Children's exposure to hazardous brominated flame retardants in plastic toys

Update of the scientific opinion on tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and its derivatives in food

The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and five derivatives in food. Neurotoxicity and carcinogenicity were considered as the critical effects of TBBPA in rodent studies. The available evidence indicates that the carcinogenicity of TBBPA occurs via non-genotoxic mechanisms. Taking into account the new data, the CONTAM Panel considered it appropriate to set a tolerable daily intake (TDI). Based on decreased interest in social interaction in male mice, a lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of 0.2 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day was identified and selected as the reference point for the risk characterisation. Applying the default uncertainty factor of 100 for inter- and intraspecies variability, and a factor of 3 to extrapolate from the LOAEL to NOAEL, a TDI for TBBPA of 0.7 μg/kg bw per day was established. Around 2100 analytical results for TBBPA in food were used to estimate dietary exposure for the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary LB exposure to TBBPA were fish and seafood, meat and meat products and milk and dairy products. The exposure estimates to TBBPA were all below the TDI, including those estimated for breastfed and formula-fed infants. Accounting for the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the CONTAM Panel concluded with 90%-95% certainty that the current dietary exposure to TBBPA does not raise a health concern for any of the population groups considered. There were insufficient data on the toxicity of any of the TBBPA derivatives to derive reference points, or to allow a comparison with TBBPA that would support assignment to an assessment group for the purposes of combined risk assessment.

An emission model for inhalable chemicals from children's play mats based on partition coefficients

Inhalable chemicals found in children's play mats can be slowly released into indoor environments and consequently threaten human health. In this study, the partition coefficients of seven inhalable chemicals between play mats and air were calculated by headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based on the law of conservation of mass and the principle of equilibrium of headspace bottles. Furthermore, an emission source model for the residual ratio of the inhalable chemicals in play mats was established. Most substances found in play mats have large partition coefficients owing to the complex void structure of the mats, which adsorbs a large number of organic pollutants. The partition coefficient is not only related to the boiling point and environmental temperature, but also the specific material and the adsorption of the organic pollutant onto the material. The emission source model for children's play mats developed in this study can characterize the decay of the inhalable chemicals over time. The data showed that after eight days of placing the play mat in a ventilated environment, the residual ratio of seven inhalable chemicals did not exceed 15 %.

Integrating Post-Ionization Separation via Differential Mobility Spectrometry into Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry for Toy Safety Screening

Direct analysis in real time (DART) enables direct desorption and ionization of analytes, bypassing the time-consuming chromatographic separation traditionally required for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. However, DART-MS suffers from matrix interference of complex samples, resulting in compromised detection sensitivity and quantitation accuracy. In this study, DART-MS was combined with differential mobility spectrometry (DMS) to provide an additional dimension of post-ionization ion mobility separation within a millisecond time scale, compensating for the lack of separation in DART-MS analysis. As proof-of-concept, primary aromatic amines (PAAs), a class of potentially hazardous chemicals, were analyzed in various toy products, including bubble solutions, finger paints, and plush toys. In addition to commercial Dip-it glass rod and metal mesh sampling tools, a customized rapid extractive evaporation device was designed for the accelerated extraction and sensitive analysis of solid toy samples. The incorporation of DMS in DART-MS analysis enabled the rapid separation and differentiation of isomeric analytes, leading to improved accuracy and reliability. The developed protocols were optimized and validated, achieving good linearity with correlation coefficients greater than 0.99 and acceptable repeatability with relative standard deviations less than 10%. Moreover, satisfactory sensitivity was realized with limits of detection and quantitation ranges of 0.2-5 and 1-20 μg/kg (μg/L) for the 11 PAA analytes. The established methodology was applied for the analysis of real toy samples (n = 18), which confirmed its appealing potential for toy safety screening and consumer health protection.

Concentrations and legislative aspects of PBDEs in plastic of waste electrical and electronic equipment in Brazil

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) have been widely used as additives in polymeric products such as electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) to help meet fire safety regulations. However, some BFRs like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are now listed under the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and banned in many countries, due to their adverse health impacts, environmental persistence, and capacity for bioaccumulation and long-range atmospheric transport. Despite this, in Brazil, only a few studies exist of the presence of these contaminants in the environment, and even fewer in waste EEE (WEEE). Against this backdrop, this study measured the presence of PBDEs in samples (n = 159) of WEEE in the metropolitan region of Sorocaba, Sao Paulo, Brazil. PBDEs were detected in 149 samples, with concentrations in 18 samples exceeding the European Union's Low POP Content Limit (LPCL) of 1000 mg/kg. Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) was the congener present at the highest concentration in most samples, with those of other PBDEs such as BDE-47 much lower. In general, samples containing >1000 mg/kg are those categorised as display items and miscellaneous EEE (n = 15.27 %), comprising: parts from cathode ray tube TVs (n = 11), audio systems (n = 2), and LCD TVs (n = 2). In addition, in 5 % (n = 3) of IT and telecommunications equipment samples (computer parts) PBDE concentrations exceeded 1000 mg/kg. Our results show the need for greater control and monitoring of the presence of these pollutants in WEEE before recycling and final disposal, to prevent PBDEs entering the recycling stream.

