ABSTRACT
Malathion (O,O dimethyl phosphorodithioate of diethyl mercaptosuccinate) is one of
the most world widely used as a non-systemic pesticide. Water contamination by
malathion is problematic in factories, stores and end user sites. Seven of the most
common non-polar solvents have been tested as water decontaminating agents.
Stock solution containing 145 mg Malathion per liter of deionized water was
prepared.50 ml samples were mixed with known volumes of the selected extracting
agent. The mixture was then stirred for a prescribed time interval at a fixed
temperature. The phases were then separated and analyzed using a high
performance liquid chromatograph. The extraction efficiency was calculated, and
effect of each of the operating parameters on its value was determined. Benzene
was found to be the most efficient extracting agent. The favorable mode of extraction
and operating conditions are presented.