EU REACH update: DBDPE added to SVHC candidate list

November 2025 - Electrical and electronics, hardlines, softlines, toys and children's products

On 5 November 2025, one new entry, 1,1'-(ethane-1,2-diyl)bis[pentabromobenzene] (DBDPE), was added into the REACH Candidate List¹. This update brings the total number of substances of very high concern (SVHC) on Candidate List² from 250 to 251.

Back in July 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a public consultation to identify DBDPE as an SVHC. ECHA’s Member State Committee confirmed the addition of DBDPE to the list in its October meeting, because this substance has very persistent and very bioaccumulative properties and is used as a flame retardant in various industries. This identification will support the potential restriction work on brominated flame retardants. 

Typically, ECHA updates the SVHC Candidate List twice a year. However, 2025 gets an extra boost with this ad hoc update for DBDPE. Looking ahead, the three substances proposed for SVHC status in September 2025³ are on track to be added to the list by January 2026.

Table A gives the substance name, identification numbers (CAS and EC), the reason for inclusion and its potential applications.

Table A. Newly added SVHC to the Candidate List

 

Substance name	CAS number (EC number)	Reason for inclusion	Potential application
1,1'-(ethane-1,2-diyl)bis[pentabromobenzene] (DBDPE)	84852-53-9 (284-366-9)	vPvB (Article 57e)	Used as flame retardant; Used in coating and inks applications; Used in adhesives, sealants, fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay, lubricants and greases; Used in leather treatment products.

Note:

vPvB: very Persistent, very bioaccumulative

References:

[1] Press release from ECHA

[2] The official Candidate List

[3] TÜV SÜD E-ssentials - EU: REACH - Public consultation for the 34th update of Candidate List was launched

 

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