Persistent pesticides like the older, banned DDT/DDD/DDE can remain in old combs for years, decades.  It has only been within the last few years that I've not seen traces in old combs.
As per water/wax partitioning - partitioning coefficients, Kow, ( In the physical sciences, a partition coefficient or distribution coefficient is the ratio of concentrations of a compound in a mixture of two immiscible solvents at equilibrium. This ratio is therefore a comparison of the solubilities of the solute in these two liquids) are seldom absolutes.  Kow is reported as the equilibrium concentration of the compound in water (honey/nectar) or wax.  Almost all molecules will dissolve at least marginally in both phases.

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