ABSTRACT
Dynamic surface tension measurements can be used to follow changes in adsorption kinetics following biotransformation of dehydroabietic acid to metabolites of reduced toxicity. Since the hydrophobic fraction of kraft mill effluents contains the major toxicants, such surface tension measurements may have application in assessing effluent quality. In a controlled study, hydroxylation of dehydroabietic acid reduced the rate of adsorption at the gas-liquid interface. The maximum bubble pressure method was the technique for dynamic surface tension measurement. Adsorption kinetics are explained in terms of the polarity conferred by the hydroxyl group. Concentration of resin acids at liquid surfaces has bearing on the fate of these toxicants in the environment.
