DBDPE (brominated FR) designated SVHC
ECHA has decided to identify the brominated flame retardant DBDPE as Substance of Very High Concern because of its very persistent and very bioaccumulative properties (vPvB). The decision was taken by ECHA’s Member States Committee (MSC). DBDPE was then added to the Candidate List (Annex XV of REACH) by ECHA on 5th November 2025. The brominated flame retardant DBDPE was introduced in the 1990’s as a drop-in substitute for the chemically very similar brominated flame retardant “DecaBDE” (Decabromodiphenyl ethane to replace decabromodiphenyl ether) and has been cited in the ECHA Flame Retardants Strategy as an example of ‘Regrettable Substitution’ (see pinfa Newsletter n°147). Other jurisdictions are also engaging regulatory actions on DBDPE (e.g. Canada, see pinfa Newsletter n°169)
“Highlights from ECHA's Member State Committee October meeting”, ECHA/NR/25/32, 9th October 2025, Item 8 - SVHC identification - Seeking agreement on Annex XV proposals for identification of SVHCs 1,1'-(ethane-1,2-diyl)bis[pentabromobenzene] (EC No 284-366-9) https://www.echa.europa.eu/-/highlights-from-echa-s-member-state-committee-october-meeting
“ECHA adds one hazardous chemical to the Candidate List”, 5th November 2025, ECHA/NR/25/35 https://echa.europa.eu/-/echa-adds-one-hazardous-chemical-to-the-candidate-list-2
