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Simple Summary: The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is a popular visitor in gardens and recreational areas all over Europe, but hedgehog populations are declining. Research exploring the causes of the decline, including exposure to potentially harmful pollutants and metals, may provide relevant information to improve conservation initiatives to protect this species in the wild. Hedgehogs are ground-dwelling mammals, feeding on a range of different food items such as insects, slugs, snails, and earthworms but also eggs, live vertebrates, and carrion, and therefore come into close contact with pollutants present in their habitats and in their prey. This review investigated published research on the occurrence of metals and pollutants in hedgehogs and found that a vast range of different pesticides; rodenticides; persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine compounds and brominated flame retardants (BFRs); as well as toxic heavy metals could be detected in samples from hedgehogs representing different European countries. Due to their ecology, combined with the opportunity to apply non-invasive sampling techniques through the collection of spines as sampling material, we suggest that the European hedgehog is a relevant bioindicator species for monitoring the exposure of omnivorous terrestrial wildlife to potential toxicants in urban and rural environments. Monitoring data from several European countries indicate that European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) populations are declining, and research exploring the causes of the decline, including exposure to potentially harmful xenobiotics and metals, may inform conservation initiatives to protect this species in the wild. Hedgehogs are ground-dwelling mammals, feeding on a range of insects, slugs, snails, and earthworms, as well as eggs, live vertebrates, and carrion, including carcasses of apex predator species representing higher levels of the food chain. Consequently, hedgehogs come into close contact with contaminants present in their habitats and prey. This review investigated the studies available on the subject of the occurrence of metals and organic xenobiotics in hedgehogs. This study found that a vast range of different pesticides; persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine compounds and brominated flame retardants (BFRs); as well as toxic heavy metals could be detected. Some compounds occurred in lethal concentrations, and some were associated with a potential adverse effect on hedgehog health and survival. Due to their ecology, combined with the opportunity to apply non-invasive sampling techniques using spines as sampling material, we suggest that the European hedgehog is a relevant bioindicator species for monitoring the exposure of terrestrial wildlife to potential toxicants in urban and rural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the increased risk of high heat release and asphyxiation (toxic gas poisoning) in the event of a fire involving polyurethane (PU)- and MDF-based building materials, which are commonly used in buildings. Among them, polyurethane (PU) building materials are very commonly used in buildings, except in Europe and some other countries, due to their excellent thermal insulation performance. Still, problems of short-term heat release and the spread of toxic gases in the event of a fire continue to occur. To overcome these problems, researchers are actively working on introducing various flame retardants into building materials. Therefore, in this study, we produced a laboratory-sized (500 mm × 500 mm) plate-like flame-retardant board that can be utilized as a building material with a lower heat release rate and a lower toxicity index. The material was made by mixing expanded graphite and ceramic binder as flame retardants in a material that is formulated based on the cellulose of waste paper, replacing the existing building materials with a hot-press method. According to the ISO-5660-1 test on the heat release rate of the plate-like flame-retardant board, the Total Heat Release (THR) value was 2.9 (MJ/m2) for 10 min, showing an effect of reducing the THR value by 36.3 (MJ/m2) compared to the THR value of 39.2 (MJ/m2) of the specimen made using only paper. In addition, the toxicity index of the flame-retardant board was checked through the NES (Naval Engineering Standards)-713 test. As a result, the test specimen showed a toxicity index of 0.7, which is 2.4 lower than the toxicity index of 3.1 of MDF, which is utilized as a conventional building material. Based on the results of this study, the cellulose fire-retardant board showed the effect of reducing the heat release rate and toxicity index of building materials in a building fire, which reduces the risk of rapid heat spread and smoke toxicity. This has the potential to improve the evacuation time (A-SET) of evacuees in fires. It is also important to show that recycling waste paper and utilizing it as the main material for building materials can be an alternative in terms of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Airtankers are able to drop volumes of liquid (suppressant or fire retardant) varying from less than 1 m3 to several tens of cubic metres directly on a fire or with the objective to form barriers of retardant to stop or reduce fire propagation. Aims: The objective of this work is to demonstrate that Computational Fluid Dynamics can be used to provide a deep understanding of liquid fragmentation and dispersion when liquid is dropped from an aircraft. Methods: A numerical investigation based on the Volume of Fluid method is used for the analysis of airtanker performance and applied here to the biggest airtankers used in Europe: the Canadair CL-415 and Dash-8. Key results: Numerical simulations are used to provide an accurate description of tank discharge as well as to study liquid