Hexabromocyclododecane (C₁₂H₁₈Br₆) is a solid, white, odourless powder used primarily as a flame retardant additive for thermoplastic polymers. It is non-flammable and non-toxic, with a melting point of around 175°C. At temperatures above 230°C, it begins to break down.
HBCD is insoluble in water and some alcohols but dissolves in most organic solvents. Its molecular structure contains 12 carbon, 18 hydrogen, and 6 bromine atoms arranged in a ring. Due to its 16 possible stereoisomers with varying biological activity, HBCD presents challenges for manufacture and regulation.
The technical mixture typically contains three main diastereomers — alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) — along with trace amounts of others.
What is hexabromocyclododecane used for?
The main use of HBCD is in extruded (XPS) and expanded (EPS) polystyrene foams, where it provides flame retardancy for building insulation. Because HBCD is highly efficient, only small amounts are required to achieve the desired effect.
Other uses include:
Upholstered furniture and automobile interior textiles
Car cushions and insulation blocks in trucks
Packaging materials
Videocassette recorder housings
Electrical and electronic equipment
HBCD (hexabromocyclododecane) is primarily used as a flame retardant in upholstered furniture and automobile interior textiles to enhance fire resistance and safety.
In the Environment
HBCD is ubiquitous in the environment worldwide and has been detected in human blood, adipose tissue, and breast milk.
It can travel long distances, undergoing bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the food chain.
Found in birds, mammals, fish, aquatic organisms, soil, and sediments.
In 2008, the European Chemicals Agency listed HBCD as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under REACH due to its classification as Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT).
Since 2010, HBCD has also been included on the EPA’s List of Chemicals of Concern.
Sources and Routes of Exposure
Sources of Exposure
Consumers: Exposure from treated products (e.g., upholstery, insulation boards) is possible, though estimated to be very low risk for adults and children.
Environment: Indirect exposure may occur via food, drinking water, or air, but levels are generally low.
Toddlers: May have higher risk due to ingestion or inhalation of dust/soil from HBCD-containing household items. Risk from breast milk exposure is also considered low.
Workers: Greatest risk exists for those handling HBCD powders, granules, or treated materials. While the risk of acute effects (skin, eye, or respiratory irritation) is low, there is potential for chronic harmful effects under worst-case exposure scenarios.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation of contaminated air
Ingestion of contaminated food, water, or dust
Dermal contact with HBCD-containing products or powders
Health Risks
Inhalation: May cause irritation of the respiratory tract.
Ingestion: Can result in gastrointestinal irritation.
Skin contact: May cause skin irritation.
The full effects of HBCD on human health are not fully determined. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has not classified HBCD in terms of carcinogenicity.
At normal background levels, HBCD exposure is unlikely to cause adverse effects. However, recent studies have suggested potential links to reproductive, developmental, and neurological impacts, with children at greater risk due to their smaller body size and higher exposure potential.
Safety
First Aid Measures
Eye contact: Remove contact lenses if present. Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
Skin contact: Wash skin with plenty of water. Remove contaminated clothing and footwear. Wash before reuse. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. Loosen tight clothing. Provide oxygen if breathing is difficult. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Ingestion: Induce vomiting by sticking a finger in the throat. Lower the head so that the vomit will not re-enter the mouth and throat. Loosen tight clothing such as a collar, tie, belt or waistband. If the victim is not breathing, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Examine the lips and mouth to ascertain whether the tissues are damaged, a possible indication that the toxic material was ingested; the absence of such signs, however, is not conclusive.
Exposure Controls and Personal Protection
Engineering Controls
Use process enclosures, local exhaust, or other engineering measures to keep airborne levels below recommended limits.
Ventilation should be used if dust, fumes, or mists are generated.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Splash goggles
Laboratory coat
Dust respirator (MSHA/NIOSH approved or equivalent)
Gloves (chemical resistant)
Protective boots
Suggested PPE may not be sufficient in all cases; consult a safety specialist before handling HBCD.
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