Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are man-made chemicals composed of two connected benzene rings with chlorine atoms attached. They were widely used in electrical equipment, insulating materials, and various industrial applications due to their chemical stability and insulating properties. However, PCBs are toxic and persist in the environment, contaminating soil, water, and living organisms. They can accumulate in the food chain and pose health risks like cancer, immune system damage, and neurological effects in humans. Because of these dangers, their production was banned in many countries in the late 20th century, though existing materials still require careful handling and disposal.