PBDE Analysis
For over 19 years, PRL has been analyzing for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) at ultra trace levels using high resolution mass spectrometers (HRMS) in water, sediment, food, pharmaceuticals, and more.
What are pbdes?
Polybrominated diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are commonly used flame retardants and are one of the most recent additions to the Stockholm Convention’s POPs list.
A relatively new chemical, identification of PBDE’s in environmental samples didn’t occur until the 1990’s. Among the alarming trends, relatively high levels of PBDEs found in breast milk were increasing, with some of the highest levels being found in the Arctic regions (important trends for countries such as Norway, Finland, Sweden, Canada and Russia).
Concentrations of PBDEs in dust have been found at the part per million level. PBDEs are found in many common household mainstays such as foam in furniture, carpets, and window coverings, and in all our electronics. Most industries voluntarily removed the compound from the marketplace years ago, but the average household still contains significant levels of PBDE. Unfortunately, the highest levels reported for PBDEs come from North America.
Three commercial formulations of PBDEs, penta-BDE, octa-BDE and deca-BDE, are produced for use exclusively as flame retardants. Each formulation consists of a mix of PBDE homologues with different bromination patterns and different physiochemical properties. Deca-BDE accounts for 75% of PBDE production, but the congener profile commonly found in biota is often similar to the penta-BDE commercial product, a mix of tetra-, penta- and some hexa-BDE. Research suggests this biotic congener profile results from a preferential uptake of lower brominated compounds
Why is testing for pbdes important?
The toxicological profile of PBDEs suggests that exposure may interfere with development, behaviour, and reproduction. Experimental animal studies have shown that prenatal exposure to PBDEs can affect neurodevelopment, resulting in decreased motor function. Adult animals exposed to PBDEs have exhibited decreased reproductive success and impaired immune function. PBDEs can affect the normal functioning of endocrine or hormone systems and neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, both possible mechanism of action behind the observed health effects in experimental animals. Thyroid disruption was one of the most common and sensitive endpoints observed in animal studies
how pacific rim laboratories can help you
Pacific Rim Laboratories tests for 36 congeners of PBDEs using EPA 1614A as a reference method.
Contact us today to get started on your testing journey.