Update of the risk assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in food

The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in food, focusing on 10 congeners: BDE-28, -47, -49, -99, -100, -138, -153, -154, -183 and ‑209. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the neurodevelopmental effects on behaviour and reproductive/developmental effects are the critical effects in rodent studies. For four congeners (BDE-47, -99, -153, -209) the Panel derived Reference Points, i.e. benchmark doses and corresponding lower 95% confidence limits (BMDLs), for endpoint-specific benchmark responses. Since repeated exposure to PBDEs results in accumulation of these chemicals in the body, the Panel estimated the body burden at the BMDL in rodents, and the chronic intake that would lead to the same body burden in humans. For the remaining six congeners no studies were available to identify Reference Points. The Panel concluded that there is scientific basis for inclusion of all 10 congeners in a common assessment group and performed a combined risk assessment. The Panel concluded that the combined margin of exposure (MOET) approach was the most appropriate risk metric and applied a tiered approach to the risk characterisation. Over 84,000 analytical results for the 10 congeners in food were used to estimate the exposure across dietary surveys and age groups of the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary Lower Bound exposure to PBDEs were meat and meat products and fish and seafood. Taking into account the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the Panel concluded that it is likely that current dietary exposure to PBDEs in the European population raises a health concern.

Chemical characteristics of artificial plastic plants and the presence of hazardous elements from the recycling of electrical and electronic waste

Because of their convenience, the demand for decorative plastic plants has been increasing over recent years. However, no information exists on the origin or nature of the polymers employed or the type of additives used in order to understand potential environmental impacts and inform safe and sustainable disposal or recycling practices. In this study, 203 parts or offcuts from 175 plastic plants acquired from European shops and venues have been analysed by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to determine elemental content, while a selection has been analysed by infrared spectrometry to establish polymer type. The (usually green) moulded components (n = 159) were commonly constructed of polyethylene or polypropylene, while leaves and colourful petals (n = 40) were generally made of polyethylene terephthalate fabric that had been glued to the moulded component. However, both components also exhibited evidence of being coated with a resin or adhesive for support, protection or appearance. Barium, Fe, Ti and Zn-based additives were commonly encountered but more important from an environmental and health perspective were variable concentrations of potentially hazardous elements in the moulded parts: namely, Br (6.1 to 108,000 mg kg-1; n = 78), Pb (7.6 to 17,400 mg kg-1; n = 53) and Sb (58.6 to 70,800 mg kg-1; n = 17). These observations suggest that many of the moulded components are derived from recyclates that are contaminated by waste electronic and electrical plastic, introducing brominated flame retardants, the flame retardant synergist, Sb2O3, and Pb into the final product. There are no standards for these chemicals in plastic plants, but regulations for electronic plastic, toy safety and packaging are frequently exceeded or potentially exceeded. Widespread contamination of plastic plants may impose constraints on their recycling and disposal.

Has Regulatory Action Reduced Human Exposure to Flame Retardants?

Flame retardant (FR) exposure has been linked to several environmental and human health effects. Because of this, the production and use of several FRs are regulated globally. We reviewed the available records of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDDs) in human breast milk from literature to evaluate the efficacy of regulation to reduce the exposure of FRs to humans. Two-hundred and seven studies were used for analyses to determine the spatial and temporal trends of FR exposure. North America consistently had the highest concentrations of PBDEs, while Asia and Oceania dominated HBCDD exposure. BDE-49 and -99 indicated decreasing temporal trends in most regions. BDE-153, with a longer half-life than the aforementioned isomers, typically exhibited a plateau in breast milk levels. No conclusive trend could be established for HBCDD, and insufficient information was available to determine a temporal trend for BDE-209. Breakpoint analyses indicated a significant decrease in BDE-47 and -99 in Europe around the time that regulation has been implemented, suggesting a positive effect of regulation on FR exposure. However, very few studies have been conducted globally (specifically in North America) after 2013, during the time when the most recent regulations have been implemented. This meta-analysis provides insight into global trends in human exposure to PBDEs and HBCDD, but the remaining uncertainty highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and monitoring, even after a compound group is regulated.

