An Alternatives Assessment for the Flame Retardant Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE)
Author:
US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
Date Published:
1/2014
Description:
This report provides detailed hazard information for 29 substances and mixtures that have been identified as potentially viable alternatives to decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) in a variety of polymers and applications. Chemicals were selected for evaluation based on their potential as substitutes to decaBDE, not because they are expected to be safer than decaBDE. The purpose of the report is to provide human health and ecological hazard information; a fully informed choice of alternatives will likely require consideration of other factors, such as cost and efficacy. Efficacy of the flame retardant alternatives was not tested. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed the report with input from a partnership of stakeholders from business, government, academia, and environmental organizations. This report:
1. Identifies potentially viable and non-viable flame retardant alternatives for decaBDE in a variety of applications and end-uses;
2. Provides a use, life-cycle, and exposure overview for decaBDE;
3. Supplies hazard profiles for decaBDE and 29 chemical alternatives; and
4. Presents a general discussion of factors relevant to substitution decisions.
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