In order to evaluate the biodegradability of four anionic surfactants (LAS, SDS, n-SDBS, STPBS) in sea water, 19-day biodegradation tests were conducted, according to the method required by the Health Ministry for approval of commercial products. This method was modified for testing in sea water, as it originally had been described for freshwater. The modifications were considered sufficient as the microorganisms remain active till the end of the test. The results suggested that the biodegradation process was slower in sea water than in freshwater.
Anionic Surfactants; Biodegradability; LAS; SDS; n-SDBS; STPBS