Chemometrics-based Discrimination of Virgin and Recycled Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene Plastics Toys via Non-targeted Screening of Volatile Substances

Owing to the growing emphasis on child safety, it is greatly urgent to identify and assess the unknown compounds and discriminate the recycled materials for plastic toys. In this study, gas chromatography mass spectrometry coupled with static headspace has been optimized by response surface methodology for non-targeted screening of unknown volatiles in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic toys. Optimum conditions for static headspace were 120 °C for extraction temperature and 48 min for extraction time. A total of 83 volatiles in 11 categories were qualitatively identified by matching the NIST database library, retention index and standard materials. Considering high positive rate and potential toxicity, high-risk volatiles in ABS plastic toys were listed and traced for safety pre-warning. Moreover, the differential volatiles between virgin and recycled ABS plastics were screened out by orthogonal partial least-squares discrimination analysis. Principal component analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis and linear discrimination analysis were employed to successfully discriminate recycled ABS plastic toys based on the differential volatiles. The proposed strategy represents an effective and promising analytical method for non-targeted screening and risk assessment of unknown volatiles and discrimination of recycled materials combining with various chemometric techniques for children's plastic products to safeguard children's health.

Metals as toxicants in event-based expedited production of children's jewelry

Globally, the hazardous substance in children's goods is of great concern. Toxic chemicals are potentially harmful to the health and growth of infants and children. Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd)-contaminated children's jewelry is widely encountered in many countries. This study aims to determine the concentration of metal toxicants (Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Zn, Co, and Fe) in event-based (Independence Day festival) children's jewelry, considering time-limited and fast production products that may compromise the quality and safety parameters during manufacturing. The determinations are for the time-constraint industrial production of children's jewelry in the context of the toxic substances in a variety of base materials used. This is the first time event-based children's jewelry has been monitored and critically assessed for metal contamination. Forty-two samples, including metallic, wooden, textile, rubber, plastic, and paint-coated plastic children's jewelry, were tested. Seventy-four percent of samples detected Pb and Cd in quantifiable amounts. Ni in 71%, Cu in 67%, Co in 43%, and Zn and Fe were detected in 100% samples with quantifiable amounts. Twenty-two ID-CJ samples exceeded the US regulatory limit for Pb and four samples for Cd. However, twenty-nine samples for Pb, eleven for Cd, five for Co, and one for Cu exceeded the EU regulatory limit. The highest concentration of Pb was found in paint-coated plastic jewelry, and the highest Cd was found in metallic jewelry. These results suggest that the potential hazards of event-based children's jewelry deserve the attention of government agencies seeking to limit children's exposure to toxic chemicals. Intergovernmental organizations and individual countries regulate chemicals in consumer products, but a coordinated international approach is lacking. Some continents and countries still lack in regulations for children's products, especially jewelry, and toys.

Recycling of Plastics from E-Waste via Photodegradation in a Low-Pressure Reactor: The Case of Decabromodiphenyl Ether Dispersed in Poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and Poly(carbonate)

Recycling of plastic waste from electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), containing brominated flame retardants (BFR) remains difficult due to the increasingly stringent regulations on their handling and recovery. This report deals with photodegradation in a low-pressure reactor applying UV-visible light on Decabromodiphenyl ether (DBDE or BDE-209) randomly dispersed in commercially available Poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) (ABS) and Poly(carbonate) (PC). The aim of this study is to investigate the possibility of decomposing a BFR in plastic waste from EEE while maintaining the specifications of the polymeric materials in order to allow for their recycling. The photodegradation of the extracted BFR was monitored using infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy. DBDE underwent rapid photodegradation during the first minutes of exposure to UV-visible light and reached degradation yields superior to 90% after 15 min of irradiation. The evaluation of polymer properties (ABS and PC) after irradiation revealed superficial crosslinking effects, which were slightly accelerated in the presence of DBDE. However, the use of a low-pressure reactor avoids large photooxidation and allowed to maintain the thermal and structural properties of the virgin polymers.

An Efficient Composite Modifier Prepared for Enhancing the Crystallization and Flame-Retardancy of Poly(m-xylylene adipamide)

Poly(m-xylylene adipamide) (MXD6) has good gas barrier properties and high mechanical strength. However, in nature, this resin has a low rate of crystallization. In order to overcome this obstacle in its applications, this study prepares a new, efficient modifier for MXD6 by combining the synthesized DOPO derivative (DT) and P22. It is found that the use of the binary modifier exhibits obvious effects on the crystallization of MXD6. When 11.0 wt.% DT is added together with 0.1 wt.% P22 (DT/P22), the crystallization temperature of MXD6 shifts to a higher temperature of 19.7 °C, and the crystallinity degree of MXD6 is significantly increased by 60%. Meanwhile, this modifier exhibits obviously intumescent flame-retardancy on MXD6 by increasing the limited oxygen index (LOI) from 26.4% to 33.4%. The results of the cone calorimeter test (CCT) reveal that the peak heat release rate (PHRR), total heat release (THR) and average effective heat release (av-EHC) are obviously suppressed due to the use of this modifier. Moreover, the influences of this modifier on the crystal structures, mechanical and rheological properties of MXD6 are analyzed in detail. This study can provide an efficient modifier for MXD6.

