Detection of high PBDD/Fs levels and dioxin-like activity in toys using a combination of GC-HRMS, rat-based and human-based DR CALUX® reporter gene assays

PAH and POP Presence in Plastic Waste and Recyclates: State of the Art

“…Li et al [36] used a C10 solid phase extraction (SPE) column for eluting PAHs with 5 mL of n-hexane:DCM at a ratio of 4:1 (v/v). Other authors [41,44] used an alumina and/or silica column for isolating PAHs or POPs. A Florisil column can also be used for that purpose, according to DiGangi et al [45].…”

“…Budin et al [44] High levels of PBDD/Fs in plastic parts of some toys Chen et al studied the marine microplastics bound dioxin-like chemicals [48]. They found that polymers such as styrofoam present a greater ability to adsorb POPs, compared to PE and polypropylene (PP).…”

“…Budin et al [44] studied the presence of brominated dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs) in the plastic parts of some toys available on the market, determining high levels of PBDD/Fs and related TEQ levels, concluding that the sampled toys were most likely made with recycled plastics containing flame retardants. A recent study performed laboratory analysis of 95 Rubik s cubes and 16 additional samples from 26 countries in various regions, and found that 90% of the samples contained octabromodiphenyl ether (OctaBDE) in concentrations ranging from 1 to 1174 ppm [55].…”

“…PBDD/Fs have been recently detected in black plastic parts from toys [44,56]. Brominated congeners of dioxins and furans are known to have hazardous properties and are present as contaminants in commercial PBDEs (in low concentrations, but enough to be of concern) [27].…”

“…Leslie et al [53] pointed out the importance of the presence of BFRs in plastic materials destined for recycling markets. These POPs have been found in various plastic materials, including items used for the automotive and electronic industries [53], children's toys [44,55,56] and personal care products [69].…”