Boer, M.K. de (1996) Flame retardants: polybrominated biphenyl and diphenylether. Master's Thesis / Essay, Biology.
|
Text
Biol_Drs_1996_MKdeBoer.CV.pdf - Published Version Download (2MB) | Preview |
Abstract
In this essay studies on two classes of brominated polyaromatic flame retardants are reviewed. Theoretically, 209 different congeners of both PBBs and PBDEs are possible. These congeners have specific chemical and physical properties, which lead to different biological and toxicological effects. Most studies have been based on commercial mixtures of brominated flame retardants, which complicates the pursuit of unambiguous data and insights. Only adequate quantification of individual congeners will allow comparative environmental and toxicological studies. Progress in this field depends upon the availability of pure synthesized congeners for use as standards. The present environmental levels of brominated flame retardants do not pose an immediate, major environmental risk. However, most of the PBB and PBDE congeners found in commercial flame retardants are persistent, lipophilic and bioaccumulating, which represents a definite potential threat to both human and environmental life. Therefore, prolonged commercial use of brominated flame retardants should be avoided. These compounds need to be replaced by alternative flame retardants, provided these alternatives are proven to be less harmful.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master's Thesis / Essay) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Biology |
| Thesis type: | Master's Thesis / Essay |
| Language: | English |
| Date Deposited: | 15 Feb 2018 07:45 |
| Last Modified: | 15 Feb 2018 07:45 |
| URI: | https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/9660 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |