Decabromodiphenyl Oxide (Deca-BDE) CAS No.: 1163-19-5

1. Overview

Deca-BDE is a white to off-white powder that was historically the most widely used brominated flame retardant (BFR), particularly in high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) for electronics enclosures. It contains 83% bromine, providing highly efficient flame retardancy. Due to environmental persistence and toxicity concerns, it is now banned or heavily restricted globally under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) .

2. Key Features

• Very high bromine content (~83%) – high flame retardant efficiency

• Thermally stable – withstands high-temperature processing (300–315°C)

• Excellent compatibility with HIPS, ABS, PBT, nylon, polyolefins

• Good UV stability – minimal yellowing

• Cost-effective – lower cost than many alternative FRs

• Does not melt – decomposes at ~300°C

3. Key Specifications

4. Applications (Historical – Now Restricted/Banned)

Typical Formulations (Historical Reference):

• HIPS (UL 94 V-2 or V-0) : 12–15% Deca-BDE + 4–5% Sb₂O₃ synergist

• ABS : 15–18% Deca-BDE + 5–6% Sb₂O₃

• PBT : 10–12% Deca-BDE + 3–5% Sb₂O₃

5. Grade/Type Comparison

6. Buying Guide

1. Critical Regulatory Check (Before Purchase):

• Stockholm Convention – Deca-BDE listed as a POP (restricted globally)

• EU – Banned in electronics (RoHS 2019/2021); limited exemptions expired

• US – Restrictions under TSCA; several states banned (Maine, Washington, Vermont)

• China – Restricted under RoHS-like regulations

• Acceptable uses (very limited): Some aviation/aerospace, military, or legacy equipment repair (specific exemptions required)

• Environmentally persistent brominated FR → Not recommended; use non-halogen alternatives

• HIPS/ABS (UL 94 V-0) → Use decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) – similar performance, not a POP

• PBT/nylon → Use brominated polystyrene (BPS) or aluminum diethylphosphinate

• Polyolefins → Use magnesium hydroxide or ATH (non-halogen)

• Deca-BDE is NOT recommended for new formulations. Use these alternatives instead:

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area (avoid >50°C)

• Keep containers tightly sealed – hygroscopic

• Avoid dust generation (respiratory hazard)

• Shelf life: 24+ months

• Toxic to aquatic life – H410 (Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects)

• Use PPE (dust mask, gloves, goggles) – avoid inhalation

7. FAQ

Q: Is Deca-BDE still available for purchase?

• A: Yes, but with restrictions. It is still produced for exempted uses (e.g., aviation, military) and for research/analytical reference. Most commercial applications are banned. Verify your local regulations before ordering.

Q: Why is Deca-BDE banned?

• A: It is a Persistent Organic Pollutant (POP) – does not degrade in the environment, travels long distances, accumulates in wildlife and humans, and is toxic to reproduction and development .

8. Delivery & Service

• Packaging: 25kg bag (multi-wall paper with PE liner), 500kg bulk bag

• Lead time: Stock: 5–10 days (subject to export restrictions)

• Documentation: CoA (bromine content, particle size, purity), MSDS, TDS

• Certifications: ISO 9001 (varies by supplier)

• Restricted Shipping: UN3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s.), Class 9. Requires hazardous documentation. Many freight carriers may refuse.