of lilial

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with five six-membered rings and one five-membered ring

Bonding form and oxidation state of elements, used mainly for metals and metalloids

Chemical agent intended to kill insects and their development stages

Naturally occurring transition metal

The application of iso-butyl paraben (iBuP) as a preservative in cosmetics and food is prohibited in the European Union (EU) since 2014.

The application of iso-propyl paraben (iPrP) as a preservative in cosmetics and food is prohibited in the European Union (EU) since 2014.

Chemical compounds with identical molecular formula but different structure (constitutional- or structural isomers) or with different spatial positioning of the atoms (stereoisomers)

Naturally occurring poisonous heavy metal

Fragrance used in cosmetics and cleaning agents

Suspended particulate matter and animal samples from rivers and lakes

Highly effective insecticide that was banned from agricultural use in 2002 and restricted in pharmaceutical use in 2007

Parameter to normalise concentrations of lipophilic substances

Lipophil = “fat-loving”. Property of a substance to dissolve in fats, oils, and non-polar solvents such as hexane or to solve fats and oils itself

A deciduous tree typical of ecosystems close to dense conurbations and an indicator for the characterisation of the immission situation during the vegetation period.

Main metabolite of lilial together with tert-butylbenzoic acid

Oxidized metabolite of lilial

Naturally occurring non-toxic alkaline earth metal

Maximum concentrations at the workplace (Maximale Arbeitsplatz-Konzentrationen)

Tropical disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The main symptom of malaria is cyclical occurrence of fever which may be fatal.

Naturally occurring transition metal

The structure and function of marine ecosystems are not the only factors to take into consideration when analysing marine organisms. All major changes at sea also induce changes in terrestrial ecosystems. The seas serve to regulate the weather, as a transport network, as a source for numerous food and mineral substances and as the final link in the chain of ecosystem loading.

Samples of marine-animals, sea weeds and seabirds

Sample material, e.g. bream liver, bream muscle, soft bodies of mussels

Mono-benzylphthalate is the primary metabolite of Butylbenzyl  phthalate (BBzP) resulting from elimination of the butyl group.

Mono-cyclohexyl phthalate is a primary metabolite of DCHP.

In statistics the numerical value which halves a distribution of size ranked measured values

Mono(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate is the primary metabolite of DEHP after cleavage of one alcohol group.

Monoethyl phthalate is a primary metabolite of DEP.

Naturally occurring highly toxic transition metal, which is liquid at standard conditions for temperature and pressure

Metabolism of chemical substances by cells

Intermediate or product of metabolic processes

Chemical elements which can not be clearly assigned to metals or non metals regarding their physical and chemical properties

Eighty percent of all elements on earth are metals

Methyl paraben (MEP) is a preservative which is used in cosmetics and food. In the European Union (EU) methyl paraben and its natrium salt are listed in the regulation of food additives (Regulation (EU) No. 1129/2011) as E numbers E218 and E219.

Product of methylation of triclosan

Preservatives, that are used alone (MI) or in combination (MCI/MI)

Organometallic compound that is naturally formed from inorganic mercury ions

Mono-iso-butylphthalate is the primary metabolite of DiBP resulting from the elimination of one iso-butyl group.

Cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate-mono-4-methyloctyl ester is the primary metabolite of DINCH® after elimination of an ester rest.

Monomethyl phthalate is a primary metabolite of DMP.

Mono-n-butyl phthalate is the primary metabolite of DnBP resulting from the elimination of one butyl group.

Mono-n-octyl phthalate is a primary metabolite of DnOP.

Mono-n-pentyl phthalate is a primary metabolite of DnPeP.

Chemical agent used to kill molluscs, especially snails and slugs

Potential of a substance or radiation to alter the genetic material of cells and thus increase the frequency of mutations

n-butyl paraben (nBuP) is used as preservative in cosmetics in the European Union (EU) with exception of products for small children.

A versatile solvent classified as reproductive toxicant. Substitute of N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP)

The common metabolite of Methylisothiazolinone (MI) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)

A versatile solvent classified as reproductive toxicant

n-propyl paraben (nPrP) is used as preservative in cosmetics in the European Union (EU) with exception of products for small children.