ejection, fragmentation and atomisation in air. From the results, the vertical penetration and lateral expansion of the liquid are described using simple modelling. Conclusions: From the numerical simulation, the main characteristics of liquid atomisation and dispersion in air are described and modelled. Implications: Computational Fluid Dynamics is an efficient tool that may help to optimise airtanker performance. A numerical investigation of liquid (water and retardant) drop from Canadair CL-415 and Dash-8 airtankers is presented. Numerical simulations are reported for the tank discharge as well as for the description of the liquid cloud, characterised by vertical penetration of the liquid, its lateral expansion and the process of atomisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human biomonitoring (HBM) data in Europe are often fragmented and collected in different EU countries and sampling periods. Exposure levels for children and adult women in Europe were evaluated over time. For the period 2000–2010, literature and aggregated data were collected in a harmonized way across studies. Between 2011–2012, biobanked samples from the DEMOCOPHES project were used. For 2014–2021, HBM data were generated within the HBM4EU Aligned Studies. Time patterns on internal exposure were evaluated visually and statistically using the 50th and 90th percentiles (P50/P90) for phthalates/DINCH and organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) in children (5–12 years), and cadmium, bisphenols and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in women (24–52 years). Restricted phthalate metabolites show decreasing patterns for children. Phthalate substitute, DINCH, shows a non-significant increasing pattern. For OPFRs, no trends were statistically significant. For women, BPA shows a clear decreasing pattern, while substitutes BPF and BPS show an increasing pattern coinciding with the BPA restrictions introduced. No clear patterns are observed for PAHs or cadmium. Although the causal relations were not studied as such, exposure levels to chemicals restricted at EU level visually decreased, while the levels for some of their substitutes increased. The results support policy efficacy monitoring and the policy-supportive role played by HBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) is a non-aromatic compound belonging to the bromine flame retardant family and is a known persistent organic pollutant (POP). This compound accumulates easily in the environment and has a high half-life in water. With a variety of uses, the HBCD is found in house dust, electronics, insulation, and construction. There are several isomers and the most studied are α-, β-, and γ-HBCD. Initially used as a substitute for other flame retardants, the polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), the discovery of its role as a POP made HBCD use and manufacturing restricted in Europe and other countries. The adverse effects on the environment and human health have been piling, either as a result from its accumulation or considering its power as an endocrine disruptor (ED). Furthermore, it has also been proven that it has detrimental effects on the neuronal system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system, liver, and the reproductive system. HBCD has also been linked to cytokine production, DNA damage, increased cell apoptosis, increased oxidative stress, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Therefore, this review aims to compile the most recent studies regarding the negative effects of this compound on the environment and human health, describing the possible mechanisms by which this compound acts and its possible toxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of flame‐retarded polypropylene is carried out with the ultimate goal of obtaining a UL94‐V0 not only halogen‐ but also phosphorus‐free formulation because phosphate rocks, precursors of phosphorus‐based flame retardants, are recognized as critical raw materials within Europe. Different flame retardants (FRs) (melamine, phosphate ester, and radical generator) are used. A statistical approach is applied to predict UL94 behavior and develop optimized formulations in terms of cost, filler or phosphorus content. Models for most common "nondripping" as well as "nonflaming dripping" UL94‐V0 behavior are proposed. The experimental validation has shown the reliability of the models proposed and their usefulness to assist and speed up the development of optimized formulations. The use of the models also gives insight into the interactions between flame retardants, thus suggesting if potential synergies take place, before studying the FRs system in details. Indeed, synergies between melamine and phosphate ester as well as melamine and radical generator are discovered. Thanks to these synergies that V0 rating can be achieved. A UL94‐V0 formulation, comprising melamine and radical generator, is identified as the optimal halogen‐ and phosphorus‐free formulation with a reduced filler content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certification in agriculture ensures compliance with tangible standards and should generate economic opportunities for farmers. This study quantifies the variable profit and efficiency impacts of organic certification in dairy farming across Europe, using farm-level FADN data from 25 countries while accounting for heterogeneity through a class splitting model. Four distinct classes with dairy farm enterprises operating under similar production conditions were identified in order to assess gross margin and efficiency differences among certified and non-certified farms. Depending on the nature of the selection bias, treatment effects were estimated either through an endogenous treatment model or through entropy balancing. The results suggest that organic certification increases gross margins for dairy farm enterprises in Europe, while slightly increasing technical