CEST2025

Organic micropollutants pose a growing threat to aquatic environments due to their persistence, toxicity, and ubiquity. This study investigates the occurrence and distribution of these pollutants in groundwater samples from the Kifissos River basin, Greece. Samples collected from multiple locations were comprehensively screened for a diverse range utilizing liquid chromatography coupled with trapped ion mobility spectrometry and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-TIMS-HRMS). A wide-scope target analysis workflow was followed, with a database of >2,500 compounds. The generic analytical workflow enables the detection and quantification of trace-level contaminants in complex environmental matrices. Results revealed the widespread presence of several pollutants, highlighting the impact of anthropogenic activities. The study further evaluated potential risks by comparing detected concentrations with relevant environmental quality standards. Findings underscore the necessity for advanced monitoring strategies and inform future water management policies within the river basin. This research demonstrates the efficacy of LC-TIMS-HRMS and wide-scope target approaches in environmental assessment and contributes critical insight into the status and risks of the contamination in the Kifissos basin.