Decabromodiphenyl ether (DecaBDE)

Decabromodiphenyl ether (deca-BDE) is a flame retardant used primarily in plastics, textiles, and transportation. Deca-BDE is recognized as a persistent environmental pollutant with potential hazardous effects. The material can bioaccumulate in the ecosystem and ultimately pose a risk to humans. Deca-BDE has many adverse health effects on humans, including the disruption of hormones, the damaging of the nervous system, and the alteration of sperm and genitals. Deca-BDE may also debrominate into more toxic, lower-brominated PBDEs, which are more readily absorbed by organisms.

Environmentally, deca-BDE has been found in sediment, soil, and dust, particularly near manufacturing and electronic waste recycling areas. Humans often acquire the substance through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal exposure. Its bioaccumulation and persistence raise concerns about long-term ecological and human health impacts. Due to these concerns, deca-BDE is regulated under international agreements such as the Stockholm Convention.

The Stockholm Convention has proposed several economically viable alternatives for the different uses of deca-BDE. The phase-out of deca-BDE in daily use has been mostly successful; however, the material is still widely used in industries such as aviation, and the waste of which still poses a risk to humans.

Citations:

https://www.ciel.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/HR_DecaBDE.pdf

https://chm.pops.int/Implementation/Alternatives/AlternativestoPOPs/ChemicalslistedinAnnexA/cdecaBDE/tabid/5985/Default.aspx https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.7b00559