Why Do We Worry About Brominated Flame Retardants?

Brominated flame-retardants (BFRs) are chemicals containing bromine which are added to materials such as plastics and textiles to make them less flammable. Over 30 compounds are in use although only a few of these are used in large amounts. The most common BFRs (both current and historic) are tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) and polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs).  The various BFRs vary widely in their chemical structure, uses and toxic properties. 

The use of flame retardants has grown dramatically over the past 30 years in response to concerns about the increasing use of flammable plastics and textiles in homes and offices. EU and British legislation now require that many textiles and certain other materials meet stringent fire safety standards. These standards can often only be met by the incorporation of flame retardants. In 2001, BFRs accounted for approximately 32% of the total use of flame retardants of all types.

BFRs are now used in almost all types of electrical and electronic products typically found in homes, offices and motor vehicles. They are used in the plastic casing of equipment such as TVs and computers and in components such as plastic circuit boards and insulating materials. They are also widely used in textiles, furniture and polyurethane foams for other uses.