Hexabromocyclododecane

Hexabromocyclododecane (CAS 3194-55-6), commonly abbreviated as HBCD, is an additive brominated flame retardant used primarily in thermoplastic and foam-based materials.

Where is Hexabromocyclododecane used?

• Building and construction: incorporated into insulation boards
• Expanded and extruded polystyrene (EPS/XPS) boards meet fire performance requirements for walls, roofs, and facades
• Electronics: housings and enclosures
• Textile back-coating formulations for upholstery, curtains, and technical fabrics
• Packaging foams and plastic components where ignition resistance is a requirement
• It functions by interrupting combustion cycles, reducing flammability in finished products to meet fire safety standards.

Good to know: HBCD is listed under the Stockholm Convention as a persistent organic pollutant; its use is restricted or banned in many jurisdictions, so sourcing and application compliance must be confirmed against current regional regulations before procurement.

Commercial specifications

• Technical grade, purity typically specified at 97% or higher