Recent Methodologies for Brominated Flame Retardant Determinations by Means of Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

In this chapter, an overview of current analytical methods, including different sample preparation techniques as well as the different instrumental approaches, is presented. The strategy literature search for the preparation of this chapter was based on the recent analytical reviews published on brominated flame retardants (BFRs), with emphasis on hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBPA). Additionally, we have included all new articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, conference proceedings, or official reports found on the internet. The analytical procedures based on the use of liquid chromatography, used for the determination of some BFRs such as TBBPA, HBCD, as well as some metabolites and transformation products are presented. Analytical performances of the different approaches (ESI, APCI, and APPI as ionization modes) are reported and compared with those obtained by gas chromatographic techniques. Conclusions and future perspectives are outlined.

A one-step extraction/clean-up method for determination of PCBs, PBDEs and HBCDs in environmental solid matrices

“…10,11 While these alternative extraction techniques can provide extraction efficiencies similar to that of SE, they also provide several advantages including high sample throughput, automated control, optimised extraction temperature and pressure in addition to reducing solvent and time consumption. 12 Extracts produced by the abovementioned techniques usually require additional cleanup steps for removal of sulfur, lipids and interfering matrix-related compounds. This is commonly achieved via the one or more of the following techniques: gel permeation chromatography (GPC), copper powder, AgNO 3 -impregnated silica, sulfuric acid wash, orisil and acidimpregnated silica 11,13 prior to chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis.…”