efficiency in two out of four classes. These significant effects of certification on efficiency were estimated at 2% and 7%, respectively. As regards variable profit, effects range from to 66 Euros per cow to 234 euros per cow. In relative terms, this implies gains between 38% and 50% for farms classified into more cool or temperate zones and a gain of up to 182% for the farms assigned to the class that designates warmer climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging arbovirus in Europe that has been increasingly identified in asymptomatic humans and donated blood samples and is a cause of increased incidents of neuroinvasive human disease. Treatment or prevention options for USUV disease are currently nonexistent, the result of a lack of understanding of the fundamental elements of USUV pathogenesis. Here, we report two structures of the mature USUV virus, determined at a resolution of 2.4 Å, using single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy. Mature USUV is an icosahedral shell of 180 copies of envelope (E) and membrane (M) proteins arranged in the classic herringbone pattern. However, unlike previous reports of flavivirus structures, we observe virus subpopulations and differences in the fusion loop disulfide bond. Presence of a second, unique E glycosylation site could elucidate host interactions, contributing to the broad USUV tissue tropism. The structures provide a basis for exploring USUV interactions with glycosaminoglycans and lectins, the role of the RGD motif as a receptor, and the inability of West Nile virus therapeutic antibody E16 to neutralize the mature USUV strain SAAR-1776. Finally, we identify three lipid binding sites and predict key residues that likely participate in virus stability and flexibility during membrane fusion. Our findings provide a framework for the development of USUV therapeutics and expand the current knowledge base of flavivirus biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: "Combustion behavior of upholstered furniture (CBUF) ‐ Fire Safety of Upholstered Furniture ‐ EUR 16477 EN" was initiated by the European Commission (EC) since a major contributor to fire deaths in Europe was upholstered furniture. The EC and the participating research partners formulated this project to provide a scientifically sound basis for a European Union Directive. The aim of the directive was to improve fire safety in Europe as well as removing barriers to trade and creating a harmonized open market for upholstered furniture. The furniture directive never came through, but the project reached a significant understanding of how furniture burns, how furniture composition affects the heat release rate, and how well or poorly different models predict full‐scale test results and the developing hazard to people. The results were published as a book and presentations were made at several conferences. This article is a summary of some of the important findings in the CBUF project. It presents guidance for the design of low flammability upholstered furniture and the extent to which small‐scale test results can be used to predict room fire behavior. It presents test procedures and experimental data. However, much of the work that has been conducted is not presented in this article. In particular, background data and reasoning are omitted or reduced in favor of the results and conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The regulation requirements for upholstered furniture are nationally defined and lead to very different safety levels across Europe. This paper studies the fire performance of upholstered furniture across Europe and demonstrates the differences in the fire safety of sofas in different countries. Real sofas were purchased over Europe and tested first alone then for several of them in a room scenario. The fire performance of such upholstered furniture is related to their constitution and possibly to the improvement of their performance by physical and/or chemical means. Results are presented from a performance point of view and not focusing on the different technical solutions that can be envisaged, such as fire barriers or flame retardants. The results clearly show the effect of stricter regulations, not necessarily on the maximum heat release but mainly on the time available to escape, which is critical in many fire scenarios. Such regulations may have a positive effect, but they have to be performance‐based, evaluated properly, and implemented considering market surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 10 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 19 alternative halogenated flame retardants (AFRs) were determined in > 450 human milk samples across three European countries, representing northern, western and eastern Europe. This study provides first insights into the occurrence of selected AFRs in mother milk samples and compares them among three European countries. Sums of median concentrations of the most frequently detected PBDEs were 2.16, 0.88 and 0.45 ng g −1 lipid weight (lw) in Norway, the Netherlands and Slovakia, respectively. The sum of the concentrations of AFRs ranged from 0.14 to 0.25 ng g −1 lw in all countries, which was 2 to 15 times less compared to Σ 7 PBDEs. The Penta-BDE replacement, bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate, BEH-TEBP, was present at the greatest concentrations of any of the AFRs and in some samples exceeded concentrations of BDE 47 and BDE 153. Four AFRs including bromobenzenes (hexabromobenzene, pentabromobenzene, pentabromotoluene) and another Penta-BDE replacement (2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate, EH-TBB) were detected in > 42% of all human milk samples. Because of the potential developmental neurotoxicity of the halogenated flame retardants, infant dietary intakes via breastfeeding were estimated; in four cases the intakes of BDE 47 exceeded the reference dose indicating that the present concentrations