polybrominated diphenyl ether

chemical compound

Also known as: PBDE

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are synthetic halogenated compounds used as flame retardants in various products like electronics, foams, plastics, and textiles. They are a type of endocrine disruptor, meaning they can interfere with the normal functions of hormones in the body.1

PBDEs can accumulate in body tissues and move up food chains. Studies have shown that exposure to PBDEs can alter thyroid hormone activity, potentially leading to neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Research has detected PBDEs in human breast milk and in wild animals, prompting bans on certain forms of PBDEs in the European Union.12

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biomonitoring
Studies and surveillance programs
…that human milk levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), chemicals used as flame retardants in many consumer products, had doubled every five years. Other studies detected these chemicals in breast milk from women in Japan, Germany, the United States, and Canada, as well as in killer whales and polar bears…
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…that human milk levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), chemicals used as flame retardants in many consumer products, had doubled every five years. Other studies detected these chemicals in breast milk from women in Japan, Germany, the United States, and Canada, as well as in killer whales and polar bears…
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microplastics
Properties
Other chemicals, such as phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), are typically also present in microplastics, and many of these chemical additives leach out of the plastics after entering the environment.
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Other chemicals, such as phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), are typically also present in microplastics, and many of these chemical additives leach out of the plastics after entering the environment.
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plastic pollution
Pollution by plastics additives
bisphenol A (BPA), and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), have come under close scrutiny and regulation. Phthalates are plasticizers—softeners used to make plastic products less brittle. They are found in medical devices, food packaging, automobile upholstery, flooring materials, and computers as well as in pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and cosmetics. BPA, used…
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bisphenol A (BPA), and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), have come under close scrutiny and regulation. Phthalates are plasticizers—softeners used to make plastic products less brittle. They are found in medical devices, food packaging, automobile upholstery, flooring materials, and computers as well as in pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and cosmetics. BPA, used…
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