Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in house dust in Beijing, China

Eleven house dust samples were collected in Beijing to quantify 42 different polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Total PBDEs concentrations ranged from 140 to 1,300 ng g(-1). The dominant PBDEs congener identified was BDE 209, which made up more than 70% of all PBDEs congeners. Concentrations of PBDEs in Chinese house dust were lower than in other countries. The most polluted areas were electronics shops and households. It is likely that PBDEs exposure is a potential threat for Beijing residents, particularly toddlers.