may pose a risk for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Women of reproductive age can be exposed to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) at work, and exposure to EDCs in pregnancy may affect fetal growth. Objectives: We assessed whether maternal occupational exposure to EDCs during pregnancy as classified by application of a job exposure matrix was associated with birth weight, term low birth weight (LBW), length of gestation, and preterm delivery. Methods: Using individual participant data from 133,957 mother -- child pairs in 13 European cohorts spanning births from 1994 through 2011, we linked maternal job titles with exposure to 10 EDC groups as assessed through a job exposure matrix. For each group, we combined the two levels of exposure categories (possible and probable) and compared birth outcomes with the unexposed group (exposure unlikely). We performed meta-analyses of cohort-specific estimates. Results: Eleven percent of pregnant women were classified as exposed to EDCs at work during pregnancy, based on job title. Classification of exposure to one or more EDC group was associated with an increased risk of term LBW [odds ratio (OR) = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.49], as were most specific EDC groups; this association was consistent across cohorts. Further, the risk increased with increasing number of EDC groups (OR = 2.11; 95% CI: 1.10, 4.06 for exposure to four or more EDC groups). There were few associations (p < 0.05) with the other outcomes; women holding job titles classified as exposed to bisphenol A or brominated flame retardants were at higher risk for longer length of gestation. Conclusion: Results from our large population-based birth cohort design indicate that employment during pregnancy in occupations classified as possibly or probably exposed to EDCs was associated with an increased risk of term LBW. Citation: Birks L, Casas M, Garcia AM, Alexander J, Barros H, Bergstrom A, Bonde JP, Burdorf A, Costet N, Danileviciute A, Eggesbo M, Fernandez MF, Gonzalez-Galarzo MC, Gražulevičienė R, Hanke W, Jaddoe V, Kogevinas M, Kull I, Lertxundi A, Melaki V, Andersen AM, Olea N, Polanska K, Rusconi F, Santa-Marina L, Santos AC, Vrijkotte T, Zugna D, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Cordier S, Vrijheid M. 2016. Occupational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and birth weight and length of gestation: a European meta-analysis. Environ Health Perspect 124:1785-1793; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP208 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to screen for the presence of a recycled polymer waste stream from waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE), a market survey was conducted on black plastic food-contact articles (FCA). An analytical method was applied combining X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) with thermal desorption gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (thermal desorption GC-MS). Firstly, XRF spectrometry was applied to distinguish bromine-positive samples. Secondly, bromine-positive samples were submitted for identification by thermal desorption GC-MS. Generally, the bromine-positive samples contained mainly technical decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE). Newer types of BFRs such as tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), tetrabromobisphenol Abis(2,3-dibromopropyl), ether (TBBPA-BDBPE) and decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE), replacing the polybrominated diphenyleters (PBDEs) and polybrominated diphenyls (PBBs), were also identified. In none of the tested samples were PBBs or hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) found. Polymer identification was carried out using Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy measurement (FTIR) on all samples. The results indicate that polypropylene–polyethylene copolymers (PP-PE) and mainly styrene-based food-contact materials, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) have the highest risk of containing BFRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Since the ban on some brominated flame retardants (BFRs), phosphorus flame retardants (PFRs), which were responsible for 20% of the flame retardant (FR) consumption in 2006 in Europe, are often proposed as alternatives for BFRs. PFRs can be divided in three main groups, inorganic, organic and halogen containing PFRs. Most of the PFRs have a mechanism of action in the solid phase of burning materials (char formation), but some may also be active in the gas phase. Some PFRs are reactive FRs, which means they are chemically bound to a polymer, whereas others are additive and mixed into the polymer. The focus of this report is limited to the PFRs mentioned in the literature as potential substitutes for BFRs. The physico-chemical properties, applications and production volumes of PFRs are given. Non-halogenated PFRs are often used as plasticisers as well. Limited information is available on the occurrence of PFRs in the environment. For triphenyl phosphate (TPhP), tricresylphosphate (TCP), tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP), tris(chloropropyl)phosphate (TCPP), tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP), and tetrekis(2-chlorethyl)dichloroisopentyldiphosphate (V6) a number of studies have been performed on their occurrence in air, water and sediment, but limited data were found on their occurrence in biota. Concentrations found for these PFRs in air were up to 47μgm−3, in sediment levels up to 24mgkg−1 were found, and in surface water concentrations up to 379ngL−1. In all these matrices TCPP was dominant. Concentrations found in dust were up to 67mgkg−1, with TDCPP being the dominant PFR. PFR concentrations reported were often higher than polybrominated diphenylether (PBDE) concentrations, and the human exposure due to PFR concentrations in indoor air appears to