BFR's are the main type of retardant in use today. Their main use is in plastics used in electronic and electrical goods. They protect both the plastic housing as well as the wiring and circuit boards. BFR's are also added to synthetic fabrics and foams used for clothing and furniture. They are used in the construction industry to reduce the risk of insulation materials catching fire. Worldwide, about 250,000 tonnes of BFR's are used each year.

When materials such as plastics are heated, they decompose and produce flammable gases at their surface. BFR's combine with these flammable products and effectively neutralise them. This reduces the chance of a fire starting and, if the temperature increases, of the material reaching "flash over".

There are a range of different BFR's. These work more efficiently than other flame retardants and so can be used in smaller quantities. They are especially good for use with plastics as they do not effect the physical properties of the polymer.

Click here for some specific BFR's and their uses.