Electromembrane extraction for multiclass pesticide assessment in soil matrices: sustainable analytical insights

Abstract

The extensive use of pesticides in agriculture has led to their accumulation in environmental compartments, especially soils. Given their potential impact on ecosystems and human health, developing effective analytical methods to assess pesticide persistence and mobility in soil is essential. However, soil is a complex matrix with numerous interfering substances that challenge accurate analysis. This study reports the development of a U-shaped electromembrane extraction method coupled with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for detecting multiclass pesticides in soil samples. Key extraction parameters are optimized, achieving efficient performance in 15 min using a sample pH of 8, stirring at 1000 rpm, and 10% (w/v) NaCl. The method demonstrates linearity between 500 and 1000 mg kg1 with R2 > 0.9800, limits of detection between 91.6 and 171.4 mg kg1, and recovery rates from 84.5% to 101.2%. Furthermore, the approach is evaluated using AGREEprep and GAPI tools, highlighting its compliance with green analytical chemistry principles. Overall, this work introduces an effective, environmentally friendly methodology for the determination of pesticide residues in soil, reinforcing the potential of electromembrane extraction for complex environmental matrices.