Toxic substances list: polychlorinated dibenzofurans

Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (furans) are highly persistent compounds with a strong affinity for sediments and a high potential for accumulating in biological tissues. They have been found in all compartments of the ecosystem, including: air, water, soil, sediments, animals and foods. Dioxins and furans enter the environment as complex mixtures from four major sources: commercial chemicals (eg. pentachlorophenol); incineration; pulp and paper mills that use chlorine bleaching; and both accidental fires and spills involving polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs, which contain principally furan contaminants).

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There is more than one CAS number that applies to this group of substances.

Source(s)

This substance is entering the environment from the following source(s):

Contact

Substances Management Information Line
Chemicals Management Plan
Gatineau, QC K1A 0H3
Telephone: 1-800-567-1999 (in Canada) or 819-938-3232
Fax: 819-938-3231
E-mail: substances@ec.gc.ca

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