An Introduction to Polychlorinated Biphenyls

Structure and nomenclature of Poly-chlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) congeners.

J. Chiarenzelli, Department of Geology, State University of New York, Potsdam, New York13676. Chiarejr@potsdam.edu and 315-267-3401.

Geology and Human HealthChico Hot Springs, MontanaMay 12 –16, 2004

Left. Extraction of PCBs from sediment sample utilizing steam distillation. Steam extraction minimizes solvent usage.Center. Photograph of a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (courtesy of Mike Milligan, SUNY Fredonia).Right. Diagram showing the range in solubility of PCB congeners with chlorination.

Congener-specific gas chromatogram trace of Aroclor 1248courtesy of James Pagano, SUNY Potsdam).

New York State Department of Health’s annual sport fish consumption advisory; pink locations based on PCBs..

Cartoon displaying poleward transport of POPs.