General facts on

PCB

What is PCB?PCB = Poly Chlorinated Biphenyls

consist of two benzene rings tied up with each other by a simple connection

up to ten hydrogen atoms are replaced by chlorine atoms

Characteristics of PCB

solid or liquid forms colour- and odourless flame resistant not readily water-soluble readily fat-soluble available in steady, glutinous or liquid

variants resistant against oxidation not corrodible

Applications as…

…a hydraulic liquid in pumping stations and engines

…an insulator in capacitors, e.g. washing machines, neon tubes, dishwashers, etc.

…a component of antifouling paints, for window painting

…an additional in nail polish …a plasticizer in sealant materials (PVC,

polyethylene, rubber)

… in window frames

… in tile joints

Discovery of PCB-like substances

1865

1966

Scientists: “PCB

damages environment

”

History

1881

PCB synthesized for the first

time

Commercial production

1927

1933

Firsthealth

problems

Study: PCB and liver disease

1937

Today

“Dirty

Dozen“

14000 Japanese intoxicate

d

1968

1973

PCB banned in open sources

Germany stops PCB- production

1983

1989

Interdiction of PCB-use

in Germany

Worldwide interdiction of

PCB

2001

Production of PCB

Estimated total global production: 1,5 million tons

USA:600.000 tons Europe: 450.000 tons

Effects on our health

The Nervous System The Immune System The Hormone System Organ damages

General facts on PCB

Thank you for listening andpaying attention!