Analysis of organotin compounds

Organotin compounds (also known as TBT or ship antifouling) are part of the industrial chemicals group and have been technically produced on a large scale. TBT has a very high toxicity for aqueous organisms. It is genotoxic and, moreover, shows endocrine effects. Organotin compounds strongly tend to adsorb on solid matters and only degrade partly in nature. This leads among others to an enrichment in sediments and sewage sludge so that past emissions as well could entail an enduring pollution of aqueous systems. Since January 2003 the use of TBT-containing ship paints has been totally banned within the EU. TBT is classified as priority hazardous substance in the EU water framework guideline.

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