Norway Investigation Highlights Persistent Concerns Over Flame Retardant EBTBP

The Norwegian Environment Agency has concluded an extensive evaluation of N,N'-ethylenebis(3,4,5,6-tetrabromophthalimide) (EBTBP), a flame retardant extensively used in industrial and consumer products. Despite its effectiveness, concerns remain over its potential environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and exposure risks for workers and consumers, as indicated by a recent report.

Key Insights

Scope of Evaluation

The Norwegian Environment Agency led the evaluation under the Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP). EBTBP was prioritised due to suspected PBT/vPvB properties, wide dispersive uses, and potential risks to both workers and consumers. The substance's persistent presence in the environment raised significant concerns, necessitating detailed analysis.

Findings: Environmental and Toxicological Risks

1. Environmental Impact: EBTBP's high hydrophobicity and low solubility contribute to its accumulation in soils and sediments. Modelling data indicate the potential formation of degradation products with persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) properties. However, definitive conclusions are pending further simulation tests.

2. Bioaccumulation Potential: Experimental bioaccumulation studies showed low water solubility challenges, yet flagged concerns due to high log Kow values, suggesting a risk of biomagnification in certain ecosystems.

3. Human Exposure: Occupational exposure during production and recycling, as well as consumer contact through electronic and construction materials, was highlighted. The substance’s inclusion in textiles and automotive components adds to the potential for widespread human exposure.

Regulatory Outcomes

Pending Actions

Data Collection:
- Long-term degradation simulation and bioaccumulation studies.
- Identification of degradation products to evaluate toxicity.
Potential Classifications:
- EBTBP remains unclassified under EU harmonised classification, though new data could prompt re-evaluation.

Regulatory Gaps

‍The absence of data on endocrine-disrupting properties and a lack of chronic toxicity studies underscore the need for continued vigilance.

While no immediate regulatory action is planned, the ECHA's findings highlight the necessity for further data to ensure EBTBP does not pose long-term ecological or human health risks. Future evaluations will hinge on the results of ongoing simulation studies, expected by 2027.