Clearly defined area protected against human interventions and environmental pollution by precautionary measures. A greater part of the area must meet the requirements of a nature reserve.

Nearly natural ecosystems are exceptional in that they have preserved their ancient structure and function without significant human manipulation.

Naturally occurring transition metal

Only eighteen elements in the periodic table

Germany's largest forest national park

Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chlorinated organochlorine compound

Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic compound (PBT) and very persistent, very bioaccumulative (vPvB) compound

Cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate-mono-(7-hydroxy-4-methyl)octyl ester is a secondary metabolite of DINCH®.

Mono(propyl-6-hydroxyheptyl) phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DPHP.

The organic layer respectively the root network at urban green spaces is an important specimen because both are in direct contact with the atmosphere and thus with air pollutants and substances which are directly applied to the soil. Furthermore, substances which have been deposited on the vegetation enter the organic layer through litter.

Organic substances with at least one mercury atom

Organochloro hydrocarbons with insecticidal properties

Organic substances with at least one metall atom

Class of organometallic compounds of tin

Cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate-mono(oxo-isononyl) ester is a secondary metabolite of DINCH®.

Mono(propyl-6-oxo-heptyl) phthalate is a secondary metabolite of DPHP.

DDD is a metabolite of DDT with insecticidal properties. It is suspected to be carcinogenic and to act as endocrine disruptor.

DDE is the main metabolite of DDT. It is even more persistent than the parent compound and is strongly accumulated by organisms. It is suspected to be carcinogenic, mutagenic and to act as endocrine disruptor.

Preservatives in food and cosmetics

Biometric and anamnestic parameters and substances or groups of substances that describe either the basic physiological state or toxic or carcinogenic conditions.

Important parameter for the characterisation of soils

PCB 101 is a low chlorinated, relatively volatile PCB. Together with other low chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 28 and PCB 52) it stands for acute contamination of the ambient air. It degrades rather fast and accumulation in organisms is lower compared to higher chlorinated congeners.

PCB 105 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 114 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 118 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans. They are highly toxic. Technical mixtures of PCB contain only trace amounts of dioxin-like PCB. They can occur as by-products of incineration processes.

PCB 123 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 126 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.1

PCB 138 is a higher chlorinated PCB. It is hardly degradable and accumulates strongly in organisms and the food web. Together with other high chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 153 and PCB 180) it stands for long-term contamination mainly through food.

PCB 153 is a higher chlorinated PCB. It is hardly degradable and accumulates strongly in organisms and the food web. Together with other high chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 138 and PCB 180) it stands for long-term contamination mainly through food.

PCB 156 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 157 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 167 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 169 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.03

PCB 189 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.00003

PCB 28 is a low chlorinated, volatile PCB. Together with other low chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 52 and PCB 101) it stands for acute contamination of the ambient air. It degrades rather fast and accumulation in organisms is negligible.

PCB 52 is a low chlorinated, volatile PCB. Together with other low chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 28 and PCB 101) it stands for acute contamination of the ambient air. It degrades rather fast and accumulation in organisms is low.

PCB 77 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.0001

PCB 81 belongs to the toxicologically relevant group of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs, also known as WHO-PCBs) that have molecular-biological properties resembling those of dioxins and furans.Toxic equivalency factor according to WHO(2005) (WHO-TEF(2005)): 0.0003

PCB 180 is a higher chlorinated PCB. It is hardly degradable and accumulates strongly in organisms and the food web. Together with other high chlorinated congeners (e.g. PCB 138 and PCB 153) it stands for long-term contamination mainly through food.

A brominated flame retardant

A brominated flame retardant

Persistent chlorinated hydrocarbon

Persistent chlorinated hydrocarbon and effective biocide

The application of pentyl paraben (PeP) as a preservative in cosmetics and food is prohibited in the European Union (EU) since 2014.

