Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in dryer lint: an advanced analysis laboratory

Abstract

An advanced analytical chemistry laboratory experiment is described that involves environmental analysis and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Students analyze lint from clothes dryers for traces of flame retardant chemicals, polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), compounds receiving much attention recently. In a typical experiment, ng/g levels of three PBDE congeners (#47, #99, and #100) were found in the dryer lint through use of several mass spectral modes: negative chemical ionization–selected ion monitoring (MS–NCI–SIM) and tandem mass spectrometry with electron ionization and selected reaction monitoring (MS–EI–SRM). Students gain experience in Soxhlet extraction, mass spectrometry, and isotope dilution analysis as they explore their own local environments.

Publisher

American Chemical Society

Publication Date

1-1-2008

Publication Title

Journal of Chemical Education

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://dx.doi.org/10.1021/ed085p1419

Language

English

Format

text

Link to Full Text

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