Determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in marine biological tissues using microwave-assisted extraction

Growing concern on the environmental impact of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) has created the need for rapid and quality assured analytical methods to quantify PBDEs in a spectrum of matrix types. This study presents the first validated method for the quantification of major PBDE congeners (47, 99 and 100) in marine biological tissues using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). The recovery of polychlorinated biphenyls and various organochlorine pesticides has also been ascertained. Analytical accuracy, precision, limits of detection and cleanup efficiency were evaluated for PBDE congeners, and empirical data justifies the use of MAE for the extraction and analysis of PBDEs in biological matrices. MAE was also compared to Soxhlet extraction efficiency for PBDEs in the standard reference materials SRM2978 and SRM1588a and gave comparable results (<15% variation).