Organic compounds which are fully (per-) or partially (poly-) fluorinated

Salts of perchloric acid

Fluorocarbon with 4 C-atoms and one sulfonic acid group; substitute for PFOS in many applications

Fluorocarbon with 4 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 10 C-atoms and one sulfonic acid group

Fluorocarbon with 10 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 12 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 7 C-atoms and one sulfonic acid group

Fluorocarbon with 7 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 6 C-atoms and one sulfonic acid group

Fluorocarbon with 6 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 9 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 8 C-atoms and one sulfonamide group

Fluorocarbon with 8 C-atoms and one sulfonic acid group

Fluorocarbon with 8 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 5 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 14 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 13 C-atoms

Fluorocarbon with 11 C-atoms

Property of substances to remain in the environment over long time without being altered by physical, chemical or biological processes

pH-value as measure for the alkalinity or acidity of a medium

The pH-value in a suspension of sample material and a diluted potassium solution corresponds to the potential acidity.

The pH in a water suspension is a measure for the actual acidity of the sample. It is related to the concentration of free hydrogen ions (H+) in the suspension.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with three connected six-membered rings

Common element in the environment and constituent of many minerals

General-purpose plasticizers for PVC and other polymers

A major primary producer in semi-natural and anthropogenic affected ecosystems.

Brominated organic compounds

Persistent and toxic chlorinated compounds

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofuranes (PCDDs/PCDFs, also PCDD/Fs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) which are in short named "dioxins" or "dioxin" in the strict sense of this term.

Group of organic compounds with at least three condensed six-membered rings

Class of synthetic fragrances

Naturally occurring alkali metal

Fungicide used as biocide, e.g. in wood preservation, and as plant protection product.

Ideal matrix for the detection of internal exposure to methylmercury.

Polyvinyl chloride. Thermoplastic polymer used, for instance, in flooring, upholstery, tubes, and electrical cable insulation

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with four connected six-membered rings

Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

Potential of a substance or radiation to affect fertility and/or embryonic growth

Riverine ecosystems can be considered as the final link in the functional structure of the terrestrial environment, as they function as a sink and a vehicle for discharges from the mainland, which they pass on to the marine ecosystems.

Chemical agent intended to kill rodents like rats and mice

Control agents against mice, rats and other rodents

The roe deer is the most common of the larger herbivores (first order-consumer) to be found in the wild in Europe.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances. EU-Directive 2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronical equipment

Via element analysis in saliva release of alloy components of dental (prothesis) materials can be assessed.

The sampling areas have been selected to represent adequately the major types of ecosystems in Germany and taking into account the varying intensities of anthropogenic impact and land use.

Ideal matrix for the detection of internal exposure to methylmercury.

Relatively rare element that naturally occurs both in its elemental form and in many minerals

Cyclic methylsiloxanes with persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic properties in the environment

Soil is livelihood and biosphere for humans, animals, plants and soil organisms. All the substances brought in are transported, transformed and/or accumulated in the soil.

The specimen types have been selected in such a way as to permit load observations within both a spatial and a time framework, thereby providing optimum information about overall conditions in the various sampling areas.

Atoms of one element with different weights

Measure of variation around the mean value

To achieve a high degree of quality assurance, every step in the procedure from sampling through transport, preparation and analysis of the specimen to long-term storage is the subject of binding Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for each type of specimen.

POP-(Persistent Organic Pollutant) Convention. International agreement on the ban and restriction of certain persistent organic pollutants

Alkaline earth metal with high reactivity that occurs naturally only in compounds with other elements

Student groups with an even number of female and male students at the age of 20 to 29.

The subsoil (B horizon) is often enriched with clay, minerals or organic matter and is therefore also referred to as illuvial horizon. It is the main area of mineralisation. In many soil types the B horizon functions as water reservoir where water soluble pollutants accumulate. Furthermore, the channels of many burrowing soil organisms penetrate the B horizon thus facilitating the contaminant dissemination. The B horizon plays a major role in the cycle of matter because the roots of many plants penetrate through the B horizon and are exposed to the accumulated contaminants. In the subsoil, the samples are taken in the first subsoil horizon of up to 40 cm depth.

