Enhancing Trilateral Understanding of Flame Retardants and Their Use in Manufactured Items
Phase I - Supply Chain Analysis of Select Flame Retardants Contained in Manufactured Items Used in Indoor Environment
Enhancing Trilateral Understanding of Flame Retardants and Their Use in Manufactured Items
Phase I - Supply Chain Analysis of Select Flame Retardants Contained in Manufactured Items Used in Indoor Environment
Description
Flame retardants are chemical compounds that exhibit properties that prevent or delay the development of flames in items manufactured for use in indoor settings. These chemical compounds can either chemically react or physically bind to the components of manufactured items, such as plastics, textiles, and coatings—which pose a risk of spreading flames.
This study evaluates the availability of information for 46 flame retardants of interest to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) of North America and presents publicly-available supply chain information for 16 targeted flame retardants, including available information on the global and North American drivers of flame retardants, the prevalence of these flame retardants in respective markets, and existing regulations that affect their use in manufactured items. This study also provides a more in-depth view of the North American polyurethane foam industry—from the use of flame retardants in polyurethane foam manufacturing, to incorporation of the foam into manufactured items marketed for commercial and consumer use, and ultimately, to the end-of-life management of the foam, particularly in upholstered furniture.
Additional Information