Tetrabromobisphenol A（TBBPA）

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), known as octabromodiphenyl ether, is now a common t bromine flame retardant. It has attracted attention of World Greenpeace in the early 2003, when the committee submitted nineteen electronic samples to TNO Lab in Netherlands for tests, involving TV sets, mobile phones and OC. The committee chose the PC products from world???s top three manufacturers: HP, IBM and Dell of which HP. As a result brominated flame retardants contained in computer Pavilion250NL from HP company were more than the same kinds from the other two companies and Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBA) content was up to 20% weight of plastic components which was the highest among PC test samples.

Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) is a kind of flame retardant with high level of bromine and has the advantage of flame-retardant efficiency, wide uses and sometimes without use of antimony synergist. Its low filling has minimal impact on the polymer to ensure polymeric excellence. HBCDD is widely used after PBB and PBDE are restricted. Although HBCDD is excellent in flame retardancy, it will do potential and long-term harm to mankind and environment. International Environmental Organization has included HBCDD on the list of "on Persistent Organic Pollutants Stockholm Convention" (POPs); Countries around the world, especially developed countries, are in conscious control of HBCDD production and emission.

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), as common bromine flame retardants, their pollution is obvious, enduring and easy to accumulate in human body. There are three main hazards: First of all, long-term exposure to brominated flame retardants hinders brain and bone development; Secondly, its incineration will release brominated dioxins and furans, which can easily cause cancer; Thirdly, it endangers hormonal system.

It has been confirmed that 96% of PC boards contain TBBPA, content of which is about 1 ~ 2%. As a flame retardant, Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) is also widely used in plastic products. However, in modern society advocating green and health, polluted bromine flame retardants have been prohibited by Directives. Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) in Norway POHS Directive were limited precisely.