Bioavailability of 2,4-D sorbed to a chlorite-like complex.

An Al(OH)x-montmorillonite (chlorite) complex (AM18) was prepared and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) sorbed to saturation. After several washing cycles the 'strongly sorbed' 2,4-D was 507 micrograms g-1 AM18. The bioavailability of sorbed 2,4-D was assessed in a minimal salts medium with the AM18-2,4-D as the sole C and energy source. Over a 28-day period a Pseudomonas sp. degraded 23% more of the sorbed 2,4-D than could be accounted for by desorption from AM18 in the non-inoculated controls. Possible explanations for the increase in bioavailability are presented.