What chemical substances are associated with environmental concerns and found in electrical equipment?

Polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly known as PCBs, are chemical substances that have raised significant environmental and health concerns and are often found in electrical equipment. Historically, PCBs were widely used in electrical transformers, capacitors, and other electrical appliances due to their excellent insulating properties and thermal stability. However, PCBs are toxic, persistent in the environment, and can accumulate in the food chain, leading to contamination of soil, water, and living organisms.

The use of PCBs was banned in many countries due to their environmental impact and potential health risks, including cancer and other serious health effects upon exposure. Their association with electrical equipment highlights the need for proper handling and disposal methods to mitigate environmental threats.

While substances like heavy metals, phthalates, and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), are also discussed in the context of environmental concerns, PCBs specifically have a strong historical and current relevance regarding their use in electrical applications and the subsequent environmental issues tied to them. This context makes PCBs the most fitting answer to the question regarding chemical substances found in electrical equipment that raise environmental concerns.