Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used as flame retardants in plastic and foam items within electrical and electronic equipment and motor vehicles. As part of the implementation of the Persistent Organic Pollutants Regulation (Regulation 850/2004/EC), the EU intends to set limit values for new substances added on Persistent Organic Pollutants (2009) for specific waste streams, which include waste electrical and electronic equipment, and end of life vehicles. EPA is concerned that certain PBDE congeners are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic to humans and the environment. The critical endpoint of concern for human health is neurobehavioral effects.

How SIG can help

SIG laboratory with a high-resolution gas chromatography method based on mass spectrometry was developed for testing PBBs, PBDEs, and HBCDD

Method of Analysis

The analysis for PBBs, PBDEs, and HBCDD is carried out using a GCMSMS. The GCMSMS is a very sensitive and high-resolution  instrument.