Green and simple analysis of brominated and organophosphate flame retardants in Fish Samples Using QuEChERS Extraction and GC-MS

The persistence of PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) and the increasing risk of OPFRs (Organophosphate Flame Retardants) to aquatic ecosystems and human health require detailed studies on their prevalence in fish, an essential component of the food web. The present work describes the development of a QuEChERS extraction method followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for the extraction and analysis of PBDEs and OPRFRs in fish samples. Several parameters of the extraction process were evaluated with the aim of enhancing recovery and minimizing interferences, and, thereby, a simple and efficient protocol is given. The validation results showed efficient recoveries and reproducibility. This work focuses on the development and application of QuEChERS-GC-MS as an easy method with environmentally friendly aspect for the analysis of PBDEs and OPFRs in fish.