Research on Estuary Monitoring Using Innovative Passive Sampling Technology

In December 2024, the GEM research team conducted a new study on monitoring emerging pollutants in estuaries employing passive sampling technology. The team selected six estuaries in Hong Kong, deploying a total of 27 sampling locations spanning from the upstream river to the estuary.

The passive samplers utilized this time were the third-generation artificial mussel developed by the State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution. The adsorption material equipped was smart sponge. Additionally, traditional hydrophilic-lipophilic-balanced (HLB) material was employed in select sampling locations to compare the sampling efficiency of emerging pollutants. Over 100 pesticides and pharmaceuticals were chosen as model pollutants to assess their adsorption capabilities, encompassing a diverse range of physical and chemical properties.

Figure 1 Passive samplers underwater

Following a 14-day field deployment, the passive samplers were retrieved by the team in early January. The majority of the passive samplers (18 out of 27 sampling locations) were successfully recovered. Subsequent analyses will focus on identifying and comparing the concentrations of emerging pollutants adsorbed in the smart sponges and HLB materials with concentration data obtained from grab sampling. These comparisons aim to ascertain crucial parameters including pollutant sampling rates facilitated by the passive samplers.

Figure 2 Passive samplers before and after sampling

This research endeavor will establish a robust research protocol for the second phase of the GEM Programme. It aims to assess the viability of employing innovative passive samplers in estuaries worldwide. The team anticipates the official launch of the second phase of the GEM Programme within the year, marking a significant leap forward in marine environmental monitoring and research.

Figure 3 Research team