Determination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in Fish Using GC-MS

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are bioaccumulating organic pollutants found throughout the environment. They are base neutral compounds formed by the chlorination of biphenyl with 209 different congeners. As they are such persistent contaminants, they have many adverse affects and lead to potential health risks. This study aimed to determine PCB concentrations found in aquatic environments, specifically game fish species. Through Soxhlet extraction followed by GC/MS analysis, PCB levels were determined in hopes of comparing with EPA advisory limits. Unfortunately, due to instrumental failure prior to quality control testing, no concrete conclusions were able to be drawn