New data suggest PBDE byproducts are ubiquitous in U.S. waters

摘要

Research published in ES&T (DOI 10.1021/es9003679) shows for the first time that compounds produced when PBDE flame retar-dants are exposed to wastewater treatment can generate dioxins. Kris McNeill, Bill Arnold, and their University of Minne-rnsota colleagues say they believe that the photo-chemically created bromi-nated and mixed halogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins they discovered are likely to be "ubiquitous in aquatic environments." Experts agree that both the dioxins and the compounds that produce them, hydroxylated PBDEs (OH-PBDEs), could be impacting aquatic wildlife, and humans as well.