be higher than exposure due to PBDE concentrations in indoor air. Only the Cl-containing PFRs are carcinogenic. Other negative human health effects were found for Cl-containing PFRs as well as for TCP, which suggest that those PFRs would not be suitable alternatives for BFRs. TPhP, diphenylcresylphosphate (DCP) and TCP would not be suitable alternatives either, because they are considered to be toxic to (aquatic) organisms. Diethylphosphinic acid is, just like TCEP, considered to be very persistent. From an environmental perspective, resorcinol-bis(diphenylphosphate) (RDP), bisphenol-A diphenyl phosphate (BADP) and melamine polyphosphate, may be suitable good substitutes for BFRs. Information on PFR analysis in air, water and sediment is limited to TCEP, TCPP, TPhP, TCP and some other organophosphate esters. For air sampling passive samplers have been used as well as solid phase extraction (SPE) membranes, SPE cartridges, and solid phase micro-extraction (SPME). For extraction of PFRs from water SPE is recommended, because this method gives good recoveries (67–105%) and acceptable relative standard deviations (RSDs) (<20%), and offers the option of on-line coupling with a detection system. For the extraction of PFRs from sediment microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) is recommended. The recoveries (78–105%) and RSDs (3–8%) are good and the method is faster and requires less solvent compared to other methods. For the final instrumental analysis of PFRs, gas chromatography–flame photometric detection (GC–FPD), GC-nitrogen–phosphorus detection (NPD), GC–atomic emission detection (AED), GC–mass spectrometry (MS) as well as liquid chromatography (LC)–MS/MS and GC–Inductively-coupled plasma–MS (ICP–MS) are used. GC–ICP–MS is a promising method, because it provides much less complex chromatograms while offering the same recoveries and limits of detection (LOD) (instrumental LOD is 5–10ngmL−1) compared to GC–NPD and GC–MS, which are frequently used methods for PFR analysis. GC–MS offers a higher selectivity than GC–NPD and the possibility of using isotopically labeled compounds for quantification. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of brominated flame retardants used extensively in an array of textiles and plastics. Initially viewed as inert and nontoxic, in recent years an emerging body of science has cast doubt on this perception. Consequently, the compounds have drawn sustained government, media, and lobby group focus in the United States and Europe, yet have taken contrasting trajectories in different risk regulation regimes. We present a longitudinal analysis of these pathways, examining the actions of legislatures, executives, courts, scientists, and pressure groups. We show that the emergence and resolution of PBDEs as a risk issue was strongly shaped by path dependency, political entrainment (inter-institutional conflict unrelated to PBDEs), and partisan lawmaking. This raises the question of whether risk-based principles are capable of being the foundation on which managing the potential for harm can be based-even when that harm is associated with specific objects like flame-retardant chemicals. We conclude by reflecting on the difficult normative issues that are raised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The brominated flame retardant decabromodiphenylether (DBDE) was analysed in wild birds to identify the most suitable species for monitoring time trends in DBDE contamination. This information was later used for the design of a 10-year trend study on DBDE in the European Union. DBDE was measured in muscle tissue, liver, and eggs from 10 terrestrial and four aquatic bird species. DBDE was detected in 47% of the terrestrial bird samples (nine species) and in 9% of the aquatic bird samples (six species). Peregrine falcon and sparrowhawk specimens were selected as most suitable species to determine temporal trends of DBDE. For sparrowhawks, no significant change in DBDE concentrations between 1973 and 2001 was found, although in later years more DBDE concentrations were above the detection limit. Peak DBDE levels measured in peregrines in 1995, were followed by a decline in concentrations until 2001. The same species were used for a trend study on hexabromocylcododecane (HBCD). Twenty-four percent of peregrine falcon eggs and 12% of sparrowhawk muscle samples demonstrated measurable HBCD residues. Three diastereomers of HBCD were analysed and the α-diastereomer was the predominant one in most samples. No clear time trends were observed for HBCD in either species. This study demonstrated that these DBDE and HBCD are bioavailable to birds of Northern Europe, although bioaccumulation seems to occur to a limited extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As a consequence of substantial, long-term usage, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have contaminated humans, wildlife, and abiotic matrices around the world. Although several reports have reviewed PBDE contamination in general, none have focused specifically on birds. Birds have long been recognized as invaluable monitoring species for organohalogen contamination. This review summarizes most available PBDE data in birds and emphasizes several specific aspects, i.e., inter-regional differences in PBDE contamination, the extent of BDE-209 contamination, differences in congener composition patterns between piscivorous and terrestrial-feeding birds, trophic biomagnification and temporal changes in PBDE contamination. A meta-analysis of PBDE congener profiles reveals distinctly different patterns between birds utilizing terrestrial and aquatic food webs. Terrestrial-feeding birds appear to exhibit heightened Deca-BDE contamination. Inter-regional comparisons reveal elevated PBDE burdens in North American aquatic birds compared to those from the rest of the world, likely related to greater Penta-BDE demand there. Examination of North American and Chinese