Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers By: Dallas Baidy 1/9/2013

Chemical Classification  PBDE’s (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) are chemical compounds used as flame retardants.  PBDEs are commercially available as three products:  tetrabromodiphenyl ethers  pentabromodiphenyl ethers  hexabromodiphenyl ethers

Reason for Development  It is used as a flame retardant on many things.  Polyurethane foam (Found in furniture) is treated with PBDE.  Mattresses and electronics are also treated with Polybromated Diphenyl Ethers.

Prevalence & Means of Human Exposure  Prevalence  PBDE is prevalent in the air of homes because of it’s use in electronics.  It has also contaminated Rivers and lakes. Studies show Marine and Aviary life with PBDE’s inside their tissue, bloodstreams, and eggs.  PBDEs are known to have an exceptionally long life  Human Exposure  Humans are effected by PBDE’s via inhalation and ingestion.  PBDE’s are in many household items as well as sea food and dairy products.

Effects of Exposure  Not much is known about the effects that PBDEs have one humans.  Recently, it was discovered that exposure to PBDE effects the nervous and endocrine systems.  PBDEs have a doubling time of 5 years in the United States and the abundance of PBDEs is twice that of Europe, already contains twice the amount of Japan.

Effects on Wildlife  PBDEs have been known to effect animals in many ways. Things like thyroid hormone disruption, hearing impairment, behavioral changes, delayed puberty, decreased sperm count, and possibly cancer.  Fetuses and animals in the infant stage are more greatly effected by PBDEs

Regulations & MCL  In 2004, Two of the Three most common formulations of PBDE have been banned from use  California is the only state in the US to pass laws regulating PBDE’s in 2008  Japanese electronic companies are beginning to remove the use of PBDEs in their products

1. Buy electronics and furniture that is/are PBDE-free  Just buy things that were made after however, PBDEs are still put in some computer monitors and televisions. At least it’s an improvement. 2. Avoid crumbling and decaying foam  Old car seats, mattresses, carpet padding, and foam kids products. It may look fun, but don’t touch it. 3. Use High efficiency vacuum cleaners  They can get a wide range of harmful particles. Plus they clean better! 4. Replace things that have exposed foam  Or at least cover exposed spots. 5. Do not reupholster old foam furniture  Especially in places with kids and pregnant women. Just don’t. 6. Be careful when moving and removing old carpet  PBDEs are used in the padding. Cover the area around you with plastic and vacuum thoroughly when you’re finished. No witty comment here. 7. Buy products that are natural  Like Wool and cotton. There are also naturally flame retardant things. Save yourself the trouble and just avoid PBDEs entirely. Ways to Minimize Exposure It’s pretty easy actually.

PBDE in the Media There are a few Articles about PBDEs. Here is one written in The full thing can be found herehere

/13B7B331D0A4F284E56/1?accountid = /13B7B331D0A4F284E56/2?accountid = t/ pdf aa102603a.htm Sources You know, where all the information was taken from.