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Question from Michelle W

Hi Debra,

I recently contacted a small furniture company to ask about the toxicity of the materials they use. Here’s part of their reply:

“The inner liner is made of a Polyester (92%) / Spandex (8%) blend. Likewise, they contain no known latex content. However, they are treated with a flame retardant called Pyrovatex SVC. This material is not known to cause allergic reactions or contain latex derivatives and is non toxic.”

I tried to look up the MSDS for the Pyrovatex flame retardant, but the website seems to be down (and has been for at least a week.) Do you know anything about this flame retardant or how they can claim it is nontoxic?

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

Pyrovatex is a trade name for Phosphonic acid, (2-((hydroxymethyl)carbamoyl)ethyl)-, dimethyl ester

Phosphonic acid is an organophosphorus compound. There are many types of phosphorates, including Gyphosate (“Roundup”).

Here is an MSDS for Phosphoric Acid

It says it’s 98% phosphorous acid.

There is no toxicity information given, however, it is hazardous by burning the skin and is harmful if swallowed. Inhalation can cause chemical burns to the respiratory tract.

That’s how they can say it’s nontoxic.

It doesn’t appear to be volatile, so if you are not inhaling it as a powder, it would be not toxic.

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