PBDF and PBDD from the combustion of bromine containing flame retarded polymers: A survey

The formation of polybrominated dibenzofurans (PBDF) and dibenzodioxins (PBDD) during the pyrolysis of different polymers containing brominated organic flame retardants was investigated. The pyrolyses were conducted at two different temperatures (600°C and 800°C) using three different oven configurations. Both the pyrolysis gases and the solid residues were analysed for PBDF and PBDD.

PBDF were found in almost all samples, but both the concentration and the degree of bromination varied greatly. The largest yields of PBDF in the percent range were measured in the pyrolysis products of polymers containing brominated diphenyl ethers. The other flame retardants generally yielded only a few ppm of PBDF. PBDD are formed only in a few samples and related to the PBDF in very low concentrations.