PBB

Chemistry.

1. any of the highly toxic and possibly carcinogenic aromatic compounds consisting of two benzene rings in which bromine takes the place of two or more hydrogen atoms: used as a fire retardant and additive for plastics.

Word History and Origins

Origin of PBB¹

p(oly)b(rominated) b(iphenyl)

Example Sentences

But now the renewed presence of rightwing groups in the city has some fearing the fresh violence will continue, especially because activists say the PBB has a record of not intervening to prevent rightwing violence.

From The Guardian

Application of PBB and similar chemicals as flame retardants began in earnest after the Flammable Fabrics Act was amended in 1967.

From Salon

This is why people are especially likely to be exposed to dangerous flame retardant chemicals when they are indoors, or touching older couches that may have foam padding that is likely to have been treated with PBB-153 or similar chemicals.

From Salon

In an incident known as "Cattlegate," a flame retardant known as FireMaster that contained PBB-153 was accidentally sent to state grain mills in Michigan and eventually entered the local food supply.

From Salon

Experts believe that as many as 6.5 million Michiganders were exposed to PBB-153 as a result of this incident, and scientists have hypothesized that illnesses such as cancers, skin discoloration, joint pain, headaches and dizziness resulted from it.

From Salon