Effect and Disposition of TNT in a Terrestrial Plant and Validation of Analytical Methods

Little is known about the response of terrestrial plants to 2,4,6- trinitrotoluene TNT. The objectives of this study were to develop and test a method for measuring the amounts of TNT and its metabolites in plant tissue and to assess their effects in yellow nutsedge Cyperus esculentus L.. The method developed was tested for its precision and accuracy for measuring TNT and its metabolites. The minimum detection limits of the method were 0.4, 0.6 and 0.9 mgkg for TNT, 4-ADNT and 2-ADNT, respectively. Homogenization of plant tissue prior to analysis did not improve precision or recovery of naturally incorporated residues. Spike recoveries ranged from 46 to 101. Two plant growth and uptake studies were conducted by growing nutsedge in hydroponic cultures containing TNT concentrations ranging from 0 to 20 mgL. The greatest changes in physiological activity occurred between solution concentrations of 0. 5 and 5.0 mgL of TNT. Within this range, new plant growth became increasingly inhibited. Physiological effects from TNT may occur at levels below 0.5 mgL. Root growth was affected Most, followed by rhizomes and leaves. TNT and metabolites were found throughout the plant. Since TNT was the only compound present in the cultures, the metabolites must have been formed within the plant. Chemical analysis, Plant growth, TNT.