Measurement of flame retardants polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) in house dust

Stapleton, H; Dodder, N; Schantz, M; Wise, S

HERO ID

4152179

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2004

Language

English

HERO ID 4152179
In Press No
Year 2004
Title Measurement of flame retardants polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) in house dust
Authors Stapleton, H; Dodder, N; Schantz, M; Wise, S
Journal Organohalogen Compounds
Volume 66
Page Numbers 3740–3744
Abstract Current monitoring of polybrominated di phenyl ethers (PBDEs) has shown that concentrations are increasing in the environment very rapidly with doubling times as short as three to five years. North America consumes a large percentage of the global market demand for PBDEs, and as a result, concentrations of PBDEs in human milk and serum are an order of magnitude higher in women from North America relative to Europe. Within sampled populations, PBDE levels in human serum have been shown to range over an order of magnitude, and high levels cannot always be attributed to occupational exposure, age or diet. One source that may be responsible for these observations is exposure in the home. These compounds are liberally applied to many common household items such as furniture, mattresses, computers and TVs to retard or hinder the outbreak of fire. Over time, these flame retardants may leach out into the home environment, where they may be inhaled or ingested, resulting in elevated levels in human serum. Very few studies have examined PBDE levels within the home and only one study has measured the concentrations of two PBDE congeners in house dust. The present study was undertaken to measure a suite PBDE congeners in house dust from a variety of homes and to assess the contribution of the three commercial PBDE mixtures (penta-, octa- and decaBDE) to the house dust composition. In addition, we also measured the concentrations of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), another flame retardant. Correlations with properties of the houses such as year of construction, square footage, carpeting coverage and number of computers in the house were also examined for any positive influences.
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public No
Language Text English
Is Peer Review No