Characterization of Losses of Chlorinated Pollutants during Lyophilization of Mussels

Abstract

The influence of the lyophilization process on the recovery of ten organochlorine compounds, (9 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pp′-DDE [1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene)] during the pretreatment step of mussels was studied at three concentration levels. Losses of more polar and water-soluble compounds were approximately 50% in samples pulverized prior to lyophilization. Two variables, moisture and lipid concentrations, had statistical influences in the losses of the lower chlorinated compounds (CB 31 and CB 28). In some PCB congeners (CB 52, CB 101, and CB 118), the variation of losses with the PCB concentrations was also statistically significant.

Keywords:

• Lipid content
• Lyophilization
• Moisture
• Mussel
• PCBs losses

Notes

*at 25°C.