Unintentionally produced polychlorinated biphenyls in pigments: An updated review on their formation, emission sources, contamination status, and toxic effects

The formation, emission, environmental occurrence, and potential adverse effects of unintentionally produced polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in pigments are reviewed, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date picture on these pollutants. PCBs are typically formed during manufacturing of organic pigments that involve chlorinated intermediates and reaction solvents, rather than those of inorganic pigments. Concentrations and profiles of PCBs vary greatly among pigment types and producers, with total PCB levels ranging from lower than detection limits to several hundred ppm; major components can be low-chlorinated (e.g., CB-11) or high-chlorinated congeners (e.g., CB-209). Pigment-derived PCBs can be released into the environment through different steps including pigment production, application, and disposal. They can contaminate atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic ecosystems, and then affect organisms living there. This situation garners scientific and public attention to nonlegacy emissions of PCBs and suggests the need for appropriatemonitoring, management, and abatement strategies regarding these pollutants. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the formation, emission, environmental occurrence, and potential adverse effects of unintentionally produced polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in pigments. PCBs are typically formed during the manufacturing of organic pigments and can contaminate atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic ecosystems, affecting organisms living in these environments. The variability in PCB concentrations and profiles among pigment types and producers highlights the importance of appropriate monitoring, management, and abatement strategies for these pollutants.