Substances of very high concern in end-of-life articles: A review of occurrence and analytical approaches

The disposal of end-of-life polymeric articles is a major driver of widespread environmental contamination due to the prevalence of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) that can easily migrate to the environment. This review focuses specifically on four major groups of contaminants: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), halogenated Flame Retardants (FRs), Phthalates, and Chlorinated Paraffins (CPs), characterized by their toxicity, bioaccumulation and persistent properties. This study provides an overview of these additives uses, properties and an update on their regulatory status, particularly important in the adaptation of recycling strategies. A comprehensive assessment of their occurrence within various waste streams is discussed, emphasizing detection rates and market trends. Finally, an in-depth summary of the sample preparation (cryo-grinding, solid-liquid extraction and analytes purification) and a variety of instrumental techniques (generally chromatography hyphenated to mass spectrometry) for SVHC target-analysis is detailed. This includes guidance on optimizing parameters such as solvent selection, purification and/or detection methodologies. Ultimately, this review underscores that systematic monitoring of SVHC is crucial to prevent the unintentional presence of hazardous substances in new consumer goods and to support a safe circular economy.