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Applications of polychlorinated biphenyls
Mitchell D Erickson1, Robert G Kaley
1mderickson77@comcast.net
Environmental Science and Pollution Research International
|September 18, 2010
Summary
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were widely used in electrical applications, heat transfer, and as additives. This review clarifies documented versus undocumented historical uses of PCBs in the USA.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Industrial Chemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were manufactured for approximately 50 years due to their advantageous properties.
- This review focuses on documented PCB applications in the USA, acknowledging probable global similarities.
Observation:
- PCBs served as primary electrical insulating fluids in capacitors and transformers.
- They were also utilized as hydraulic, heat transfer, and lubricating fluids.
- PCBs were incorporated into products as plasticizers and fire retardants, including caulks, adhesives, plastics, and carbonless copy paper.
Findings:
- PCB manufacturing in the USA occurred from 1929 to mid-1977, with products persisting in use for decades.
- Primary documented uses included electrical applications and fluid systems.
- Distinguishing between documented commercial uses and undocumented or experimental applications remains challenging, particularly for smaller-volume or military uses.
Implications:
- Clarifying documented PCB uses is crucial for accurate environmental and health risk assessments.
- This review differentiates between confirmed commercial applications and potentially overstated or unverified historical uses of PCBs.
- Understanding historical PCB usage patterns informs ongoing remediation and regulatory efforts.
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