2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether
[CAS# 62601-60-9]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Ether compounds and their derivatives
• Name: 2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether
• Synonyms: BDE-99; POC-OS 2020
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₅Br₅O
• Molecular Weight: 564.69
• CAS Registry Number: 62601-60-9
• SMILES: C1(=CC(=C(C=C1OC2=C(C=C(C=C2)Br)Br)Br)Br)Br

Properties

• Solubility: 2.4 μg/L (water)^* (Expl.)
• Density: 2.28 g/mL^** (Expl.)
• Melting point: 93 ºC^*** (Expl.)

^* Stenzel, JI; Markley, BJ. (1997) Pentabromodiphenyl oxide (PeBDPO): determination of the water solubility. Prepared by Wildlife International Ltd., Easton, MD, for the Chemical Manufacturers Association�s Brominated Flame Retardant Industry Panel, Arlington, VA ; Project Number: 439C-109. Unpublished study.
^**Flemming, A; Moller, LM; Madsen, T. (2000) Brominated flame retardants: toxicity and ecotoxicity. Danish Environmental Protection Agency, Denmark; Environmental Project No. 568
^***Palm, A; Cousins, IT; Mackay, D; et al. (2002) Assessing the environmental fate of chemicals of emerging concern: a case study of the polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Environ Pollut 117:195�213.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: Solubility|0.0024 mg/L (water)^* (Expl.);Density|2.28 g/mL^** (Expl.);Melting point|93 $degree$C^*** (Expl.)

Discovory and Applicatios

2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether, commonly referred to as pentabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE), is a brominated flame retardant that belongs to a class of chemicals known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers. These compounds are characterized by the presence of bromine atoms attached to a diphenyl ether backbone. PBDEs, including 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether, have been widely used for their flame-retardant properties, particularly in the manufacture of various consumer products such as textiles, electronics, and furniture.

The discovery of PBDEs dates back to the mid-20th century when the need for flame retardants in consumer goods became more prominent. The development of PBDEs was aimed at reducing the flammability of materials used in everyday products. These compounds were found to effectively inhibit combustion and slow the spread of fire in materials such as plastics, textiles, and foams. As a result, they were incorporated into a variety of household and industrial products, including electronics, automotive interiors, and upholstered furniture.

2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether, in particular, has been used as a flame retardant in the production of polystyrene foams, textiles, and polyurethane products. Its high bromine content makes it an effective agent in suppressing the ignition of combustible materials, particularly in consumer goods that are susceptible to fire hazards. This compound has been part of a group of chemicals that are often added during the manufacturing process to enhance fire safety.

However, over the years, concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of PBDEs, including 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether, have emerged. Research has shown that these substances can persist in the environment, leading to their accumulation in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. PBDEs are known to be bioaccumulative, meaning they tend to build up in the tissues of living organisms, including humans. Studies have indicated that these compounds can be found in air, water, and soil, as well as in the blood and tissues of both wildlife and humans.

Furthermore, there is growing concern about the potential toxicological effects of PBDEs. Some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to these chemicals may be linked to various health problems, including endocrine disruption, developmental delays, and neurobehavioral changes. As a result, regulatory bodies in many countries, including the European Union and the United States, have imposed stricter regulations on the use of PBDEs in consumer products. In some regions, certain PBDEs, including 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether, have been banned or phased out due to their persistent and hazardous nature.

In response to these concerns, manufacturers have been exploring alternative flame retardants that are less persistent and less toxic. As a result, the use of PBDEs, including 2,2',4,4',5-pentabromodiphenyl ether, has declined in recent years, with many industries shifting to newer, safer flame retardant chemicals. Nevertheless, PBDEs continue to be a subject of study in environmental science and toxicology, as researchers work to understand their long-term effects and develop strategies for mitigating their impact on human health and the environment.

In summary, 2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether is a brominated flame retardant that has been widely used in the production of consumer products to reduce flammability. While it has proven effective in enhancing fire safety, concerns over its environmental persistence and potential health risks have led to increasing regulatory scrutiny and a shift toward alternative flame retardants.