Flame retardant contamination and ecological risk analysis in estuarine and marine sediments around an industrial port

Abstract

This study investigates the distribution, sources, and ecological risks of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and organophosphate esters (OPEs) in estuarine and marine sediments near an industrial port in Northern Taiwan. Sediment samples were collected from five estuaries and adjacent marine areas at varying depths. PBDE and OPE concentrations ranged from 0.612 to 41.9 ng g⁻¹ and 8.14–102 ng g⁻¹, respectively, with higher OPE levels attributed to their continued usage. BDE-209 and TCPP were the dominant congeners, contributing to 73.7 % and 40.3 % of total PBDE and OPE concentrations, respectively. The positive correlation between total organic carbon (TOC) and PBDEs highlights TOC's role in pollutant retention. Ecological risk assessments indicated low risk for most sites, though medium risks were identified for specific OPEs at certain locations. These findings emphasize the importance of monitoring flame retardants in sediment ecosystems to mitigate potential environmental impacts.