Relationships between House Characteristics and Exposures to Metal(loid)s and Synthetic Organic Contaminants Evaluated Using Settled Indoor Dust

This study investigates associations between house characteristics and chemical contaminants in house dust, collected under the nationally representative Canadian House Dust Study (2007−2010). Vacuum samples (<80 µm fraction) were analysed for over 200 synthetic organic compounds and metal(loid)s. Spearman rank correlations between contaminant concentrations in dust and presence of children and pets, types of flooring, heating styles and other characteristics suggested a number of indoor sources, pointing to future research directions. Numerous synthetic organics were significantly associated with reported use of room deodorizers and with the presence of cats in the home. Hardwood flooring, which is a manufactured wood product, emerged as a source of metal(loid)s, phthalates, organophosphate flame retardants/plasticizers, and obsolete organochlorine pesticides such as ∑DDT (but not halogenated flame retardants). Many metal(loid)s were significantly correlated with flame-retardant compounds used in building materials and heating systems. Components of heating appliances and heat distribution systems appeared to contribute heat-resistant chemicals and alloys to settled dust. Carpets displayed a dual role as both a source and repository of dust-borne contaminants. Contaminant loadings (<80 µm fraction) were significantly elevated in heavily carpeted homes, particularly those located near industry. Depending on the chemical (and its source), the results show that increased dust mass loading may enrich or dilute chemical concentrations in dust. Research is needed to improve the characterisation of hidden indoor sources such as flame retardants used in building materials and heating systems, or undisclosed ingredients used in common household products, such as air fresheners and products used for companion animals.

Selection of recycled waste plastic for incorporation in sustainable asphalt pavements: A novel multi-criteria screening tool based on 31 sources of plastic

This study investigated the suitability of 31 recycled waste plastic samples obtained from 15 major recycling companies across Australia and New Zealand to be used as bitumen/asphalt modifiers. The plastics have been selected to be representative of recycled waste plastic around Australia and New Zealand. The recycled waste plastics belonged to either the post-industrial or post-consumer collection scheme. A new classification scheme was developed to rank each recycled waste plastic based on their chemical and physical properties against those of bitumen/asphalt. Specifically, density, polarity, melting point, solubility and melt flow index of the samples as well as the presence of contaminants, fillers and additives were analyzed for each recycled waste plastic material and their virgin counterpart. These 8 properties were used to rank various sources of recycled low-density poly(ethylene), linear low-density poly(ethylene), high density poly(ethylene) and poly(propylene) in addition to commingled plastics based on their suitability for bitumen modification (wet method). The modification of asphalt via replacement of virgin quarry aggregate with plastic aggregate (dry method) by recycled acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and poly(ethylene terephthalate) was also assessed by considering four criteria of purity, polarity, recycling contamination and hazardous additives. This new multi-criterion ranking approach revealed that low-density and linear low-density poly(ethylene) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and poly(ethylene terephthalate) should be preferentially used as bitumen/asphalt modifiers. This tool has been developed for recycling companies and bitumen/asphalt contractors to determine the suitability of recycled waste plastics within asphalt roads by a series of experimental techniques.

Dissolution from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Copolymer Long-Acting Implants: Effect of Model Active Ingredient Size and Shape

In recent pharmaceutical applications, an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) can be mixed with a polymer material to yield a composite long-acting drug-delivery device. These devices boast higher patient compliance, localized drug delivery, and lower dosage concentrations, which can increase patient safety. As a laboratory-safe option, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) was used as a drug surrogate to mimic the release kinetics of a low-solubility API. The release of CaCO₃ from a poly(ethylene vinyl acetate) (EVA) polymer matrix was studied in ultra-high-purity water. The geometry of CaCO_3, along with the manufacturing technique, was manipulated to study the implications on surrogate drug release. It was found that injection molding proved to yield higher burst release, due to higher pressures achievable during manufacturing. The extrusion process can affect the surface concentration of the pharmaceutical ingredient when extruded through a water bath, resulting in a lower initial burst concentration. Regarding CaCO₃ geometry, the particle size was more critical than the surface area in terms of CaCO₃ release. Larger particles showed a higher release rate, though they also displayed higher variability in release. These data can be used to engineer specific release profiles when designing composite formulations and manufacturing methods for pharmaceutical-drug-delivery applications.

