Thermal degradation of a brominated bisphenol a derivative

M.P. Luda, A.I. Balabanovich, A. Hornung, G. Camino

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The thermal degradation of 2,6,2',6'-tetrabromo-4,4-pm-isoproylidene-di phenol (tetrabromobisphenol A) (TBBPA) has been investigated and a mechanism for its thermal degradation is suggested. TBBPA is a comonomer widely used in epoxy and in unsaturated polyester resins to impart fire retardance. These resins find a common use in electric and electronic equipment. The presence of bromine atoms is the key factor in fire retardant activity, while on the other hand it represents an ecological problem when pyrolytic recycling is programmed at the end of the useful life of such items. However, pyrolysis is the more advantageous recycling system for thermosetting resins and thus efforts should be made to control the pyrolysis in order to avoid or minimize the development of toxics. Homolytic scission of the aromatic bromine and condensation of aromatic bromine with phenolic hydroxyl are the main processes occuring in the range 270-340°C. A large amount of charred residue is left as a consequence of condensation reactions. HBr and brominated phenols and bisphenols are the main volatile products formed. Brominated dibenzodioxins structures are included in the charred residue and not evolved in the volatile phases.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)741-748
Number of pages8
JournalPolymers for Advanced Technologies
Volume14
Issue number11-12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2003

Keywords

  • flame retardance
  • halogenated additives
  • pyrolsis
  • TBBPA
  • thermal degradation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Thermal degradation of a brominated bisphenol a derivative'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this