Spatial distribution and temporal trends of cyclic and linear siloxanes in sediment from semi-enclosed and industrialized bays of Korea, in 2013 and 2021

Although siloxanes are contaminants of emerging concerns, limited studies have been conducted on contamination and time trends in from aquatic environments worldwide. To date, most previous focused the environmental relevance cyclic coastal environments. In present study, linear were measured sediment collected semi-enclosed bays Korea 2013 2021 to assess occurrence, spatial distribution, temporal trends, ecological risks. Almost all detected samples, indicating continuous for last decade. The concentrations approximately two times higher than those siloxanes. Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane (D6) predominantly possibly due their high consumption strong resistance. overall gradually decreased inner outer parts bays, suggesting that industrial activities largely contributed siloxane contamination. Moreover, highest both sampling years observed near outfall wastewater treatment plant, implying a potential source environment. Siloxane significantly correlated with sedimentary organic carbon. not different between 2021, ongoing D5 D6 our samples showed pose threat benthic organisms.