PBDEs in the marine environment: Sources, pathways and the role of microplastics

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are an important group of additives in plastics that increase resistance to ignition and slow down the rate of burning. Because of concerns about their environmental and human health impacts, however, some of the most widely employed BFRs, including hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and commercial mixtures of penta-, octa- and deca- (poly)bromodiphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have been restricted or phased out. In this review, the oceanic sources and pathways of PBDEs, the most widely used BFRs, are evaluated and quantified, with particular focus on emissions due to migration from plastics into the atmosphere versus emissions associated with the input of retarded or contaminated plastics themselves. Calculations based on available measurements of PBDEs in the environment suggest that 3.5 and 135 tonnes of PBDEs are annually deposited in the ocean when scavenged by aerosols and through air-water gas exchange, respectively, with rivers contributing a further ∼40 tonnes. Calculations based on PBDE migration from plastic products in use or awaiting or undergoing disposal yield similar net inputs to the ocean but indicate a relatively rapid decline over the next two decades in association with the reduction in the production and recycling of these chemicals. Estimates associated with the input of PBDEs to the ocean when "bound" to marine plastics and microplastics range from about 360 to 950 tonnes per year based on the annual production of plastics and PBDEs over the past decade, and from about 20 to 50 tonnes per annum based on the abundance and distribution of PBDEs in marine plastic litter. Because of the persistence and pervasiveness of plastics in the ocean and diffusion coefficients for PBDEs on the order of 10^-20 to 10^-27 m² s^-1, microplastics are likely to act as a long-term source of these chemicals though gradual migration. Locally, however, and more important from an ecotoxicological perspective, PBDE migration may be significantly enhanced when physically and chemically weathered microplastics are exposed to the oily digestive fluids conditions of fish and seabirds.

Atmospheric concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls, brominated flame retardants, and novel flame retardants in Lagos, Nigeria indicate substantial local sources

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants (BFRs) like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), and novel flame retardants (NFRs) like decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants. Despite this, little is known about their concentrations in outdoor air in the African continent. To address this knowledge gap, concentrations of BFRs, NFRs, and PCBs were measured in outdoor air at 8 sites located within the metropolitan area of Lagos, Nigeria. Concentrations of ∑₈BDEs, ∑HBCDD, ∑₇NFRs and ∑₈PCBs were: 21-750 (median = 100) pg/m³, <12-180 (median = < 12) pg/m³, 34-900 (median = 300) pg/m³ and 85-460 (median = 300) pg/m³, respectively. Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209, range: <16-620 pg/m³, median = 71 pg/m³) and DBDPE (range: <37-890 pg/m³, median = 280 pg/m³) were the dominant BFRs detected, while the non-Arochlor PCB 11 (range: 49-220 pg/m³, median = 100 pg/m³) was the dominant PCB. To the authors' knowledge, these are the first data on the non-Arochlor PCB 11 in outdoor air in Africa. In general, concentrations of all target contaminants in this study were within the range reported elsewhere in Africa and worldwide. Likely due to the tropical climate of Lagos, no seasonal variation in concentrations was discernible for any of the target contaminants. While concentrations of PBDEs and some NFRs were correlated with population density, concentrations of PCBs appear more impacted by leaks from electrical transformers and for PCB 11 to proximity to activities like textile factories that produce and use dyes.

Recycling plastics containing decabromodiphenyl ether into new consumer products including children's toys purchased in Japan and seventeen other countries

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants widely used to manufacture several commercial plastic products. The major homologue in commercial PBDE mixtures are listed in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants and are scheduled for global elimination. Hence, to understand more about unintentional contamination of plastic recycling stream by restricted PBDEs, we examined 540 small plastic consumer products (1139 components after dismantling), including children's toys, purchased in 18 countries (mainly Japan) between 2015 and 2019. Handheld X-ray fluorescence analysis revealed that 219 plastic components (19% of the total samples) contained bromine at a concentration of ≥30 mg kg^-1. Chemical analysis of these bromine-positive components revealed that 109 pieces (9.6% of the total), mainly those made of black-colored plastic, contained PBDEs at concentrations ranging between 35 and 10,000 mg kg^-1, with the maximum contribution from decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE). These PBDE concentrations were insufficient to impart flame retardancy, suggesting that the recycled plastic used to manufacture these consumer products probably originated from electronic waste, the manufacture of which was the primary use of commercial decaBDE mixtures. PBDEs were also found in secondary raw plastic materials and their final products obtained in India in 2019, demonstrating that plastics containing decaBDE end up in products where they serve no functional purpose. To contribute to the circular economy, the recycling of plastic waste in end-of-life products should be promoted. However, urgent action is needed to prevent plastic additives of concern, including PBDEs, from entering new products used in daily lives, particularly those used by children.

Recycling Plastics from WEEE: A Review of the Environmental and Human Health Challenges Associated with Brominated Flame Retardants

Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) presents the dual characteristic of containing both hazardous substances and valuable recoverable materials. Mainly found in WEEE plastics, brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a component of particular interest. Several actions have been taken worldwide to regulate their use and disposal, however, in countries where no regulation is in place, the recovery of highly valuable materials has promoted the development of informal treatment facilities, with serious consequences for the environment and the health of the workers and communities involved. Hence, in this review we examine a wide spectrum of aspects related to WEEE plastic management. A search of legislation and the literature was made to determine the current legal framework by region/country. Additionally, we focused on identifying the most relevant methods of existing industrial processes for determining BFRs and their challenges. BFR occurrence and substitution by novel BFRs (NBFRs) was reviewed. An emphasis was given to review the health and environmental impacts associated with BFR/NBFR presence in waste, consumer products, and WEEE recycling facilities. Knowledge and research gaps of this topic were highlighted. Finally, the discussion on current trends and proposals to attend to this relevant issue were outlined.

