ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
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Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

CAS ID #: 67774-32-7, 1163-19-5, 32534-81-9

Affected Organ Systems: Endocrine (Glands and Hormones)

Cancer Classification: None

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Dioxins, Furans, PCBs (contain phenyl rings of carbon atoms)

Summary: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame-retardant chemicals that are added to plastics and foam products to make them difficult to burn. There are different kinds of PBDEs; soµme have only a few bromine atoms attached, while some have as many as ten broµmine attached to the central molecule. PBDEs exist as mixtures of similar chemicals called congeners. Because they are mixed into plastics and foams rather than bound to them, PBDEs can leave the products that contain them and enter the environment.

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