Brominated FR blooming test standard

Discussion of possible extension of the test standard for ‘blooming’ of brominated FRs (loss to material surface). The existing ASTM D8280 provides a standardised method for assessing how much of brominated flame retardants in a plastic have migrated to the surface. The test uses ion chromatography to compare brominated FRs on the surface after aging for 14 or 35 days at 70°C with initial condition (before ageing). Current discussions may extend this method to assess brominated flame retardants in dust.

Information from Marcelo Hirschler’s editorial in Fire Safety & Technology Bulletin (FS&TB) November 2025 (vol. 18, n°11) https://www.gbhint.com/firesafety-and-technology-bulletin/

ASTM D8280-20a “Standard Test Method for Determination of the Blooming of Brominated Flame Retardants onto the Surface of Plastic Materials by Ion Chromatography” https://store.astm.org/d8280-20a.html