Ensuring the reliability of brominated flame retardant data on food and feed occurrence through harmonised analytical criteria and proficiency testing

The volume of occurrence data on food and animal feed contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDDs) is slowly increasing as more laboratories develop analytical capability. This data allows an evaluation of current background levels in different countries and regions and is also useful for estimating the health risk through dietary exposure and as evidence for the formulation of future control strategies. Existing data varies in the number of analytes reported and the quality measures applied. In order to ensure reliability and comparability, guidance on analytical criteria such as precision and trueness, limits of quantitation, recovery, positive identification, etc. is provided. These parameters are based on several years of collective experience and allow validation and regular quality control of analysis of individual PBDE congeners and HBCDD stereoisomers. The criteria-based approach also allows laboratories the flexibility to use different analytical methodologies and techniques for generating data. The effectiveness of this approach has been demonstrated by a successful proficiency testing scheme that has been used for a number of years and has attracted an increasing number of participants. The majority of participating laboratories (>80%) have been able to demonstrate performance within the 95% confidence interval (│z-score│≤ 2) and a further 10% of laboratories demonstrated performance with a z-score of (2 <│z-score│< 3). The combined support of these guidance criteria backed by successful proficiency testing will ensure the reliability and comparability of results, in particular, to refine risk assessments and to help the formulation of regulatory policy.

Concentrations of halogenated flame retardants and polychlorinated biphenyls in house dust from Lagos, Nigeria

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) are regulated under the Stockholm Convention of the United Nations' Environment Programme; with similar concerns emerging about alternative halogenated flame retardants (alt-HFRs), the use of which is increasing as replacements for PBDEs and HBCDD. While the presence in indoor dust of PCBs, PBDEs, and HBCDDs has been reported previously in a few African locations including Lagos, Nigeria, we are unaware of similar data for alt-HFRs. The present study thus aimed to provide the first information on alt-HFRs in indoor dust in sub-Saharan Africa, and to evaluate the impact of restrictions on the use of PBDEs, HBCDD, and PCBs on their concentrations in house dust in Lagos, Nigeria. Concentrations of ∑₈PBDEs, ∑HBCDDs, ∑₇alt-HFRs, and ∑₈PCBs in 15 samples of dust from homes in Lagos, Nigeria were found to be: 43-810 (median = 300) ng g^-1, <dl - 66 (median = <dl) ng g^-1, 32-2600 (median = 320) ng g^-1 and 3.8-61 (median = 18) ng g^-1 respectively. The dominant PBDE was BDE-209, its replacement decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) was the predominant alt-HFR, while PCB-138 displayed the highest concentration of the 8 PCBs targeted. Likely due to their higher vapour pressures, concentrations of the non-arochlor PCB 11, as well as those of PCB 28, and PBDE 28 were below detection limits. Concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs reported are generally below those reported previously for Lagos, Nigeria; suggesting restrictions on their manufacture and use have been effective. In contrast, while concentrations of BDE-209 in this study were lower than in one previous study in Lagos, they exceeded those in another; implying that the more recent restrictions on the deca-BDE product have yet to be fully effective. The evidence presented here of concentrations of alt-HFRs in Nigerian house dust provide a valuable benchmark against which future trends in their concentrations may be evaluated.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in raw milk from different animal species and in infant formula. Occurrence and risk assessment

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widespread, persistent in the environment, and classified as global pollutants. Their presence has been confirmed in various types of food which adversely affect human health when consumed in sufficient amounts. Although milk has advantageous nutritional qualities and there are health benefits associated with its consumption, it could also contain toxic PBDEs. The aim of the study was the determination of the concentrations of ten congeners (BDE -28, -47, -49, -99, -100, -138, -153, -154, -183, and 209) in cow's, sheep's, and goat's milk obtained from Polish farms and their determination in infant formula. A total of 103 samples of raw milk and infant formula were tested using an accredited high-resolution gas chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry method. PBDEs were detected in all analyzed samples, the highest concentration being found in sheep's milk (11.9 ng g^-1 fat), and cow's milk containing the least contamination. BDE-209 makes the predominant contribution to the sum of the ten congeners, constituting at least 38%. The profiles of PBDEs were dependent on the milk type and the differences between its varieties are discussed. The highest median concentration of the sum of ten PBDEs (0.473 ng g^-1 fat) was determined in infant formula, which was identified as an important source of infants' exposure (5.48 ng kg^-1 b.w. day^-1 calculated based on P95 concentration). Milk is a source of PBDE in the diet; however, considered in isolation its consumption does not pose a risk to either adults' or children's health.

