Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

CAS ID#: 67774-32-7, 1163-19-5

Affected Organ Systems: Developmental (effects while organs are developing), Endocrine (Glands and Hormones), Hepatic (Liver), Immunological (Immune System), Reproductive (Producing Children)

Cancer Classification:  Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Dioxins, Furans, PCBs (contain phenyl rings of carbon atoms)

Summary: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame-retardant chemicals that are added to plastics and foam products to make them difficult to burn. There are different kinds of PBDEs; soµme have only a few bromine atoms attached, while some have as many as ten broµmine attached to the central molecule. PBDEs exist as mixtures of similar chemicals called congeners. Because they are mixed into plastics and foams rather than bound to them, PBDEs can leave the products that contain them and enter the environment.

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Page last reviewed: February 10, 2021
Content source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry