Polybromerade

Polybromerade, commonly referred to in English as polybrominated, describes chemical compounds in which multiple bromine atoms are attached to an organic framework. The term is frequently used in the context of flame-retardant additives that were widely used to reduce the flammability of plastics, electronics, textiles, and construction materials from the late 20th century onward. These compounds are typically incorporated as additives rather than being covalently bonded to the host material.

Chemical characteristics and classes: The bromine atoms enable flame-retardant action by interfering with radical reactions in the flame or by promoting char formation. Polybrominated congeners vary in the number and pattern of bromine substitutions, creating families such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and related substances. The environmental behavior and toxicological profiles of these congeners differ accordingly.

Environmental fate and exposure: Many polybrominated compounds are persistent and lipophilic, meaning they resist degradation and can accumulate in living organisms. They can be transported long distances through air and water and have been detected in soils, sediments, wildlife, and human tissues. Human exposure arises mainly from ingestion of dust from consumer products and, to a lesser extent, diet.

Health and regulation: Concerns about persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential health effects—particularly neurodevelopmental and endocrine-disrupting effects—have led to regulatory actions in many regions. Some polybrominated flame retardants have been phased out, restricted, or substituted with alternative additives. International frameworks, such as the Stockholm Convention, address certain brominated pollutants as persistent organic pollutants.

See also: PBDEs, PBBs, flame retardants, persistent organic pollutants.