A review of the success and challenges in characterizing human dermal exposure to flame retardants

Since organic flame retardants (FRs) have several industrial applications, they have been largely detected in environmental and biological samples, and humans have been highly exposed to them. Although the effects of oral and inhaled FRs have been well studied, dermal exposure to them has only recently been pointed out as a potential route of human exposure. Consequently, the effects of FRs on the skin and secondary target organs have been poorly investigated. This review article summarizes the main findings regarding dermal exposure to FRs, points the limitation of the published studies, and suggests future perspectives for better understanding of how dermal exposure to FRs impacts the human health. This review lists some gaps that must be filled in future studies, including characterization of the bioavailable fraction and assessment of exposure for new FRs, to establish their physiological significance and to improve the development of 3D dermal tissue for more reliable results to be obtained.

Enhanced in vitro toxicity of plastic leachates after UV irradiation

Plastics can release numerous chemicals and thereby, contribute to the chemical pollution in aquatic systems. To which extent environmental degradation processes influence the release of plastic chemicals, is currently unknown and subject of research. We therefore evaluated aqueous leachates of 12 differently formulated plastics (e.g., pre-production, post-industrial and recycled pellets as well as final products) using in vitro bioassays and chemical analysis via LC-HRMS nontarget approach. We weathered these plastics by UV irradiation (UV-C and UV-A/B) under laboratory conditions in dryness and a subsequent leaching period in ultrapure water ('atmospheric' weathering) or directly in water ('aquatic' weathering, UV-A/B_aq). A dark control (DC) without UV light served as a reference treatment. Some plastics triggered several toxicological endpoints (low-density polyethylene recyclate (LDPE-R), starch blend (SB), bio-based polybutylene succinate (Bio-PBS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), whereas others caused little to no effects (polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP) and LDPE). UV irradiation enhanced the plastics' toxicity, even for samples initially evaluated as toxicologically inconspicuous. The plastic samples caused oxidative stress (85%), baseline toxicity (42%), antiestrogenicity (40%) and antiandrogenicity (27%). Positive findings were measured after UV-C (63%) and UV-A/B_aq (50%) treatments, followed by UV-A/B (48%) and DC (33%). Overall, we detected between 42 (DC) and 2896 (UV-A/B_aq) chemical compounds. Our study demonstrates that differently formulated plastics leach toxic chemicals. UV exacerbates the plastics' toxicity by either generating active compounds and/or by facilitating their release. UV light even leads to the release of bioactive compounds from plastics of low chemical complexity. To prevent the exposure to plastic-associated chemicals, the application of chemicals could be reduced to a minimum, while on a regulatory level the evaluation of plastic eluates could be another focal point next to singular compounds.

Rare earth elements in plastics

Because of their unique properties, rare earth elements (REEs), comprising the lanthanide elements plus Sc and Y, have a variety of integral applications in modern electronic equipment. Consequently, it has been suggested that REEs may act as contaminants of and tracers for recycled electrical and electronic plastics in consumer goods. In this study, REEs have been determined in a range of consumer plastics of different polymeric makeup (n = 31), and purchased new and in societal circulation, by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry following acid digestion. Samples were also screened by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for Br and Sb as markers of brominated flame retardants and the retardant synergist, Sb₂O₃, respectively. One or more REE was detected in 24 samples, with four samples returning detectable concentrations of all REEs analysed and with total REE concentrations up to 8 mg kg^-1. REEs were most commonly observed in samples containing Br and Sb at levels insufficient to effect flame retardancy and, therefore, likely derived from recycled electronic plastic, but were not detectable in new electrical plastics. Various REEs were also present in plastics with no detectable Br and Sb, however, and where unregulated recycling is prohibited (e.g. food packaging). This observation, and correlations between pairs of REEs for all samples considered, suggests a more generic source of these elements in consumer plastics in addition to the recycling of electrical and electronic waste. REEs reported in the literature for beached marine plastics were characterised by similar concentrations and inter-element correlations, suggesting that REEs are ubiquitous and pervasive contaminants of both contemporary and historical consumer and environmental plastics.

Valorizing urban forestry waste through the manufacture of toys

Urban forestry generates a huge amount of waste worldwide, resulting from the processes of pruning and suppression. Disposal in landfills reduces the useful life of these facilities and forgoes the possibility of generating income from the waste. This study investigated the manufacture of toys as a strategy to valorize urban forestry waste. For this, physical-mechanical, chemical (extractive), color and shape characterizations were performed for three species of urban trees commonly planted in Brazil, a region of Neotropical forests. Toy prototypes were developed and manufactured from wood waste. Regarding color, all studied species showed high value of the variable b*, which refers to the blue-yellow axis. Handroanthus heptaphyllus wood had the highest values of basic density (0.706 g.cm^-3) and Janka hardness (1142, 1027 and 1669 kgf.cm^-2 for radial, tangential and transverse directions, respectively), and had the lowest volumetric shrinkage (11.38%). The lowest content of total extractives was measured in Handroanthus heptaphyllus, 6.33%, and the greatest content was found in Spathodea campanulata, 7.01%. The average value suggested for the toy prototypes varied between $ 3.70 and $ 13.58. The urban pruning wastes of the species studied have physical, chemical and mechanical attributes suitable for the manufacture of toys. This use has strong potential for environmental, economic and social sustainability and the toys are pedagogically accepted by adults and children.

