Ethylene Dibromide
Synonyms: 1,2-Dibromoethane, EDB
CAS Number: 106-93-4
Sources of exposure:
Historical fumigant applications, contaminated groundwater, soil, industrial emissions
Description:
Ethylene dibromide, also known as 1,2-dibromoethane, is a halogenated organic compound formerly used as a soil and agricultural fumigant and as an additive in leaded gasoline. It has also been used as a chemical intermediate in industrial manufacturing. Potential exposure today is primarily associated with contaminated groundwater, soil, and historical industrial releases.
Health concerns:
Cancer
Known or suspected to increase cancer risk in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity
May alter hormone function and harm reproduction.
Developmental Toxicity
May impact fetal development and birth outcomes.
Genotoxicity
May cause mutations or damage DNA in cells.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Irritant
May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Ecotoxicity
May be toxic to ecosystems and wildlife.
Banned/restricted lists:
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II - Prohibited
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - cancer
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - developmental
- male
- Rotterdam Convention - Annex III - Prior Informed Consent (PIC) - Pesticide
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox). California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List.