PBDE

PBDE stands for polybrominated diphenyl ethers, a class of brominated flame retardants used to inhibit ignition in a variety of consumer products, including electronics, textiles, upholstery foams, and plastics. Commercial PBDE formulations, such as penta-BDE, octa-BDE, and deca-BDE, comprise mixtures of dozens of congeners with differing degrees of bromination.

PBDEs are persistent in the environment and tend to bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans. They can be released from products during use, aging, or disposal, entering air, dust, soil, and water. Indoor dust is a common source of human exposure, particularly for children, and dietary intake also contributes.

Health considerations: Animal studies show possible neurodevelopmental effects, hormone disruption, and thyroid interference; human data show associations with neurodevelopmental and endocrine outcomes but are not definitive. Risk varies by congener, exposure route, and life stage.

Regulatory status: Due to environmental persistence and potential health concerns, many countries phased out or restricted use of penta- and octa-BDE formulations. Deca-BDE has faced regulatory scrutiny and restrictions in several jurisdictions. PBDEs are regulated under broader frameworks for persistent organic pollutants and flame retardants, and replacements with safer alternatives are being pursued.

Research: Ongoing monitoring of environmental levels, human biomonitoring, fate modeling, and evaluation of safer alternatives. Public guidance emphasizes reducing indoor dust exposure and proper disposal of PBDE-containing products.