| Name |
Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) |
| Type of Chemical |
Industrial Chemical |
| Where is it listed? |
Listed under Annex A |
| Use and Production |
HBCD is used a flame retardant additive, providing fire protection during the service life of vehicles, buildings or articles, as well as protection while stored. The main uses of HBCD globally are in expanded and extruded polystyrene foam insulation while the use in textile applications and electric and electronic appliances is smaller. The production of hexabromocyclododecane is a batch-process. Elemental bromine is added to cyclododecatriene at 20 to 70°C in the presence of a solvent in a closed system. |
| POPs Characteristics |
HBCD has a strong potential to bioaccumulate and biomagnify. It is persistent in the environment, and has a potential for long-range environmental transport. It is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Though information on the human toxicity of HBCD is to a great extent lacking, vulnerable groups could be at risk, particularly to the observed neuroendocrine and developmental toxicity of HBCD. |
| Replacement |
The production of HBCD has decreased in the last few years and there are already available on the market chemical alternatives to replace HBCD in high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) and textile back-coating. After any alternative becomes available in commercial quantities, it will take some time for the industry to seek qualification and re-certification of polystyrene bead and foam products for fire-rating. |
| Specific Exemptions /Acceptable Purposes |
Production:
As allowed by the parties listed in the Register of specific exemptions. |
Use:
Expanded polystyrene and extruded polystyrene in buildings in accordance with the provisions of part VII of Annex A |
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