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Project Code [2014-RE-MS-2]
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Project title
Identification and Treatment Options for Waste Streams of Certain Bromine Containing Flame Retardants (WAFER)
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University of Birmingham
Lead Applicant
Stuart Harrad
Project Abstract
This proposal addresses the requirements of proposal #3 as outlined in the EPA 2014 Sustainability Call, viz �Identification and treatment options for waste streams containing certain flame-retardant chemicals including Construction & Demolition wastes containing Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment, waste upholstery and End of Life Vehicle foams containing Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)�. Using appropriate samples of articles from target waste streams from waste treatment sites in Galway County, we will evaluate the utility of portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) instruments as a tool for evaluating whether the PBDE and HBCD content of waste articles comply with regulatory limits. This will be achieved by comparing XRF measurements of bromine with conventional chromatographic/mass spectrometric measurements of PBDEs and HBCDs. We will also conduct a desktop evaluation of the options available for sustainable treatment of waste streams containing PBDEs and HBCDs in excess of regulatory limits. This project will effect knowledge transfer to Ireland and build research capacity in the subject area, by training a PhD student in aspects of the environmental chemistry of brominated flame retardants, including advanced techniques for their measurement. Expected outputs from the project are as follows: Two peer-reviewed publications; Presentations at scientific conferences; Reports to the EPA; Articles in trade magazines; Leaflet explaining in clear non-technical language how portable XRF may be used by waste site operatives to monitor compliance of waste articles with regulatory limits for PBDEs and HBCD; Dissemination workshop.
Grant Approved
�348,834.16
Research Hub
Green and Circular Economy
Research Theme
Resource efficiency
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/02/2017