Phthalates contamination in the coastal and marine sediments of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Coastal and marine environments have been strongly influenced by anthropogenic activities, which may lead to high concentrations of different pollutants in sediments. Our study aimed to assess sediment contamination by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates (PAEs) and bisphenol A (BPA) in nine coastal and marine environments at Rio de Janeiro-Brazil. Physical and chemical water variables, grain-size parameters, moisture, and organic-matter content in sediments were assessed by sampling station. Multivariate analysis evidenced environmental differences between coastal lagoon and oceanic beaches, mostly influenced by marine waters. Differences among bay's beaches were mostly evidenced by sediment characteristics. PAHs and BPA were not detected in samples. For the first time, PAEs were found in sediments at Rio de Janeiro coast (South Atlantic). DEHP was detected in all coastal and marine environments, DBP was found in coastal lagoon and three marine environments. DnOP and DINP were solely found in the coastal lagoon. •Sediment contamination was investigated in coastal and marine systems at Brazil.•For the first time, PAEs were found in sediments at Rio de Janeiro coast.•DEHP was detected in the nine coastal and marine environments evaluated.•DBP was found in the coastal lagoon and three marine environments.•DnOP and DINP were solely found in Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.