Dioxins in the Environment

This book summarizes the proceedings of the international symposium and workshop held at Michigan State University in December 1983. Dioxins - the polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) - consist of a family of over 100 isomers. In chemical structure, the PCDDs are closely related to the polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). These compounds are toxic to different degrees in biological and mammalian systems. These contaminants are found in hazardous waste landfills, in soils, in debris, in the residue from incineration of municipal and industrial wastes; and in commercial products used as pesticides, herbicides, and wood preservatives.