Update of the risk assessment of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDDs) in food

The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDDs) in food. HBCDDs, predominantly mixtures of the stereoisomers α-, β- and γ-HBCDD, were widely used additive flame retardants. Concern has been raised because of the occurrence of HBCDDs in the environment, food and in humans. Main targets for toxicity are neurodevelopment, the liver, thyroid hormone homeostasis and the reproductive and immune systems. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the neurodevelopmental effects on behaviour in mice can be considered the critical effects. Based on effects on spontaneous behaviour in mice, the Panel identified a lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of 0.9 mg/kg body weight (bw) as the Reference Point, corresponding to a body burden of 0.75 mg/kg bw. The chronic intake that would lead to the same body burden in humans was calculated to be 2.35 μg/kg bw per day. The derivation of a health-based guidance value (HBGV) was not considered appropriate. Instead, the margin of exposure (MOE) approach was applied to assess possible health concerns. Over 6,000 analytical results for HBCDDs in food were used to estimate the exposure across dietary surveys and age groups of the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary LB exposure to HBCDDs were fish meat, eggs, livestock meat and poultry. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the resulting MOE values support the conclusion that current dietary exposure to HBCDDs across European countries does not raise a health concern. An exception is breastfed infants with high milk consumption, for which the lowest MOE values may raise a health concern.

Development and validation of a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method for simultaneous analysis of triazine-based brominated flame retardants in environmental samples

In the present study, a novel and reliable analytical method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of 1,3,5-tris(2,3-dibromopropyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione (TDBP-TAZTO) and 2,4,6-tris(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (TTBP-TAZ) in environmental samples using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a tandem mass spectrometer. Firstly, for optimization of the liquid chromatography separation, mobile phases, oven temperatures, modifiers, and buffers were varied. Afterwards, the extraction efficiency of sediment and fish samples was tested with different techniques (pressurized liquid, solid-liquid, ultrasound-assisted, and Soxhlet extraction). Additionally, cleanup using modified multilayer silica gel (sediment) and gel permeation chromatography as well as Florisil® columns (fish) with several solvent mixtures were performed. The best results were obtained with the pressurized liquid extraction (optimal conditions: extraction solvent 100% toluene, extraction time 20 min, cycles two, extraction temperature 100 °C, and flushing volume 60%) compared to other solvent extraction methods. On the basis of this optimized analytical procedure, the method was validated with satisfactory values of correlation coefficient (R²) between 0.998 and 0.999 for both matrices in the calibration range of 2.0-502.0 μg kg^-1 for TDBP-TAZTO and 16.6-770.6 μg kg^-1 for TTBP-TAZ in sediment samples as well as 4.8-303.5 μg kg^-1 and 47.4-742.5 μg kg^-1 in fish samples (bream), respectively. Mean recoveries (n = 5) were calculated for both analytes with spiked matrices at one concentration level (100 μg kg^-1) between 98 and 114% with intra-day relative standard deviations less than 11%. The inter-day precision (n = 15) was also acceptable for both compounds < 11%. It was found that the limit of detection and limit of quantification were in the range of 0.4-1.3 μg kg^-1 for TDBP-TAZTO and 10-28 μg kg^-1 for TTBP-TAZ in surface sediment samples and 7-25 μg kg^-1 and 22-80 μg kg^-1 in fish samples (bream), respectively. The results indicated that these analytical methods could provide reliable and efficient approaches for quantification of TDBP-TAZTO and TTBP-TAZ in sediment and fish samples. Graphical abstract.

Ecotoxicity of Plastics from Informal Waste Electric and Electronic Treatment and Recycling

Plastic materials account for about 20% of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The recycling of this plastic fraction is a complex issue, heavily conditioned by the content of harmful additives, such as brominated flame retardants. Thus, the management and reprocessing of WEEE plastics pose environmental and human health concerns, mainly in developing countries, where informal recycling and disposal are practiced. The objective of this study was twofold. Firstly, it aimed to investigate some of the available options described in the literature for the re-use of WEEE plastic scraps in construction materials, a promising recycling route in the developing countries. Moreover, it presents an evaluation of the impact of these available end-of-life scenarios on the environment by means of the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. In order to consider worker health and human and ecological risks, the LCA analysis focuses on ecotoxicity more than on climate change. The LCA evaluation confirmed that the plastic re-use in the construction sector has a lower toxicity impact on the environment and human health than common landfilling and incineration practices. It also shows that the unregulated handling and dismantling activities, as well as the re-use practices, contribute significantly to the impact of WEEE plastic treatments.