Evaluation of a QuEChERS-like extraction approach for the determination of PBDEs in mussels by immuno-assay-based screening methods

A sample preparation method was evaluated for the determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in mussel samples, by using colorimetric and electrochemical immunoassay-based screening methods. Herein, a rapid procedure based on QuEChERS-like extraction approach followed by solid phase purification was optimized for PBDE extraction from mussel samples. The detection limits for both the immunoassays, calculated as BDE-47 equivalent concentration, were 0.6 ng g-1 and 1.1 ng g-1, respectively. Real mussel samples, including a Certified Reference Material (CRM), were analyzed. The samples were investigated by colorimetric and electrochemical immunoassays as well as by GC-MS. In comparison to GC-MS results, 106 and 102 % relative accuracy were obtained for the colorimetric and electrochemical immunoassays, respectively. The proposed method could be useful for massive environmental campaigns, being able to rapidly detect possible polluted seafood samples.