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BFRs (brominated flame retardants)
Description:
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are used to slow the spread of fire in upholstered furniture, mattresses, curtains, carpets and electronics. BFRs contain PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), a group of chemicals that are highly persistent and bioaccumulative; they are suspected hormone disruptors and can cause cancer reproductive and developmental disorders. PBDEs are suspected of having particularly damaging effects on the thyroid (which controls brain development), and as a result, PBDEs may cause neurodevelopmental disorders such as learning disabilities and behaviour problems. PBDEs leach from products, and have been detected in house dust, human blood and breast milk.
More Links Description:
Many brominated chemicals are coming under increasing criticism in their use in household furnishings and where children would come into contact with them..... Increasing concern has prompted some European countries to ban some of them, following the precautionary principle more common in Europe.
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