2,4,5,2',4',5'-Hexabromobiphenyl

Synonyms

1,1'-Biphenyl, 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexabromo-; 2,2',4,4',5,5'-Hexabromobiphenyl; 2,2',4,4',5,5'-Hexabromo-1,1'-biphenyl; Hexabromobiphenyl; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Other Plasticizers

Description

White solid; [HSDB]

Sources/Uses

Used as a fire retardant for ABS plastics, coatings, lacquers, and polyurethane foams; Hexabromobiphenyl is resistant to degradation in the environment. It was a major constituent of Firemaster BP-6 and Firemaster FF-1 used in plastic components in televisions and computers. Commercial production and use ceased in the US in 1974; [HSDB]

Comments

No increased cancer deaths were found in a group of 3500 workers exposed to polybrominated biphenyls from 1935 to 1976 in a chemical plant. Cattle feed was contaminated with hexabromobiphenyl in 1973; it was used by farmer in Michigan from 1973-1974. Polybrominated biphenyls are possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). [IARC] Evidence of hepatotoxicity, neuromuscular dysfunction, reproductive toxicity, and liver tumors in high-dose animal studies; [HSDB] PBBs can cause chloracne and liver toxicity to workers exposed to high doses absorbed through the skin or by inhalation. [ATSDR ToxFAQs] See "Polybrominated biphenyls."

Biomedical References

Yes

5.2E-08 mm Hg

Biological half-life in guinea pigs = 22 days; Estimated body burden t1/2 in man = 6.5 years; [HSDB]

Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Yes

Chloracne

Possible (2b)

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Chloracne

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides)