Analysis of thermoplastic resins for brominated dibenzofurans

Abstract

Certain thermoplastic resins, brominated diphenyl ether flame retardants, a pyrolysate and fumes collected during resin extrusion were analyzed for brominated dibenzofurans (PBDF) to assess the potential for encountering PBDF in the environment. EPA methods (RCRA Method 8280 and CERCLA IFB WA84-A002) were modified as needed to allow determination of PBDF in these matrices. Except for the base resins, all samples were found to contain PBDF. The pyrolysate also contained compounds whose structures were assigned to be brominated dioxins (PBDD) and possibly brominated xanthenes (PBX) or methyl-PBDF.