Brominated organic compounds in leachate across China: Occurrence and molecular variations

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Organic Geochemistry
• Pollution Science

Background:

• China is the largest global producer and consumer of brominated flame retardants (BFRs).
• Leachate from landfills and incineration sites is a significant source of BFR contamination.
• The molecular characteristics of brominated organic compounds (BOCs) in Chinese leachate are largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the occurrence and molecular diversity of BOCs in leachate across China.
• To understand the variations in BOCs between landfill and incineration leachate.
• To provide data for risk assessment and pollution control of BOCs.

Main Methods:

• Collection of leachate samples from 87 sites nationwide.
• Analysis using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS).
• Application of a neutral model for data interpretation.

Main Results:

• 347 distinct brominated organic molecules (BOMs) were detected.
• Monobrominated compounds comprised 86.5% of detected BOMs.
• Identified BOMs were predominantly aliphatic, polyphenolic, and aromatic, with limited biodegradability.

Conclusions:

• Leachate nationwide contains a diverse range of BOCs, primarily monobrominated.
• BOC molecular composition differs between landfill and incineration leachate.
• This study offers crucial insights into BOC pollution in Chinese leachate.