Intertek laboratories analyze client samples for the detection and measurement of polybrominated chemicals in polymers, plastics and composites. The polybrominate analysis laboratories handle routine and non-routine projects requiring multiple skill sets and combinations of analytical capabilities. Chemical analysis laboratory locations are located on a global basis. Polybrominated chemical testing is conducted by experienced chemists using state-of-the-art instrumentation.

EU requirements under the RoHS/WEEE compliance regulation ban the use of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs, deca-PDBE) and additional chemicals. Intertek laboratories test client products for trace levels of these banned substances as part of the RoHS compliance and other regulatory processes.

Three of the most widely used mixtures in consumer products are deca-BDE, octa-BDE, tetra-BDE and penta-BDE. Intertek can test and analyze samples for all of these compounds.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are bromine-based compounds. Primary usage for PBDE chemicals are for flame retardants in plastic and foam consumer products, including electronic and electrical items. Over 200 PBDE compounds are in use, often occuring in mixtures. Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) are also bromine based compounds, used for similar applications as PBDEs, but have been banned in most nations since the 1970's.