브롬화 난연제 함유 제품 및 폐기물의 국내외 규제 및 처리현황 연구

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) including PBDEs, TBBPA, and HBCD have been used in a variety of products such as automobiles, electronic products, building materials, and textiles. Because some of BFRs are known to be toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative in the environment, they have a great potential and possibility of human exposure and the environmental release through the use, treatment and disposal of products containing BFRs. Although there have been various efforts on laws and regulations of the restriction on the use of BFRs in many countries, only limited information regarding the levels, flow, treatment technology and regulations of products and wastes containing BFRs is available. In this study, the levels, current regulations and treatment guideline on products and wastes containing BFRs in electronics, automotives, construction materials, and textiles have been examined and summarized. Relative high levels of BFRs in TVs, construction materials and end-of-life vehicles were found, while textiles contained less amounts of BFRs. According to the study, more strengthened regulations are currently underway around the world. Thus, more limited use of BFRs such as deca-BDE in products and wastes is expected. Other chemicals such as TBBPA and HBCD are being evaluated for toxicity and risk assessment. Specific regulatory guideline of BFRs containing products after use (e.g. collection, separation, treatment) should be developed to prevent the widespread dispersion in the environment and human exposure of such chemicals as a result of improper disposal such as incineration and landfilling.