terrestrial birds also exhibited some of the highest BDE-209 concentrations ever reported in wildlife, and suggested that urban environments in general and some commercial activities (e.g., electronic recycling) may increase exposure of wildlife and humans to Deca-BDE. Summaries of temporal trend studies suggest that varying usage histories and regulations have influenced PBDE contamination patterns at different regions. As a consequence of continued usage of Deca-BDE around the world, significant increases in BDE-209 burdens have been observed in both North American and European birds. Examination of both wild and laboratory-exposed birds also indicated potential degradation of BDE-209 to less brominated, but more bioavailable/toxic congeners. Therefore, it would be wise to reduce releases of Deca-BDE, the only PBDE formulation remaining in production, to the environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The originality of this review is to evaluate the risks and benefits induced by the use of flame retardants in upholstered furniture in continental Europe, throughout an assessment of the risks over the whole life cycle. This paper examines the currently available literature on the various risks linked to the use of flame retardants in upholstered furniture in the continental European market: [•] Risk linked to the exposure of workers to flame retardants during manufacture. [•] Risk of exposure to flame retardants in dwelling houses under normal living conditions, which mainly results in inhalation of accumulated flame retardants released in the interior air and/or in migration of substances as well as contamination by skin contact. [•] Risk of emission of toxic gases when manufactured products are recycled. [•] Risk of aggravated emissions of toxic gases in the case of accidental fires caused by cigarettes or matches on upholstered furniture, whether it is flame retarded or not. The CBUF program, as well as studies from the LNE and a European research program, has studied the emission and level of acute toxicants (CO, CO2, NO x , HCl, HBr, HCN, SO2) released by selected flame-retarded or not upholstered furniture during fire. A methodology has been proposed to estimate the risks and benefits of flame retardants used in upholstered furniture, within the life cycle risk assessment. For common flame retardants, data sheets have been written in order to evaluate the complete risk balance. This concerns the long-term impact on health of exposure to products containing flame retardants, as well as from exposure to their fire effluents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new class of synthetic organoclays based on layered double hydroxides (LDH) has been developed that offers improved flame retardancy, gas barrier and mechanical properties. In addition, other advantages are compliance with the European regulations for materials coming in contact with foodstuffs and its higher temperature stability compared to most organoclays. Haimo Tonnaer of AkzoNobel Polymer Chemicals describes recent developments with Perkalite synthetic organoclays. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The brominated flame retardant hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) is extensively used in Europe, but data on the environmental concentrations of this chemical are scarce. A first screening has been performed concerning the environmental occurrence of HBCD in Sweden, a country where the chemical is not produced and the current industrial use is very limited. Possible emission sources were identified through a systematic analysis of the use in a life cycle perspective. In addition to a few point sources, diffuse emissions from polymeric products are possible. Measurements have been performed close to certain possible point sources, in the urban environment and in remote regions, and included air, deposition, water, soil, sediments, sludge, biota and foodstuffs. HBCD was detected in all media analysed and in all environments. The relatively high concentrations detected in herring and foodstuffs provide evidence for bioaccumulation of HBCD. The presence of HBCD in remote background air implies that HBCD has potential for long-range atmospheric transport. There are also some indications that diffuse emissions of HBCD occur in the urban environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Over the past 15 years, halogen free, fire retardant cable systems have gained a large market volume. Systems fulfilling the European norm IEC 60332-3 have become an acceptable part of cable makers technology. Developments in the raw materials field, in compound formulation and polymer processing techniques have led to significant reductions in the production costs of compounds and cables. The development of raw materials, leading to improved compound properties is an ongoing process. Cost reductions of existing compound formulations and cable systems as well as the development of new cable systems showing the highest levels of fire security is the driving force. Dr. Reiner Sauerwein of Nabaltec GmbH describes recent developments in the area of fine precipitated aluminium hydroxide/alumina trihydrate — the most important flame retardant filler used to produce fire retardant cable systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU) is coordinating and advancing human biomonitoring (HBM). For this purpose, a network of laboratories delivering reliable analytical data on human exposure is fundamental. The analytical comparability and accuracy of laboratories analysing flame retardants (FRs) in serum and urine were investigated by a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) scheme comprising interlaboratory comparison investigations (ICIs) and external quality assurance schemes (EQUASs). This paper presents the evaluation process and discusses the results of four ICI/EQUAS rounds performed from 2018 to 2020 for the determination of ten halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) represented by three congeners of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDE-47, BDE-153 and BDE-209), two isomers of hexabromocyclododecane (α-HBCD and γ-HBCD), two dechloranes (anti-DP and syn-DP), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE), and 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in serum, and four metabolites of organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) in urine, at two concentration levels. The number of satisfactory results reported by laboratories increased during the four rounds. In the case of HFRs, the scope of the participating laboratories varied substantially (from two to ten) and in most cases did not cover the entire target spectrum of chemicals. The highest participation rate was reached for BDE-47 and BDE-153. The majority of participants achieved more than 70% satisfactory results for these two compounds over all rounds. For other HFRs, the percentage of successful laboratories varied from 44 to 100%. The evaluation of TBBPA, DBDPE, and 2,4,6-TBP was not possible because the number of participating laboratories was too small. Only seven laboratories participated in the ICI/EQUAS scheme for OPFR metabolites and five of them were successful for at least two biomarkers. Nevertheless, the evaluation of laboratory performance using Z-scores in the first three rounds required an alternative approach compared to HFRs because of the small number of participants and the high variability of experts' results. The obtained results within the ICI/EQUAS programme showed a significant core network of comparable European laboratories for HBM of BDE-47, BDE-153, BDE-209, α-HBCD, γ-HBCD, anti-DP, and syn-DP. On the other hand, the data revealed a critically low analytical capacity in Europe for HBM of TBBPA, DBDPE, and 2,4,6-TBP as well as for the OPFR biomarkers. • The HBM4EU QA/QC programme showed the state of play in FR biomonitoring in Europe. • Four rounds of ICI/EQUAS were performed for ten HFRs and four OPFRs biomarkers. • The highest number of successful laboratories was for BDE-47 and BDE-153. • The analytical capacity for HBM of OPFR biomarkers was lower than for HFRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of the Human Biomonitoring for Europe (HBM4EU) initiative a human biomonitoring (HBM) survey is conducted in 21 countries. This survey builds on existing HBM capacity in Europe by aligning national or regional HBM studies. The survey targets 3 age groups (i) children aged 6-11 years, (ii) teenagers aged 12-19 years and (iii) young adults aged 20-39 years and includes a total of 9493 participants (3151 children, 2953 teenagers and 3389 young adults). Depending on the age group, internal exposure to phthalates and substitute Hexamoll® DINCH, brominated and organophosphorus flame retardants, per-/poly-fluorinated compounds, cadmium, bisphenols and/or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are assessed. The main goal of the programme is to obtain quality controlled and comparable HBM data of exposure to chemicals, prioritized under HBM4EU, with European wide coverage to inform the development of environment and health policies. This paper describes the framework of the HBM4EU survey and the approach that has been applied to align European HBM initiatives across Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the ban of many historically-used flame retardants (FRs), numerous replacement chemicals have been produced and used in products, with some being identified as environmental contaminants. One of these replacement flame retardants is 1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)-cyclohexane (DBE-DBCH; formerly abbreviated as TBECH), which to date has not been identified for risk assessment and potential regulation. DBE-DBCH technical mixtures consist largely of α- and β-diastereomers with trace amounts of γ- and δ-DBE-DBCH. The α- and β-isomers are known contaminants in various environmental media. While current global use and production volumes of DBE-DBCH are unknown, recent studies identified that DBE-DBCH concentrations were among the highest of the measured bromine-based FRs in indoor and urban air in Europe. Yet our mass balance fugacity model and modeling of the physical-chemical properties of DBE-DBCH estimated only 1% partitioning to air with a half-life of 2.2 d atmospherically. In contrast, our modeling characterized DBE-DBCH adsorbing strongly to suspended particulates in the water column (~12%), settling onto sediment (2.5%) with minimal volatilization, but with most partitioning and adsorbing strongly to soil (~85%) with negligible volatilization and slow biodegradation. Our modeling further predicted that organisms would be exposed to DBE-DBCH through partitioning from the dissolved aquatic phase, soil, and by diet, and given its estimated log K ow (5.24) and a half-life of 1.7 d in fish, DBE-DBCH is expected to bioaccumulate into lipophilic tissues. Low concentrations of DBE-DBCH are commonly measured in biota and humans, possibly because evidence suggests rapid metabolism. Yet toxicological effects are evident at low exposure concentrations: DBE-DBCH is a proven endocrine disruptor of sex and thyroid hormone pathways, with in vivo toxic effects on reproductive, metabolic, and other endpoints. The objectives of this review are to identify the current state of knowledge concerning DBE-DBCH through an evaluation of its persistence, potential for bioaccumulation, and characterization of its toxicity, while identifying areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical installations are a significant component of fire load inside a building, although they are often neglected in the overall fire safety analysis and are not subjected to any kind of fire safety evaluation of a building. A typical electrical installation unconnected to the mains was experimentally studied using a single burning item (SBI) test