Measuring device PM4-2 for dust samples
The PM4-2 dust sampling system measures PCBs. It is often used for measurement with dust sampling.
There are various guideline values for PCB and PCP that can be sampled with the PM4-2 dust sampling system.
A distinction is made between guideline values that require immediate action and a longer-term tolerable intake level. If a value of 0.1µg/m3 PCP/PCB is detected during a measurement, this indicates an acute hazard that must be eliminated immediately. This can be done, for example, through remediation work; it is essential to protect yourself (for more information, see Protective measures at the workplace). Our PM4-2 dust sampling system is suitable for measurement because it was designed for sampling indoors. Please contact us for individual advice.
Definition of PCB and PCP
PCBs, i.e. polychlorinated biphenyls, are biphenyl compounds (benzene rings linked by a single bond) that have a variable amount of chlorine substituents bound to them. The chlorine replaces the hydrogen atom of the benzene ring. The general molecular formula is therefore C12H10-xClx. These are yellowish, almost odorless liquids that are very thermally and chemically stable. Decomposition takes place primarily anaerobically, which means that they are highly resistant in nature. Polychlorinated biphenyls belong to the product group that was banned worldwide by the Stockholm Convention of May 22, 2001.
PCP
PCP – pentachlorophenol is an aromatized hydrocarbon. It is a phenol compound in which all 5 aromatized hydrogen atoms have been substituted by chlorine atoms. The compound is highly soluble in water but, like PCBs, has low biodegradability. Production was suspended in Germany in 1986 and has been banned since 1989 on the basis of the Chemicals Act. Since then, the production, placing on the market and use of PCP and products containing more than 5 mg/kg of PCP has been prohibited.
PCB occurrence
PCBs were first produced industrially in 1929 and used as coolants and insulators due to their chemical properties (e.g. superhydrophobic, flame retardant). They were also used as hydraulic fluids or as fire retardants in adhesives and paints. They were also frequently used in the construction sector, for example in joint sealants, wall paints and the like. They have been banned in Germany since 1989 and are no longer used. However, the ban has not solved the problem, as PCBs are very persistent and remain in the environment for a long time due to their poor biodegradability.
Pentachlorophenol was used as a wood preservative due to its fungicidal (fungi and spores are killed) properties, which is why it can also be found indoors.
PCB and PCB hazard
The problem with PCBs is not the direct danger, but the chronic toxicity that can be found even at very low levels. A typical effect is the so-called “chloracne”, a skin change that resembles acne and occurs primarily on the face or at the affected contact points. It also causes hyperpigmentation, hair loss, liver damage and is suspected to have hormonal effects.
PCP is also a health hazard as it is carcinogenic and can cause fatigue, concentration problems, restlessness and other symptoms with long-term exposure. It is also suspected of being mutagenic.
Both PCBs and PCP belong to the so-called “dirty dozen”, which describes a group of toxic substances that were banned worldwide by the Stockholm Convention of May 22, 2001.
How is it measured?
If there is a suspicion of PCB and/or PCP contamination, a measurement concept is developed. In order to be able to provide a health assessment, it makes sense to take several measurements. On the one hand, the exposure is temperature-dependent; as the room temperature rises, more PCB (and/or PCP) is released. In order to obtain a meaningful annual value, measurements should be taken in summer and winter. Other factors also play a role in the measurement. Consideration should be given to the general indoor climate:
- Is there regular ventilation?
- How often is the room cleaned?
Sources:
[1]: http://www.chemie.de/lexikon/Polychlorierte_Biphenyle.html
[2]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/daten/chemikalien/dioxine-polychlorierte-biphenyle-pcb-in-der-umwelt#textpart-1
[3]: http://www.enius.de/schadstoffe/pcb.html
[4]: http://www.innenraumluft.nrw.de/4_schadstoffe/pcb.php
[5]: http://www.chemie.de/lexikon/Pentachlorphenol.html
[6]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/medien/pdfs/pcp_1997.pdf
[7]: https://recht.nrw.de/lmi/owa/br_bes_text?anw_nr=1&gld_nr=2&ugl_nr=23239&bes_id=2571&val=2571&ver=7&sg=2&aufgehoben=N&menu=0
[8]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/medien/pdfs/PCB.pdf
[9]: http://www.innenraumluft.nrw.de/4_schadstoffe/pcp_holzschutzmittel.php
[10]: http://www.chemie.de/lexikon/Dreckiges_Dutzend.html
[11]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/themen/chemikalien/chemikalien-management/stockholm-konvention