Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in marine sediments from industrialized bays of Korea

Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were determined in coastal sediments from heavily industrialized areas and major harbors in Korea. ∑PBDE20 concentrations in sediments ranged from 2.03 to 2253 ng/g dry weight. PBDE concentrations were higher at estuarine and inner bay locations close to industrial complexes and large harbors, indicating that the PBDE contamination in the sediments is due to local discharges from industrial complexes. Deca-BDE was the predominant congener and the concentrations were comparable to or higher than those reported from other countries. Non-parametric multidimensional scaling (MDS) ordination showed that deca-BDE technical mixture is the main source of PBDE contamination in Korean coastal waters, with minor contamination by octa-BDE product. This result is consistent with the consumption pattern of brominated flame-retardants (BFRs) in Korea. Significant correlations existed among BDEs 28, 47, 99, 100, 153, and 154; however, BDEs 183 and 209 showed little correlation with less highly brominated congeners.