Easier removal of nonylphenol and naphthalene pollutants in wet weather revealed by Markov chains modeling

The distribution and fate of organic pollutants determines pollution control strategies and definition of environmental standards. So far, few models predict accurately the fate of organic pollutants. Therefore, here we tested the Markov chains model to simulate the distribution and fate of nonylphenol and naphthalene in the aquatic environment. Results show that the removal of nonylphenol and naphthalene from the water/sediment system is higher in the wet season and lower in the dry season. Due to its hydrophilic hydroxyl group, nonylphenol remains in water, whereas naphthalene, being more hydrophobic, accumulates in the sediment. Results of Markov chains modeling perfectly matched results from microcosm experiments.