Recycling Plastics from WEEE: A Review of the Environmental and Human Health Challenges Associated with Brominated Flame Retardants

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Bruce McLean¹  Jim McNulty²  Cecilia Chaine²  Brian McMahon²  Iain McLellan³  Evi Viza³  Andrew S. Hursthouse³  Jan Miller⁴ 

[1] CCL (North) Ltd., Meadowhead Industrial Estate, Irvine KA115AU, UK;Restructa Ltd., North Newmoor Industrial Estate, Irvine KA11 4JU, UK;School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley PA1 2BE, UK;School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley PA1 2BE, UK;

关键词: WEEE;    brominated flame retardants (BFR);    electrical and electronic equipment;    waste;    WEEE plastics;   

DOI  :  10.3390/ijerph19020766

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) presents the dual characteristic of containing both hazardous substances and valuable recoverable materials. Mainly found in WEEE plastics, brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a component of particular interest. Several actions have been taken worldwide to regulate their use and disposal, however, in countries where no regulation is in place, the recovery of highly valuable materials has promoted the development of informal treatment facilities, with serious consequences for the environment and the health of the workers and communities involved. Hence, in this review we examine a wide spectrum of aspects related to WEEE plastic management. A search of legislation and the literature was made to determine the current legal framework by region/country. Additionally, we focused on identifying the most relevant methods of existing industrial processes for determining BFRs and their challenges. BFR occurrence and substitution by novel BFRs (NBFRs) was reviewed. An emphasis was given to review the health and environmental impacts associated with BFR/NBFR presence in waste, consumer products, and WEEE recycling facilities. Knowledge and research gaps of this topic were highlighted. Finally, the discussion on current trends and proposals to attend to this relevant issue were outlined.

【 授权许可】

Unknown