Spatial distributions and temporal trends in polybrominated diphenyl ethers in Detroit River suspended sediments

Suspended sediments from the Detroit River were collected using sediment traps at sites ranging from western Lake Erie to southern Lake St. Clair to assess spatial distributions and temporal trends of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The distribution of PBDEs in suspended sediments in the Detroit River appeared influenced by shoreline-based contemporary urban and industrial activities, which stood in contrast to PCBs that were associated with areas of historic industrial activity. Temporal trend data indicate that total PBDE concentrations decreased in the period after 2000 in response to cessation of production of the penta- and octa BDE formulations. Concentrations of total PBDEs ranged from roughly 7 ng g−1 (4 ng g−1 BDE 209) in southern Lake St. Clair to several hundred ng g−1 (60-180 ng g−1 BDE 209) in the lower reaches of the Detroit River. The widespread occurrence of PBDEs in Detroit River suspended sediments suggests that large urban areas can act as diffuse sources of these chemicals that are used in modern industrial applications and consumer products.

► PBDE spatial distribution associated with shoreline urban/industrial activity. ► PBDE concentrations decreased after 2000 concomitant with production and usage. ► Congener profiles shifted in response to cessation of use of penta- and octa-PBDEs.