While there is uncertainty associated with the hazard profiles of diethyl bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-aminomethylphosphonate, the oligomeric ethyl ethylene phosphate, and the oligomeric phosphonate polyol, due to heavy reliance on analog or modeled data (especially for the two oligomers)--yielding conservative Moderate designations for several human health endpoints, they may be the most preferable out of all the chemicals assessed in this report. Of these three chemicals, the most preferable may be the oligomeric phosphonate polyol, which has Low to Moderate aquatic toxicity, Moderate persistence, and Low bioaccumulation potential. Human health and aquatic toxicity designations are Low or Moderate for this chemical. Also, the oligomeric phosphonate polyol is a component of the polyurethane foam, and as such may have no potential for release from the foam during product use. The combination of Low to Moderate hazard designations and its reaction into the polyurethane foam make oligomeric phosphonate polyol an alternative anticipated to be safer for use in upholstered polyurethane foam, when flame retardants are added to make the end-use product meet flammability standards.
Two proprietary mixtures that are new to the market were also reviewed. EPA knows the chemical identification, but cannot reveal it in this report due to regulations regarding confidential business information. The two mixtures have one or more components with highest hazards for aquatic toxicity, and the potential to bioaccumulate.