apparatus, fixed to two types of popular non-combustible or combustible (wooden-based) backgrounds simulating a typical building internal wall or ceiling. The semi-real scale test showed that poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) cable, commonly used in installations in buildings in Europe and used in SBI tests, showed high fire properties related to heat release, smoke production and flame spread to other interior elements. The results of the electrical circuit connected to the main measurements carried out showed a significant impact of the heating effect towards the uncovered surface socket, causing the possibility of easy ignition inside the installation. In conclusion, it was found that even a relatively simple and short section of electrical installation resulted in a significant increase in the heat release rate and smoke generation parameters, obtained during the SBI tests, and as a consequence a reduction of one or two reaction to fire euroclasses of construction materials for internal walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To further strengthen the position of its proprietary Anox® NDB® non-dust stabilizer blends in the European marketplace, polymer additives major Chemtura Corp has formed a long-term strategic agreement with Belgium''s Katoen Natie Group (KTN). This project, which is part of Chemtura''s antioxidant and UV stabilizer growth strategy, will combine its proprietary technology with KTN''s centralized distribution location and world-class service. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Plastic baby Bibs are, according to the European legislation, food contact materials. Therefore, compositional and migration limits applicable to plastics should be observed. This work aimed at identifying potential migrants in Bibs from European market and determining the migration into artificial saliva. Bibs were subjected to screening analyses (GC-MS). Thirty substances non-authorised in European or Swiss legislation were detected: phthalates, light stabilizers, flame retardants and photoinitiators. Irgacure 184, Cyclohexanone, Tinuvin 770, Isophorone and 9-Octadecenamide, (Z)- were detected in saliva after contact with selected Bibs. The migration values render two samples noncompliant although results should be interpreted with caution given the experimental conditions. In order to gain insight on the toxicity of migrants, QSAR tools were applied. Substances non-evaluated or not-listed were analysed with free software regarding their Cramer class ToxTree and their predicted mutagenicity, carcinogenicity and developmental toxicity (VEGA). Results indicate that surveillance is required: monitoring Bibs'compliance, application of GMPs and traceability. • Baby Bibs from Europe were screened for potential migrants. • Migration into saliva render two samples non-compliant. • Thirty substances non-authorised in European or Swiss legislation were detected. • These include phthalates, light stabilizers, flame retardants and photoinitiators. • Monitoring Bibs compliance, industry GMPs and traceability are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Launched in Europe in 2004, VECAP, the Voluntary Emission Control Action Programme administered by BSEF, is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year and has marked the occasion with the launch of a new Code of Best Practices. VECAP aims to reduce the potential emissions from brominated flame retardants (BFRs) by promoting environmental good practices among producers and downstream users of these polymer additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Flame Retardant Association (EFRA) has released its latest annual VECAP progress report covering the year 2017. VECAP, the Voluntary Emissions Control Action Programme, is a product stewardship initiative that aims to reduce potential emissions of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) during production and end use by promoting environmental best practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Commission has granted temporary authorizations to 13 companies in Europe for two applications of the brominated flame retardant chemical hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD). The flame retardant is a candidate for authorization under the EC's REACH regulation. The review period of the authorizations will expire on 21 August 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on issues pertaining to directives that define environmental policy in the manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment sold in Europe. Regulations are expected to require manufacturers to communicate up and down their supply chains to document and register chemical makeup of their products. European governments will continue to implement directives that ban heavy metals and certain flame retardants from electrical and electronic products.

Chemical manufacturer SI Group (Schenectady, NY, USA) and Hamburg-based raw materials distribution and sales specialist Velox have signed an agreement for the distribution of dicumene across Europe, except in Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potential emissions from brominated flame retardant manufacturing sites and downstream user plants in Europe were significantly reduced in 2009, thanks to voluntary industry initiative, the Voluntary Emissions Control Action Programme (VECAP). Now in its fifth year of existence, the programme continues to grow significantly both in participation and geographical coverage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The brominated flame retardant (BFR) industry recently released its third Annual Report on the Voluntary Emissions Control Action Programme (VECAP). Among other key findings, the report indicates that around 90% of packaging residues of BFRs are now effectively controlled in Europe, via regulated and controlled disposal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]