Semi-quantitative characterisation of bromo-chloro alkanes and alkenes in the Australian environment

Bromo-/chloro paraffins (BCPs) and olefins (BCOs) are two groups of n-alkanes or alkenes containing chlorine and bromine. In this study, a semi-quantification method based on high-resolution mass spectrometry has been developed in the absence of standards of BCPs and BCOs. The estimated concentrations of BCPs and BCOs were approximately 20% of the concentrations of chlorinated paraffins (CPs). Significant correlations were found among the concentrations of CPs, BCPs and BCOs in all the matrices, indicating that these chemicals might have similar sources. Among all the congener groups, analytes containing a combination of max 7 halogen atoms had the highest concentrations. Our results suggested that BCPs and BCOs were complex groups of chemicals that were potentially persistent in the environment and covered properties that might lead to bioaccumulation.

Dr. Chang He is a postdoctoral research fellow in QAEHS. Chang completed his PhD on investigation into the sources, fate and exposure to organophosphate esters in Australian environment with Prof Jochen Mueller. His key interests at QAEHS are on the relationships between the environment and humans for a range of organic pollutants, including flame retardants, plasticizers, paraffins, etc.