POLICHLORINATED BIPHYNEYLS (PCBs) IN THE ENVIRONMENT: CURRENT INFORMATION ON PCBS EXTRACTION, PURIFICATION AND REMEDIATION TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic organic complexes having carbon,
hydrogen and chlorine atoms. They have been used in several manufacturing and industrial
applications due to their elevated boiling points, non-flammability, chemical durability, and insulating
properties. In addition, PCBs are very stable and predominate in the atmosphere for a longer period. As
a result, they may not only influence the specific organisms but eventually the whole environments.
This review defines the sources, fate, and route of transmission of PCBs in the atmosphere followed by
their accumulation in humans and animals. We deliver the explanation of recent understanding of
extraction and purification techniques for PCBs separation from many polluted places along with
suitable remedial approaches. Also, the diagnostic tasks and suggestions for upcoming research
relating to PCBs evaluation in the atmosphere are reviewed. Generally, this review describes the
widespread information on innovative techniques existing in the field of PCBs investigation.