Ubiquitous element which naturally occurs in its elementary form as well as in sulfide- and sulfate minerals

Sum of non-dioxin-like (ndl) PCBs: PCB 28, PCB 52, PCB 101, PCB 138, PCB 153, and PCB 180. These six congeners are also called indicator PCBs or ICES-6. The calculation of the sum, all values of the individual congeners that are below the limit of quantification are set equal to the limit of quantification. The calculation is performed according to the upperbound concentration method: upperbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are equal to the limit of quantification.

Sum of non-dioxin-like (ndl) PCBs: PCB 28, PCB 52, PCB 101, PCB 138, PCB 153, and PCB 180. These six congeners are also called indicator PCBs or ICES-6. The calculation of the sum, all values of the individual congeners that are below the limit of quantification are set equal to the limit of quantification. The calculation is performed according to the upperbound concentration method: upperbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are equal to the limit of quantification.

According to the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), brominated diphenyl ethers are subject to an environmental quality standard (EQS) of 0.0085 ng/g in biota. The biota EQS refers to fish and applies to the sum of the congeners BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-153 and BDE-154.

Fine insoluble mineral or organic particles in the water phase

A flame retardant

Fungicide used in plant protection products as well as in biocidal products.

Potential of a substance or radiation to affect the growth and development of an embryo or fetus

Samples of animals living on land and plants growing on land and as well as soil

Rare element which occurs naturally as trace element in many minerals

Vegetation tissue of algae (not differentiated in stem, leave and root

Weight of 1.000 needles of a tree in gram

In- and outlet systems for the tidal current in the mudflat with a relatively stable course despite the  regular flooding

The topsoil (A horizon) is the upper layer of the mineral soil body with high biological activity. It is mostly darker in colour and contains more organic matter than the deeper layer. The topsoil is of special importance in the circulation of contaminants because it is the main root space of plants and the habitat of the majority of soil organism.

Total Bisphenol A is the sum of unconjugated and conjugated BPA.

The total carbon content of a sample comprises the carbon of all inorganic and organic compounds and free carbon.

The TIC of a sample is a measure for the inorganic carbon compounds like carbon dioxide, carbonates and bicarbonates.

The TOC content in a sample is a measure for the organic matter which comprises all living and dead biomass.

Indicator for the protein metabolism

Essential additional parameter for the determination and assessment of renal function

toxicity = poisonousness

Section of a landscape or sampling area defined according to certain criteria

Organometallic compound of tin with three butyl groups

Chlorinated aromatic biocide

Storage form of fatty acids and indicator for several diseases and the risk of thrombosis and vascular calcification

Organometallic compound of tin with three phenyl groups

Genus of flies and vector of the tropical human sleeping sickness and the animal trypanosomiasis (Nagana)

Potential of a substance to accelerate tumour growth

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

UV stabilizer in plastics

Proctection for humans and products

Thickness of fluids, suspensions and liquefied material. Measure for the inner resistance to deformation

1st generation anticoagulant

Clearly definable geographical entity in a landscape which allows a quantification of material transport and conversion (input and output)

Parameter to calculate wet weight from dry weight and vice versa

Reference value for contaminant contents, based on  weight of fresh, undried material.
Synonym: fresh weight

Sum of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent (TEQ) using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using lowerbound concentrations: lowerbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are zero.

Sum of dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using upperbound concentrations: upperbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are equal to the limit of quantification.

Sum of dioxins (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent (TEQ) using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using lowerbound concentrations: lowerbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are zero.

Sum of dioxins (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using upperbound concentrations: upperbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are equal to the limit of quantification.

Sum of dioxins (PCDD/Fs) expressed as WHO toxic equivalent (TEQ) using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using lowerbound concentrations: lowerbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are zero.

Sum of dioxins (PCDD/Fs), expressed as WHO toxic equivalent using the WHO-TEFs(2005), calculation by using upperbound concentrations: upperbound concentrations are calculated on the assumption that all the values of the different congeners below the limit of quantification (LOQ) are equal to the limit of quantification.

Ideal matrix for most chemicals because it is in contact with the whole organism and in equilibrium with the organs and tissues in those chemicals are being accumulated.

Common mussel species as invasive animal in rivers and lakes with high information level for water pollution

Rather common element which occurs mainly in ores