Monitoring of PCBs in Transformer Oils in Indonesia and Policy Implications for Hazardous Waste Management

Lidia Handayani; L Febrina; M. Alif

Authors

Lidia Handayani Universitas Sahid Author
L Febrina Universitas Sahid Author
M. Alif Universitas Sahid Author

Keywords:

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), transformer oil, GC-ECD, Utility sector, hazardous waste

Abstract

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are toxic, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that have been historically used in electrical equipment, such as transformers. Despite global bans, residual PCBs remain a concern due to legacy equipment found in developing countries. This study proposes to evaluate the presence of PCBs in six transformer oil samples. Samples of PCBs in six transformer oils were collected from transformers operated by Indonesia’s state-owned electricity company (PLN). The analysis was conducted using Gas Chromatography–Electron Capture Detection (GC-ECD) following US EPA Method 8082A. The results confirm that Aroclor 1254 is the predominant PCB congener, with concentrations varying from non-detectable levels to 20.35 ppm. According to Government Regulation No. 101/2014, two samples fall within the "not clearly defined" category (5–50 ppm), which requires monitoring, while the other four samples are classified as non-PCB oils (less than 5 ppm). None of the samples exceeded the 50-ppm threshold for hazardous waste; however, the mid-range contamination levels indicate environmental risks and regulatory gaps.

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